ATSS: Warren Trenchard, “Ellen White: Inspiration or Biblical Fiction?”
10 July 2024 |
Among the hundreds of published works by Ellen White, her writings on parts of the Bible are probably the best known and most beloved by those devoted to her work. Although she often wrote about biblical narratives, expositions, and religious materials in periodical articles and special-purpose manuscripts, she is most recognized in this regard for her books that explore large swaths of the Old and New Testaments. She published such books throughout her long career, starting with Spiritual Gifts, vol. 1 (1858), and concluding with Prophets and Kings, posthumously published in 1917. The earliest of these was very selective in its biblical topics; the subsequent volumes became increasingly more comprehensive. White’s biblical writings formed several trajectories of developing tradition over about 60 years, culminating in the five volumes of the “Conflict of the Ages” series.
One of these trajectories—likely the most highly regarded—is best represented by books that deal with the life and ministry of Jesus, from Spiritual Gifts, vol. 1, through The Spirit of Prophecy, vols. 2 and 3 (1877–1878), to The Desire of Ages in 1898.
This study examines The Desire of Ages, the final stage of Ellen White’s textual tradition on the life and ministry of Jesus, concentrating on one literary unit, the story of the transfiguration. It will study evidence in The Desire of Ages and its textual ancestors, raising questions particularly regarding The Desire of Ages, to determine if, and to what extent, this material departs from the biblical narratives and the type of literature it represents. After briefly reviewing a few other additional examples, the study will consider potential models for understanding White’s biblical writings.
Teacher:
Dr. Trenchard served as a member of the faculty and a senior administrator at what is what is now Burman University in Alberta, Canada, and at La Sierra University, for over thirty-five years. In retirement, he is professor of New Testament and early Christian literature. His principal teaching and research interests include New Testament Greek language; history, backgrounds, and interpretation of the New Testament and its individual documents; and history and literature of Early Christianity.
Moderator:
Linda Nottingham is a retired businesswoman living in Florida.
How to join:
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83473725509
Passcode: ELLENWHITE
ATSS starting time depends on where you are. If you’re on the west coast of the United States, it’ll be 10:30 AM. On the east coast, 1:30 PM. Times in Europe, Africa, and elsewhere will vary with local time changes. Please double-check the correct time where you live.
The class is intended to last about 2 hours, though the conversation often continues to 4 PM (Eastern time).
About our class:
- The AT Sabbath Seminar is intended to be a courteous forum.
- Stick to the topic in both comments and chat discussion.
- Make your comments and questions short—don’t dominate.
- Keep your microphones muted unless you are called upon to make your comment or ask your question.
- Indicate your interest in speaking by raising your electronic hand.
- Please use your name when you sign in, so we know who we’re addressing.
We look forward to getting acquainted with you!
YouTube channel:
You can see all of our previous ATSS recordings here.
