The prospect of mingling again with those who openly delighted in sin must have been dreadful!
Ellen G. White used the term "perfectionism" in a manner similar to the way we would use it today, carrying negative connotations. All instances occurred before 1851. She was addressing the lingering effect of a surge of pseudo-sanctification that affected some believers soon after 1844. These individuals, having made immense sacrifices to meet with God, had come to believe they were incapable of sinning anymore.
Early Writings, p. 101.2 (Ellen Gould White): Here, EGW discussed the term "perfectionism" as a misguided belief in the context of certain individuals who have drifted into so-called perfectionism and Spiritualism.
Early Writings, p. 301.3 (Ellen Gould White): In this text, she addressed "perfectionism" in relation to early Adventists who, post-1844, lost their humble faith and veered into fanaticism.
Supplement to the Christian Experience and Views of Ellen G. White, p. 19.2 (Ellen Gould White): EGW seemed to have said here that fanaticism disgraces the individual and casts a negative light on the cause of truth. It further weakens the person even "after they may [] feel free from error."
Ellen G. White cautioned against "perfectionism" in a pastoral fashion, rebuking those who claimed to have attained or could attain perfection in the flesh. She argued that this kind of fanaticism debilitates believers rather than empowering them, rendering them vulnerable even after they have recovered.
Focusing too much on your personal and spiritual growth, as well as the sacrifices you have made, may lead you to feel superior to others. Some of the post-1844 Millerites who had maintained their faith in the Bible came to think in this way. They cannot sin, or so they thought. It also helped in easing their way back into a society that was now "unfit" and made fun of them.
DRH
