The Means Justifies the End

TimeWatch Editorial
January 27, 2016

If today you were to ask someone if the “end justifies the means,” there might only be a few who might say that it does. Most individuals would verbally agree that there are methods that are unacceptable, regardless of how well meaning the objectives might be. The problem of course arises when an actual situation presents itself. Are we still willing to maintain our verbal opinion when challenged by circumstances? Take Jacob, for instance, and his quest for the birthright which was promised him by God. If he and his mother were asked a hypothetical question regarding whether or not the “end justifies the means” it is likely that their reply would be “of course not.”

When, however, Jacob and Rebekah’s particular situation arose, I am sure that they both would have argued that, “this was God’s will” and in any case “Isaac was determined to bestow the birthright upon Esau, so, “we had to do something.” Still, Jacob’s actions were somewhat extreme, and clearly flawed. But what happens when the actions we take are in themselves quite legal and above board, but nevertheless, send the wrong message? How do we judge that? Some would say, we did nothing wrong, and in any case our actions have helped to further the Gospel. Believe it or not, there is just such an example that has so much to teach us.

In 1908 Elder S. N. Haskell, President of the California Conference, observing what seemed to him to be a minimum of interest of the publishers in endeavoring to supply Early Writings at a low, popular price, proposed that a privately-printed, pocket-size edition could be printed for 20 cents. This could be sold widely and given a good distribution, and at the same time bring Ellen G. White some financial relief. Her first reaction was favorable, but changed after receiving instruction in vision.

“I have received your letter, in which you speak of a plan for you to print and sell a large number of my book, Early Writings, brought out in a new style of binding.” {Manuscript Release, Vol 2, page 312.3}

“In the past I have given my consent to your suggestions regarding this matter, but recently I have received such positive instruction regarding the necessity of unity that I dare not give my consent to your proposition. {Manuscript Release, Vol 2, page 312.4}

Why would she object to this? What could possibly be wrong with finding a way to print the book more cheaply and spread the word, while lightening the load of debt that was being carried by Mrs. White? Here is the reason given.

“I would not wish to handle my books, nor to see you handle your books, in a manner that would seem to throw discredit upon the publishing houses. We must manifest wisdom in this matter. To carry out the plans you suggest would, to many, seem that we were taking advantage of circumstances to benefit ourselves. {Manuscript Release, Vol 2, page 313.1}

“In your office as president of this conference, the Lord would have you do everything possible to bring about a spirit of unity. Let the idea of unity be the keynote of all your actions. This instruction has been given me for you, that not one move must be made that will create feelings of discord. . . . {Manuscript Release, Vol 2, page 313.2}

What an amazingly important view of the concept of ‘the means justifying the end!” The printing of the books would be a laudable act. To find a cheaper way to do it, would be commendable. However, the appearance of greed and the unspoken evaluation of our publishing houses might leave a damaging impact upon our witness to the world. This is truly a step higher. In spite of the cost involved, she is making the point that unity is of greater value. Finally she cautions:

“You and I are being watched very critically. If we were to carry out plans that would create dissension, this might result in the loss of souls”. . . . {Manuscript Release, Vol 2, page 313.4}

Notwithstanding a lifetime of hard labor, I find that I am embarrassed with a heavy indebtedness. I do not at present receive from the sale of my books as much money as I need to carry on my work, and to meet the many calls for help that come to me. . . . {Manuscript Release, Vol 2, page 314.3}

Notwithstanding my great necessities, I would be unwilling to make any move that might appear to be unfair to our publishing houses. {Manuscript Release, Vol 2, page 314.4}

Not many today would share her view. But the ‘means’ must be properly evaluated long before the ‘end’ is achieved.

Cameron A. Bowen