Honesty with sources is not only academic accuracy, but also spiritual responsibility.<\/b> When someone asks for help finding a verified source for an English phrase, especially one often attributed to Ellen White, the most important thing is not to rush to call an unconfirmed text an \u201cexact quotation.\u201d If the phrase truly comes from a reliable source, it should be found word for word with context and a bibliographic reference. If not, it is more correct to call it a paraphrase of the idea.<\/p>\nWhy it is important to verify the exact source<\/h2>\n
In church circles, phrases often circulate that sound very convincing. They may be composed from several similar statements, shortened by editors of thematic compilations, or retold by preachers. Over time, such a paraphrase begins to be quoted as the original text. Verifying the source is needed not because of distrust of truth, but for faithfulness to the truth<\/i>.<\/p>\n \u201cTest all things; hold fast what is good.\u201d 1 Thess 5:21<\/a><\/cite><\/p><\/blockquote>\n This principle applies not only to teachings, but also to quotations. If we use a certain expression in a sermon or post, we should be sure that it truly exists in that form. Otherwise, we may unintentionally attribute to an author words he or she did not write.<\/p>\n Although the English phrase \u201cThe seal of the living God will be placed upon those only who bear a likeness to Christ in character\u201d<\/i> requires source verification, its meaning echoes several important biblical themes.<\/p>\n First, Scripture speaks about God\u2019s seal:<\/p>\n \u201cDo not harm the earth, the sea, or the trees till we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads.\u201d Rev 7:3<\/a><\/cite><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Also, in Ezekiel\u2019s vision, a mark is placed on those who grieve over the sins of the people (Ezek 9:4).<\/p>\n Second, the Bible emphasizes the need to become like Christ:<\/p>\n \u201cFor whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son.\u201d Rom 8:29<\/a><\/cite><\/p><\/blockquote>\n And in 1 John 3:2-3 we read that hope in Christ leads to a purified life. Believers are also sealed with the Holy Spirit:<\/p>\nBiblical ideas behind the phrase about the seal of God<\/h2>\n