A faithful translation of a spiritual text must convey not only the words, but also its biblical call to obey the light. The quoted passage, attributed to Ellen G. White, calls the church to carefully study God’s instructions, receive them with faith, and apply them in life.
Slovenian translation of the passage
Zaupano mi je bilo, da našim cerkvam sporočim: preučujte Pričevanja. Napisana so za naše opozorilo in spodbudo ter dana prav v času, ko se svet približuje svojemu koncu. Če Božje ljudstvo ne bo preučevalo sporočil, ki mu jih občasno pošilja, bo krivo zavračanja luči. Zapoved za zapovedjo, pravilo za pravilom, tu malo in tam malo — tako Bog pošilja navodila svojemu ljudstvu. Zato prisluhnite tem navodilom in sledite luči. Gospod se že dolgo spori s svojim ljudstvom, ker v preteklosti ljudje niso poslušali Njegovih navodil in niso sledili Njegovemu vodstvu. 3ИВ 358.2
In the translation, the title Testimonies is rendered as Pričevanja, that is, “Testimonies.” This is the natural Slovenian title for Ellen G. White’s works, known in English as Testimonies for the ChurchThe expression “precept upon precept, rule upon rule” is translated as “Zapoved za zapovedjo, pravilo za pravilom,” preserving the rhythm and biblical meaning of the original.
The biblical foundation of the expression
The phrase “here a little and there a little” echoes the book of the prophet Isaiah. It emphasizes that the Lord teaches His people progressively: He reveals truth clearly, gradually, and in a way that enables a person to grow in knowledge and obedience.
“For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept, line upon line, line upon line, here a little, there a little…” Isa 28:10
This principle does not justify a superficial reading of Holy Scripture. On the contrary, it invites us to compare biblical texts, prayerfully seek their context, and allow God’s Word to explain itself. The Seventh-day Adventist understanding of spiritual gifts also emphasizes that any prophetic testimony should be tested by the Bible, because Scripture itself is the highest standard of faith and life.
Light that must not be rejected
The passage contains a serious warning: inattention to God’s messages can become a rejection of the light. In the biblical sense, light is not merely new knowledge. It is truth that leads to repentance, changes character, teaches us to love God and our neighbor, and prepares a person to meet Christ.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Ps. 119:105
Ellen G. White repeatedly urged people not to replace the Bible with her writings. Their purpose is to direct attention to Scripture, help apply its principles, and warn God’s people in specific spiritual dangers. Therefore, truly receiving the light does not consist merely in reading books or quoting passages. It is revealed in humble obedience to Christ.
Why God’s people need instruction
The words that the Lord has “long been contending” with His people describe not God’s indifference, but His patient love. The Lord reproves, teaches, and calls people back precisely because He desires to save. In the Bible, God’s rebukes are often joined with an invitation to hear His voice and walk in His way.
“For whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives.” Heb 12:6
For the church of the last days, this is especially relevant. As they await the Second Coming of Jesus, believers are called not to fear or arguments, but to spiritual watchfulness. God’s counsel regarding family, health, ministry, church unity, and personal holiness should lead to mature Christian living.
How to apply this message practically
Begin with daily Bible reading, asking God to show you one truth for specific obedience. Then, if you read Ellen G. White’s writings, test their counsel by the biblical context and ask yourself: “What does the Lord want to change in my character and in my ministry?” Discuss what you read in the family or in a small group, but do so with gentleness, without condemning others.
Let this Slovenian translation become not only a rendering of the text into another language, but also a reminder: God gives His people light in order for them to walk in it. Receive this light through Scripture, pray for wisdom, and today take one concrete step of obedience to God’s guidance.
