Religious Liberty

The principle for which the disciples stood so fearlessly when, in answer to the command not to
speak any more in the name of Jesus, they declared, “Whether it be right in the sight of God to
hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye,” [Acts 4:19.] is the same that the adherents of
the gospel struggled to maintain in the days of the Reformation. When in 1529 the German
princes assembled at the Diet of Spires, there was presented the emperor's decree restricting
religious liberty, and prohibiting all further dissemination of the reformed doctrines. It seemed
that the hope of the world was about to be crushed out. Would the princes accept the decree?
Should the light of the gospel be shut out from the multitudes still in darkness? Mighty issues for
the world were at stake. Those who had accepted the reformed faith met together, and their
unanimous decision was, “Let us reject this decree. In matters of conscience the majority has no
power.” [D'Aubigne: “History of the Reformation,” Book 13, Chap. 5.]This principle we in our
day are firmly to maintain. The banner of truth and religious liberty held aloft by the founders of
the gospel church and by God's witnesses during the centuries that have passed since then, has, in
this last conflict, been committed to our hands. The responsibility for this great gift rests with
those whom God has blessed with a knowledge of His word. We are to receive this word as
supreme authority. We are to recognize human government as an ordinance of divine
appointment, and teach obedience to it as a sacred duty, within its legitimate sphere. But when its
claims conflict with the claims of God, we must obey God rather than men. God's word must be
recognized as above all human legislation. A “Thus saith the Lord” is not to be set aside for a
“Thus saith the church” or a “Thus saith the state.” The crown of Christ is to be lifted above the
diadems of earthly potentates.We are not required to defy authorities. Our words, whether
spoken or written, should be carefully considered, lest we place ourselves on record as uttering
that which would make us appear antagonistic to law and order. We are not to say or do anything
that would necessarily close up our way. We are to go forward in Christ's name, advocating the
truths committed to us. If we are forbidden by men to do this work, then we may say, as did the
apostles, “Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge
ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.” [Acts 4:19, 20.]—The
Acts of the Apostles, 68, 69.*****Luther's pen was a power, and his writings, scattered
broadcast, stirred the world. The same agencies are at our command, with facilities multiplied a
hundred-fold. Bibles, publications in many languages, setting forth the truth for this time, are at
our hand, and can be swiftly carried to all the world. We are to give the last warning of God to
men, and what should be our earnestness in studying the Bible, and our zeal in spreading the
light!—Testimonies for the Church 6:403.

Our Attitude in Regard to Politics

To the Teachers and Managers of our Schools,—Those who have charge of our institutions and
our schools should guard themselves diligently, lest by their words and sentiments they lead the
students into false paths. Those who teach the Bible in our churches and our schools are not at
liberty to unite in making apparent their prejudices for or against political men or measures,
because by so doing they stir up the minds of others, leading each to advocate his favorite theory.
There are among those professing to believe present truth, some who will thus be stirred up to
express their sentiments and political preferences, so that division will be brought into the
church.The Lord would have His people bury political questions. On these themes silence is
eloquence. Christ calls upon His followers to come into unity on the pure gospel principles
which are plainly revealed in the word of God. We cannot with safety vote for political parties;
for we do not know whom we are voting for. We cannot with safety take part in any political
scheme. We cannot labor to please men who will use their influence to repress religious liberty,
and to set in operation oppressive measures to lead or compel their fellow-men to keep Sunday
as the Sabbath. The first day of the week is not a day to be reverenced. It is a spurious sabbath,
and the members of the Lord's family cannot participate with the men who exalt this day, and
violate the law of God by trampling upon His Sabbath. The people of God are not to vote to
place such men in office; for when they do this, they are partakers with them of the sins which
they commit while in office.We are not to compromise principle by yielding to the opinions and
prejudices which we may have encouraged before we united with God's commandment-keeping
people. We have enlisted in the army of the Lord, and we are not to fight on the enemy's side, but
on the side of Christ, where we can be a united whole, in sentiment, in action, in spirit, in
fellowship. Those who are Christians indeed will be branches of the true vine, and will bear the
same fruit as the vine. They will act in harmony, in Christian fellowship. They will not wear
political badges, but the badge of Christ.What are we to do, then?—Let political questions alone.
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness
with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath
Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?” [2 Corinthians 6:14, 15.]
What can there be in common between these parties? There can be no fellowship, no
communion.The word “fellowship” means participation, partnership. God employs the strongest
figures to show that there should be no union between worldly parties and those who are seeking
the righteousness of Christ. What communion can there be between light and darkness, truth and
unrighteousness? None whatever. Light represents righteousness; darkness, unrighteousness.
Christians have come out of darkness into the light. They have put on Christ, and they wear the
badge of truth and obedience. They are governed by the elevated and holy principles which
Christ expressed in His life....Those teachers in the church or in the school who distinguish
themselves by their zeal in politics, should be relieved of their work and responsibilities without
delay; for the Lord will not co-operate with them. The tithe should not be used to pay any one for
speechifying on political questions. Every teacher, minister, or leader in our ranks who is stirred
with a desire to ventilate his opinions on political questions, should be converted by a belief in
the truth, or give up his work. His influence must tell as a laborer together with God in winning
souls to Christ, or his credentials must be taken from him. If he does not change, he will do
harm, and only harm....

“Be Ye Separate”

I call upon my brethren who are appointed to educate, to change their course of action. It is a
mistake for you to link your interests with any political party, to cast your vote with them or for
them. Those who stand as educators, as ministers, as laborers together with God in any line, have
no battles to fight in the political world. Their citizenship is in heaven. The Lord calls upon them
to stand as a separate and peculiar people. He would have no schisms in the body of believers.
His people are to possess the elements of reconciliation.Is it their work to make enemies in the
political world?—No, no. They are to stand as subjects of Christ's kingdom, bearing the banner
on which is inscribed, “The commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” They are to carry the
burden of a special work, a special message. We have a personal responsibility, and this is to be
revealed before the heavenly universe, before angels, and before men. God does not call upon us
to enlarge our influence by mingling with society, by linking up with men on political questions,
but by standing as individual parts of His great whole, with Christ as our head. Christ is our
Prince, and as His subjects we are to do the work appointed us by God....The question may be
asked, Are we to have no union whatever with the world? The word of the Lord is to be our
guide. Any connection with infidels and unbelievers that would identify us with them, is
forbidden by the Word. We are to come out from among them, and be separate. In no case are we
to link ourselves with them in their plans of work. But we are not to live reclusive lives. We are
to do worldlings all the good we possibly can.Christ has given us an example of this. When
invited to eat with publicans and sinners, He did not refuse; for in no other way than by mingling
with them could He reach this class. But on every occasion ...He opened up themes of
conversation which brought things of eternal interest to their minds. And He enjoins us, “Let
your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father
which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.]On the temperance question, take your position without
wavering. Be as firm as a rock. Be not partakers of other men's sins....There is a large vineyard to
be cultivated; but while Christians are to work among unbelievers, they are not to appear like
worldlings. They are not to spend their time talking politics or acting politics; for by so doing
they give the enemy opportunity to come in and cause variance and discord. Those in the
ministry who desire to stand as politicians, should have their credentials taken from them; for
this work God has not given to high or low among His people.God calls upon all who minister in
word and doctrine to give the trumpet a certain sound. All who have received Christ, ministers
and lay members, are to arise and shine; for great peril is right upon us. Satan is stirring up the
powers of earth. Everything in this world is in confusion. God calls upon His people to hold aloft
the banner bearing the message of the third angel....God's children are to separate themselves
from politics, from any alliance with unbelievers. They are not to link their interests with the
interests of the world. “Give proof of your allegiance to Me,” He says, “by standing as My
chosen heritage, as a people zealous of good works.” Do not take part in political strife. Separate
from the world, and refrain from bringing into the church or school ideas that will lead to
contention and disorder. Dissension is the moral poison taken into the system by human beings
who are selfish. God wants His servants to have clear perceptions, true and noble dignity, that
their influence may demonstrate the power of truth.The Christian life is not to be a haphazard,
emotional life. True Christian influence, exerted for the accomplishment of the work God has
appointed, is a precious agency, and it must not be united with politics, or bound up in a
confederacy with unbelievers. God is to be the center of attraction. Every mind that is worked by
the Holy Spirit will be satisfied with Him.—Letter 95, 1899.*****“None of us liveth to
himself.” [Romans 14:7.] Let those who are tempted to take part in politics, remember that every
move they make has its influence upon others. When ministers or others in responsible positions
make remarks in regard to these matters, they cannot gather up the thoughts they have planted in
human minds. Under Satan's temptations they have set in operation a train of circumstances
leading to results of which they little dream. An act, a word, a thought, cast into the minds of the
great concourse of humanity, if it bears the heavenly endorsement, will yield a harvest of
precious fruit; but if it is inspired by Satan, it will cause the root of bitterness to spring up,
whereby many will be defiled. Then let the stewards of God's grace in any line of service,
beware how they mingle the common with the sacred.*****Again and again Christ had been
asked to decide legal and political questions; but He refused to interfere in temporal matters....
He stood in our world as the Head of the great spiritual kingdom that He came to our world to
establish,—the kingdom of righteousness. His teaching made plain the ennobling, sanctifying
principles that govern this kingdom. He showed that justice and mercy and love are the
controlling powers in Jehovah's kingdom.—Testimonies for the Church 9:218.

Work for the Jews

At the time when Jerusalem was destroyed and the temple laid in ruins, many thousands of the
Jews were sold to serve as bondmen in heathen lands. Like wrecks on a desert shore, they were
scattered among the nations. For eighteen hundred years the Jews have wandered from land to
land throughout the world, and in no place have they been given the privilege of regaining their
ancient prestige as a nation. Maligned, hated, persecuted, from century to century theirs has been
a heritage of suffering.Notwithstanding the awful doom pronounced upon the Jews as a nation at
the time of their rejection of Jesus of Nazareth, there have lived from age to age many noble,
God-fearing Jewish men and women who have suffered in silence. God has comforted their
hearts in affliction, and has beheld with pity their terrible situation. He has heard the agonizing
prayers of those who have sought Him with all the heart for a right understanding of His word.
Some have learned to see in the lowly Nazarene whom their forefathers rejected and crucified,
the true Messiah of Israel. As their minds have grasped the significance of the familiar
prophecies so long obscured by tradition and misinterpretation, their hearts have been filled with
gratitude to God for the unspeakable gift He bestows upon every human being who chooses to
accept Christ as a personal Saviour.It is to this class that Isaiah referred in his prophecy, “A
remnant shall be saved.” [See Isaiah 10:20-22.] From Paul's day to the present time, God by His
Holy Spirit has been calling after the Jew as well as the Gentile. “There is no respect of persons
with God,” [Romans 2:11] declared Paul. The apostle regarded himself as “debtor both to the
Greeks, and to the barbarians,” [Romans 1:14] as well as to the Jews; but he never lost sight of
the decided advantages possessed by the Jews over others, “chiefly, because that unto them were
committed the oracles of God.” [Romans 3:2.] “The gospel,” he declared, “is the power of God
unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is
the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.”
[Romans 1:16, 17.] It is of this gospel of Christ, equally efficacious for Jew and Gentile, that
Paul in his epistle to the Romans declared he was not ashamed.When this gospel shall be
presented in its fulness to the Jews, many will accept Christ as the Messiah. Among Christian
ministers there are only a few who feel called upon to labor for the Jewish people; but to those
who have been often passed by, as well as to all others, the message of mercy and hope in Christ
is to come.In the closing proclamation of the gospel, when special work is to be done for classes
of people hitherto neglected, God expects His messengers to take particular interest in the Jewish
people whom they find in all parts of the earth. As the Old Testament Scriptures are blended with
the New in an explanation of Jehovah's eternal purpose, this will be to many of the Jews as the
dawn of a new creation, the resurrection of the soul. As they see the Christ of the gospel
dispensation portrayed in the pages of the Old Testament Scriptures, and perceive how clearly
the New Testament explains the Old, their slumbering faculties will be aroused, and they will
recognize Christ as the Saviour of the world. Many will by faith receive Him as their Redeemer.
To them will be fulfilled the words, “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to
become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Among the Jews
are some who, like Saul of Tarsus, are mighty in the Scriptures, and these will proclaim with
wonderful power the immutability of the law of God. The God of Israel will bring this to pass in
our day. His arm is not shortened that it cannot save. As His servants labor in faith for those who
have long been neglected and despised, His salvation will be revealed.“Thus saith the Lord, who
redeemed Abraham, concerning the house of Jacob, Jacob shall not now be ashamed, neither
shall his face now wax pale. But when he seeth his children, the work of Mine hands, in the
midst of him, they shall sanctify My name, and sanctify the Holy One of Jacob, and shall fear the
God of Israel. They also that erred in spirit shall come to understanding, and they that murmured
shall learn doctrine.” [Isaiah 29:22-24.]—The Acts of the Apostles, 379-382.

Importance of the Camp-Meeting

The camp-meeting is one of the most important agencies in our work. It is one of the most
effective methods of arresting the attention of the people, and reaching all classes with the gospel
invitation....If our camp-meetings are conducted as they should be, they will indeed be a light in
the world. They should be held in the large cities and towns where the message of truth has not
been proclaimed. And they should continue for two or three weeks. It may sometimes be
advisable to hold a camp-meeting for several successive seasons in the same place; but as a rule
the place of meeting should be changed from year to year. Instead of having mammoth camp-
meetings in a few localities, more good would be done by having smaller meetings in many
places. Thus the work will be constantly extending into new fields....A mistake has been made in
holding camp-meetings in out-of-the-way places, and in continuing in the same place year after
year. This has been done to save expense and labor; but the saving should be made in other lines.
In new fields especially, a dearth of means often makes if difficult to meet the expense of a
camp-meeting. Careful economy should be exercised, and inexpensive plans devised; for much
can be saved in this way. But let not the work be crippled. This method of presenting the truth to
the people is by the devising of our God. When souls are to be labored for, and the truth is to be
brought before those who know it not, the work must not be hindered in order to save expense....

Securing Attendance

At one time as we were preparing to hold a camp-meeting near a large city where our people
were but little known, I seemed one night to be in an assembly met for consultation as to the
work to be done before the meeting. It was proposed to make large efforts, and incur heavy
expense for distributing notices and papers. Arrangements were being made to do this, when One
who is wise in counsel said:“Set your tents, begin your meetings, then advertise; and more will
be accomplished. The truth spoken by the living preacher will have greater influence than the
same matter will have when published in the papers. But both methods combined will have still
greater force.“It is not the best plan to follow one line of effort year after year. Change the order
of things. When you give time and opportunity, Satan is prepared to rally his forces, and he will
work to destroy every soul possible.“Do not arouse opposition before the people have had
opportunity to hear the truth and know what they are opposing. Reserve your means to do a
strong work after the meeting rather than before. If a press can be secured to be worked during
the meeting, printing leaflets, notices, and papers for distribution, it will have a telling
influence.”At some of our camp-meetings, strong companies of workers have been organized to
go out into the city and its suburbs to distribute literature and invite people to the meetings. By
this means hundreds of persons were secured as regular attendants during the last half of the
meeting, who otherwise might have thought little about it. We must take every justifiable means
of bringing the light before the people....Those who have become interested have to meet
sophistry and misrepresentation from popular ministers, and they know not how to answer these
things. The truth presented by the living preacher should be published in as compact a form as
possible, and circulated widely. So far as practicable, let the important discourses given at our
camp-meetings be published in the newspapers. Thus the truth which was placed before a limited
number may find access to many minds. And where the truth has been misrepresented, the
people will have an opportunity of knowing just what the minister said....

Business Matters

As far as possible, our camp-meetings should be wholly devoted to spiritual interests. They
should not be made occasions for the transaction of business. Workers are gathered from all parts
of the field, and it seems a favorable opportunity for considering business matters connected with
the various branches of the work, and for the training of workers in different lines.All these
interests are important, but when they are attended to at a camp-meeting, but little opportunity
remains for dealing with the practical relation of truth to the soul. Ministers are diverted from
their work of building up the children of God in the most holy faith, and the camp-meeting does
not meet the end for which it was appointed.Many meetings are conducted in which the larger
number of the people have no interest; and if they could attend them all, they would go away
wearied instead of being refreshed and benefited. Many are disappointed at the failure of their
expectation to receive help from the camp-meeting. Those who came for enlightenment and
strength return to their homes little better fitted to work in their families and churches than before
attending the meeting.Business matters should be attended to by those specially appointed for
this work. And as far as possible they should be brought before the people at some other time
than the camp-meeting. Instruction in canvassing, in Sabbath-school work, and in the details of
tract and missionary work, should be given in the home churches, or in meetings specially
appointed. The same principle applies to cooking-schools. While these are all right in their place,
they should not occupy the time of our camp-meetings.The presidents of conferences and the
ministers should give themselves to the spiritual interests of the people, and should therefore be
excused from the mechanical labor attendant upon the meeting. The ministers should be ready to
act as teachers and leaders in the work of the camp when occasion requires; but they should not
be wearied out. They should feel refreshed, and be in a cheerful frame of mind; for this is
essential for the best good of the meeting. They should be able to speak words of cheer and
courage, and to drop seeds of spiritual truth into the soil of honest hearts....*****

The Training of Young Workers

Those who are in training for work in the cause in any line, should improve every opportunity to
work at the camp-meeting. Wherever camp-meetings are held, young men who have received an
education in medical lines should feel it their duty to act a part. They should be encouraged not
only to work in medical lines, but also to speak upon the points of present truth, giving the
reason why we are Seventh-day Adventists. These young men, if given an opportunity to work
with older ministers, will receive much help and blessing....Properly conducted, the camp-
meeting is a school where pastors, elders, and deacons can learn to do more perfect work for the
Master. It should be a school where the members of the church, old and young, are given an
opportunity to learn the way of the Lord more perfectly, a place where believers can receive an
education that will help them to help others....*****One night, previous to an important meeting,
I seemed in my sleeping hours to be in meeting with my brethren, listening to One who spoke as
having authority. He said:“Many souls will attend this meeting who are honestly ignorant of the
truths that will be presented. They will listen and become interested, because Christ is drawing
them; conscience tells them that what they hear is true, for it has the Bible for its foundation. The
greatest care is needed in dealing with these souls.“Let such portions of the message be dealt out
to them as they may be able to grasp and appropriate. Though it should appear strange and
startling, many will recognize with joy that new light is shed on the word of God; whereas, if
new truths were presented in so large a measure that they could not comprehend them, some
would go away and never come again. Some, in their efforts to tell it to others, would
misrepresent what they had heard. Some would so wrest the Scriptures as to confuse other
minds.“Those who will study the manner of Christ's teaching, and educate themselves to follow
His way, will attract and hold large numbers now, as Christ held the people in His day. At every
meeting, Satan will be on the ground, that he may obtrude his hellish shadow between man and
God, to intercept every ray of light that might shine on the soul. But when the truth in its
practical character is urged upon the people because you love them, souls will be convicted,
because the Holy Spirit of God will impress their hearts.“Arm yourselves with humility; pray
that angels of God may come close to your side to impress the mind; for it is not you that work
the Holy Spirit, but the Holy Spirit must work you. It is the Holy Spirit that makes the truth
impressive. Keep practical truth ever before the people.”Do not make prominent those features
of the message which are a condemnation of the customs and practices of the people, until they
have an opportunity to know that we are believers in Christ, that we believe in His divinity and
in His pre-existence. Let the testimony of the world's Redeemer be dwelt upon. He says, “I Jesus
have sent Mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches.” [Revelation
22:16.] ...Whenever practicable, every important discourse should be followed by a Bible study.
Here the points that have been presented can be applied, questions can be asked, and right ideas
inculcated. More time should be devoted to patiently educating the people, giving them
opportunity to express themselves. It is instruction that men need, line upon line and precept
upon precept.Special meetings also should be held for those who are becoming interested in the
truths presented, and who need instruction. To these meetings the people should be invited, and
all, both believers and unbelievers, should have an opportunity to ask questions on points not
fully understood. Give all an opportunity to speak of their perplexities, for they will have them.
In all the sermons and in all the Bible studies, let the people see that on every point a plain “Thus
saith the Lord” is given for the faith and doctrines which we advocate.This was the method of
Christ's teaching. As He spoke to the people, they would question as to His meaning. To those
who were humbly seeking for light, He was always ready to explain His words. But Christ did
not encourage criticism or caviling, nor should we. When men try to provoke a discussion of
controverted points of doctrine, tell them that the meeting was not appointed for that purpose.
When you do answer a question, be sure to have the hearers see and acknowledge that it is
answered. Do not let a question drop, telling them to ask it again. Feel your way step by step, and
know how much you have gained.—Testimonies for the Church 6:31-69.

Less Preaching, More Teaching

At our camp-meetings, one or two laborers should not be required to do all the preaching and all
the teaching in Bible lines. At times, greater good can be accomplished by breaking up the large
congregation into sections. Thus the educator in Bible truth can come closer to the people than in
a large assembly.There is much more preaching than there should be at our camp-meetings. This
brings a heavy burden upon the ministers, and as a consequence much that requires attention is
neglected. Many little things that open the door to serious evils are passed by unnoticed. The
minister is robbed of physical strength, and deprived of the time he needs for meditation and
prayer, in order to keep his own soul in the love of God. And when so many discourses are
crowded in, one after another, the people have no time to appropriate what they hear. Their
minds become confused, and the services seem to them tedious and wearisome.There should be
less preaching, and more teaching. There are those who want more definite light than they
receive from hearing the sermons. Some need a longer time than do others to understand the
points presented. If the truth presented could be made a little plainer, they would see it and take
hold of it, and it would be like a nail fastened in a sure place.It has been shown me that our
camp-meetings are to increase in interest and success. As we approach the end, I have seen that
in these meetings there will be less preaching, and more Bible study. There will be little groups
all over the grounds, with their Bibles in their hands, and different ones leading out in a free,
conversational study of the Scriptures.This was the method that Christ taught His disciples.
When the great throngs gathered about the Saviour, He would give instruction to the disciples
and to the multitude. Then after the discourse, the disciples would mingle with the people, and
repeat to them what Christ had said. Often the hearers had misapplied Christ's words, and the
disciples would tell them what the Scriptures said, and what Christ had taught that they said.—
Testimonies for the Church 6:87, 88.*****The great Teacher brought His hearers in contact with
nature, that they might listen to the voice which speaks in all created things; and as their hearts
became tender and their minds receptive, He helped them to interpret the spiritual teaching of the
scenes upon which their eyes rested. The parables, by means of which He loved to teach lessons
of truth, show how open His spirit was to the influences of nature, and how He delighted to
gather the spiritual teaching from the surroundings of daily life. The birds of the air, the lilies of
the field, the sower and the seed, the shepherd and the sheep,—with these Christ illustrated
immortal truth. He drew illustrations also from the events of life, facts of experience familiar to
the hearers,—the leaven, the hid treasure, the pearl, the fishing net, the lost coin, the prodigal
son, the houses on the rock and the sand. In His lessons there was something to interest every
mind, to appeal to every heart.—Education, 102.

Sowing and Reaping

“One soweth, and another reapeth.” [John 4:37.] The Saviour spoke these words in anticipation
of the ordination and sending forth of His disciples. Throughout Judea, Christ had been sowing
the seeds of truth. Clearly and distinctly He had outlined the plan of salvation; for the truth never
languished on His lips. The earthly work of the great Teacher was soon to close. The disciples
were to follow after, reaping where He had sown, that both the Sower and the reapers might
rejoice together.Today in His great harvest-field God has need of sowers and of reapers. Let
those who go forth into the work, some to sow and some to reap, remember that they are never to
take to themselves the glory for the success of their work. God's appointed agencies have been
before them, preparing the way for the sowing of the seed and the reaping of the harvest. “I sent
you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labor,” Christ said; “other men labored, and ye are
entered into their labors.” [John 4:38.]“He that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto
life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.” [John 4:36.] Read
these words carefully. Study their meaning; for they outline God's plan. Those who sow the seed,
presenting before large and small gatherings the testing truth for this time, at the cost of much
labor, may not always gather the harvest. Often the Lord's workers are bitterly opposed, and their
work is hindered. They do their best; with earnest, painstaking effort they sow the good seed. But
the element of opposition becomes fiercer and fiercer. Some of the hearers may be convinced of
the truth, but they are intimidated by the opposition shown, and they have not the courage to
acknowledge their convictions.The lives of the workers may be endangered by those who are
controlled by Satan. It is then their privilege to follow the example of their Master, and go to
another place. “Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel,” Christ said, “till the Son of man
be come.” [Matthew 10:23.] Let the messengers of truth pass on to another field. Here may be a
more favorable opportunity for work, and they may successfully sow the seed of truth and reap
the harvest. The report of their success will find its way to the place where the work was
apparently unsuccessful, and the next messenger of truth who goes there will be more favorably
received.The seed sown in trial and discouragement will be seen to have life and vitality.
Adversity, sorrow, loss of property, the changes of God's providence, recall with vivid
distinctness the words spoken years before by the faithful servant of God. The seed sown springs
up and bears fruit.God has need of wise men and women who will labor earnestly to accomplish
the work committed to them. He will use them as His instruments in the conversion of souls.
Some will sow, and some will reap the harvest of the seed sown. Let every one do his best to
improve his talents, that God may use him either as a sower or as a reaper

Chapter 49—Our Attitude Toward the Civil Authorities

By some of our brethren many things have been spoken and written that are interpreted as
expressing antagonism to government and law. It is a mistake thus to lay ourselves open to
misunderstanding. It is not wise to find fault continually with what is done by the rulers of
government. It is not our work to attack individuals or institutions. We should exercise great care
lest we be understood as putting ourselves in opposition to the civil authorities. It is true that our
warfare is aggressive, but our weapons are to be those found in a plain “Thus saith the Lord.”
Our work is to prepare a people to stand in the great day of God. We should not be turned aside
to lines that will encourage controversy or arouse antagonism in those not of our faith.We should
not work in a manner that will mark us out as seeming to advocate treason. We should weed out
from our writings and utterances every expression that, taken by itself, could be so
misrepresented as to make it appear antagonistic to law and order. Everything should be
carefully considered, lest we place ourselves on record as encouraging disloyalty to our country
and its laws. We are not required to defy authorities. There will come a time when, because of
our advocacy of Bible truth, we shall be treated as traitors; but let not this time be hastened by
unadvised movements that stir up animosity and strife.The time will come when unguarded
expressions of a denunciatory character, that have been carelessly spoken or written by our
brethren, will be used by our enemies to condemn us. These will not be used merely to condemn
those who made the statements, but will be charged upon the whole body of Adventists. Our
accusers will say that on such and such a day one of our responsible men said thus and so against
the administration of the laws of this government. Many will be astonished to see how many
things have been cherished and remembered that will give point to the arguments of our
adversaries. Many will be surprised to hear their own words strained into a meaning that they did
not intend them to have. Then let our workers be careful to speak guardedly at all times and
under all circumstances. Let all beware lest by reckless expressions they bring on a time of
trouble before the great crisis which is to try men's souls.The less we make direct charges against
authorities and powers, the greater work we shall be able to accomplish, both in America and in
foreign countries. Foreign nations will follow the example of the United States. Though she leads
out, yet the same crisis will come upon our people in all parts of the world.It is our work to
magnify and exalt the law of God. The truth of God's holy word is to be made manifest. We are
to hold up the Scriptures as the rule of life. In all modesty, in the spirit of grace, and in the love
of God we are to point men to the fact that the Lord God is the Creator of the heavens and the
earth, and that the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord.In the name of the Lord we are to go
forward, unfurling His banner, advocating His word. When the authorities command us not to do
this work, when they forbid us to proclaim the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus,
then it will be necessary for us to say as did the apostles: “Whether it be right in the sight of God
to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we
have seen and heard.” Acts 4:19, 20.The truth is to be set forth in the power of the Holy Spirit.
This alone can make our words effective. Only through the Spirit's power will victory be gained
and held. The human agent must be worked by the Spirit of God. The workers must be kept by
the power of God through faith unto salvation. They must have divine wisdom, that nothing may
be uttered which would stir up men to close our way. Through the inculcation of spiritual truth
we are to prepare a people who shall be able, in meekness and fear, to give a reason for their
faith before the highest authorities in our world.We need to present the truth in its simplicity, to
advocate practical godliness; and we should do this in the spirit of Christ. The manifestation of
such a spirit will have the best influence upon our own souls, and it will have a convincing
power upon others. Give the Lord opportunity to work through His own agents. Do not imagine
that it will be possible for you to lay out plans for the future; let God be acknowledged as
standing at the helm at all times and under every circumstance. He will work by means that will
be suitable, and will maintain, increase, and build up His own people.The Lord's agents should
have a sanctified zeal, a zeal that is wholly under His control. Stormy times will come rapidly
enough upon us, and we should take no course of our own that will hasten them. Tribulation will
come of a character that will drive to God all who wish to be His, and His alone. Until tested and
proved in the furnace of trial, we do not know ourselves, and it is not proper for us to measure
the characters of others and to condemn those who have not yet had the light of the third angel's
message.If we wish men to be convinced that the truth we believe sanctifies the soul and
transforms the character, let us not be continually charging them with vehement accusations. In
this way we shall force them to the conclusion that the doctrine we profess cannot be the
Christian doctrine, since it does not make us kind, courteous, and respectful. Christianity is not
manifested in pugilistic accusations and condemnation.Many of our people are in danger of
trying to exercise a controlling power upon others and of bringing oppression upon their fellow
men. There is danger that those who are entrusted with responsibilities will acknowledge but one
power, the power of an unsanctified will. Some have exercised this power unscrupulously and
have caused great discomfiture to those whom the Lord is using. One of the greatest curses in our
world (and it is seen in churches and in society everywhere) is the love of supremacy. Men
become absorbed in seeking to secure power and popularity. This spirit has manifested itself in
the ranks of Sabbathkeepers, to our grief and shame. But spiritual success comes only to those
who have learned meekness and lowliness in the school of Christ.We should remember that the
world will judge us by what we appear to be. Let those who are seeking to represent Christ be
careful not to exhibit inconsistent features of character. Before we come fully to the front, let us
see to it that the Holy Spirit is poured upon us from on high. When this is the case, we shall give
a decided message, but it will be of a far less condemnatory character than that which some have
been giving; and all who believe will be far more earnest for the salvation of our opponents. Let
God have the matter of condemning authorities and governments wholly in His own keeping. In
meekness and love let us as faithful sentinels defend the principles of truth as it is in Jesus.

Love Among Brethren

The characteristics most needful to be cherished by God's commandment-keeping people are

patience and long-suffering, peace and love. When love is lacking, irretrievable loss is sustained;
for souls are driven away from the truth, even after they have been connected with the cause of
God. Our brethren in responsible positions, who have strength of influence, should remember the
words of the apostle Paul, spoken by the Holy Spirit: “We then that are strong ought to bear the
infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let every one of us please his neighbor for
his good to edification. For even Christ pleased not Himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches
of them that reproached Thee fell on Me.” Romans 15:1-3. Again he says: “Brethren, if a man be
over taken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness;
considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the
law of Christ.” Galatians 6:1, 2.Bear in mind that the work of restoring is to be our burden. This
work is not to be done in a proud, officious, masterly way. Do not say, by your manner, “I have
the power, and I will use it,” and pour out accusations upon the erring one. Do your restoring “in
the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” The work set before us to
do for our brethren is not to cast them aside, not to press them into discouragement or despair by
saying: “You have disappointed me, and I will not try to help you.” He who sets himself up as
full of wisdom and strength, and bears down upon one who is oppressed and distressed and
longing for help, manifests the spirit of the Pharisee, and wraps himself about with the robe of
his own self-constituted dignity. In his spirit he thanks God that he is not as other men are, and
supposes that his course is praiseworthy and that he is too strong to be tempted. But “if a man
think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.” Verse 3. He himself is
in constant danger. He who ignores the grave necessities of his brother will in the providence of
God be brought over the same ground that his brother has traveled in trial and sorrow, and by a
bitter experience it will be proved to him that he is as helpless and needy as was the suffering
one whom he repulsed. “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that
shall he also reap.” Verse 7.“If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of
love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, fulfill ye My joy, that ye be like-
minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through
strife or vain-glory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look
not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in
you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 2:1-5.The closer we keep to Christ, and the
more meek and lowly and self-distrustful we are, the firmer will be our hold on Christ, and the
greater will be our power, through Christ, to convert sinners; for it is not the human agent that
moves the soul. Heavenly intelligences co-operate with the human agent and impress the truth
upon the heart. Abiding in Christ we are able to exert an influence over others; but it is because
of the presence of Him who says: “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.”
Matthew 28:20. The power we have to overcome Satan is the result of Christ working in us to
will and to do of His good pleasure.

Present Truth with Gentleness

The truth should be presented with divine tact, gentleness, and tenderness. It should come from a
heart that has been softened and made sympathetic. We need to have close communion with
God, lest self rise up, as it did in Jehu, and we pour forth a torrent of words that are unbefitting,
that are not as dew or as the still showers that revive the withering plants. Let our words be
gentle as we seek to win souls. God will be wisdom to him who seeks for wisdom from a divine
source. We are to seek opportunities on every hand, we are to watch unto prayer, and be ready
always to give a reason for the hope that is in us, with meekness and fear. Lest we shall impress
unfavorably one soul for whom Christ died we should keep our hearts uplifted to God, so that
when the opportunity presents itself, we may have the right word to speak at the right time. If
you thus undertake work for God, the Spirit of God will be your helper. The Holy Spirit will
apply the word spoken in love for the soul. The truth will have quickening power when spoken
under the influence of the grace of Christ.God's plan is first to get at the heart. Speak the truth,
and let Him carry forward the reformatory power and principle. Make no reference to what
opponents say, but let the truth alone be advanced. The truth can cut to the quick. Plainly unfold
the word in all its impressiveness.As trials thicken around us, both separation and unity will be
seen in our ranks. Some who are now ready to take up weapons of warfare will in times of real
peril make it manifest that they have not built upon the solid rock; they will yield to temptation.
Those who have had great light and precious privileges, but have not improved them, will, under
one pretext or another, go out from us. Not having received the love of the truth, they will be
taken in the delusions of the enemy; they will give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of
devils, and will depart from the faith. But, on the other hand, when the storm of persecution
really breaks upon us, the true sheep will hear the true Shepherd's voice. Self-denying efforts will
be put forth to save the lost, and many who have strayed from the fold will come back to follow
the great Shepherd. The people of God will draw together and present to the enemy a united
front. In view of the common peril, strife for supremacy will cease; there will be no disputing as
to who shall be accounted greatest. No one of the true believers will say: “I am of Paul; and I of
Apollos; and I of Cephas.” The testimony of one and all will be: “I cleave unto Christ; I rejoice
in Him as my personal Saviour.”Thus will the truth be brought into practical life, and thus will
be answered the prayer of Christ, uttered just before His humiliation and death: “That they all
may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the
world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” John 17:21. The love of Christ, the love of our
brethren, will testify to the world that we have been with Jesus and learned of Him. Then will the
message of the third angel swell to a loud cry, and the whole earth will be lightened with the
glory of the Lord.*****Our convictions need daily to be reinforced by humble, sincere prayer
and reading of the word. While we each have an individuality, while we each should hold our
convictions firmly, we must hold them as God's truth and in the strength which God imparts. If
we do not, they will be wrung from our grasp.

Chapter 50—God's Word to be Supreme

The people of God will recognize human government as an ordinance of divine appointment and
will teach obedience to it as a sacred duty within its legitimate sphere. But when its claims
conflict with the claims of God, the word of God must be recognized as above all human
legislation. “Thus saith the Lord” is not to be set aside for Thus saith the church or the state. The
crown of Christ is to be uplifted above the diadems of earthly potentates.The principle we are to
uphold at this time is the same that was maintained by the adherents of the gospel in the great
Reformation. When the princes assembled at the Diet of Spires in 1529, it seemed that the hope
of the world was about to be crushed out. To this assembly was presented the emperor's decree
restricting religious liberty and prohibiting all further dissemination of the reformed doctrines.
Would the princes of Germany accept the decree? Should the light of the gospel be shut out from
the multitudes that were still in darkness? Mighty issues for the world were at stake. Those who
had accepted the reformed faith met together, and the unanimous decision was: “Let us reject the
decree. In matters of conscience the majority has no power.”The banner of truth and religious
liberty which these Reformers held aloft has in this last conflict been committed to us. The
responsibility for this great gift rests with those whom God has blessed with a knowledge of His
word. We are to receive God's word as supreme authority. We must accept its truths for
ourselves. And we can appreciate these truths only as we search them out by personal study.
Then, as we make God's word the guide of our lives, for us is answered the prayer of Christ:
“Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth.” John 17:17. The acknowledgment of the
truth in word and deed is our confession of faith. Only thus can others know that we believe the
Bible.Those Reformers whose protest has given us the name Protestant felt that God had called
them to give the gospel to the world, and in doing this they were ready to sacrifice their
possessions, their liberty, and their lives. Are we in this last conflict of the great controversy as
faithful to our trust as were the early Reformers to theirs?In the face of persecution and death, the
truth for that time was spread far and near. The word of God was carried to the people; all
classes, high and low, rich and poor, learned and ignorant, studied it eagerly, and those who
received the light became in their turn its messengers. In those days the truth was brought home
to the people through the press. Luther's pen was a power, and his writings, scattered broadcast,
stirred the world. The same agencies are at our command, with facilities multiplied a
hundredfold. Bibles, publications in many languages, setting forth the truth for this time, are at
our hand and can be swiftly carried to all the world. We are to give the last warning of God to
men, and what should be our earnestness in studying the Bible, and our zeal in spreading the
light!

Chapter 51—Preparation for the Final Crisis

The great crisis is just before us. To meet its trials and temptations, and to perform its duties, will
require persevering faith. But we may triumph gloriously; not one watching, praying, believing
soul will be ensnared by the enemy.In the time of trial before us God's pledge of security will be
placed upon those who have kept the word of His patience. Christ will say to His faithful ones:
“Come, My people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it
were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.” Isaiah 26:20. The Lion of Judah, so
terrible to the rejectors of His grace, will be the Lamb of God to the obedient and faithful. The
pillar of cloud which speaks wrath and terror to the transgressor of God's law is light and mercy
and deliverance to those who have kept His commandments. The arm strong to smite the
rebellious will be strong to deliver the loyal. Every faithful one will surely be gathered. “He shall
send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together His elect from the
four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.” Matthew 24:31.Brethren, to whom the truths of
God's word have been opened, what part will you act in the closing scenes of this world's
history? Are you awake to these solemn realities? Do you realize the grand work of preparation
that is going on in heaven and on earth? Let all who have received the light, who have had the
opportunity of reading and hearing the prophecy, take heed to those things that are written
therein; “for the time is at hand.” Let none now tamper with sin, the source of every misery in
our world. No longer remain in lethargy and stupid indifference. Let not the destiny of your soul
hang upon an uncertainty. Know that you are fully on the Lord's side. Let the inquiry go forth
from sincere hearts and trembling lips, “Who shall be able to stand?” Have you, in these last
precious hours of probation, been putting the very best material into your character building?
Have you been purifying your souls from every stain? Have you followed the light? Have you
works corresponding to your profession of faith?Is the softening, subduing influence of the grace
of God working upon you? Have you hearts that can feel, eyes that can see, ears that can hear? Is
it in vain that the declaration of eternal truth has been made concerning the nations of the earth?
They are under condemnation, preparing for the judgments of God; and in this day which is big
with eternal results, the people chosen to be the depositaries of momentous truth ought to be
abiding in Christ. Are you letting your light shine to illumine the nations that are perishing in
their sins? Do you realize that you are to stand in defense of God's commandments before those
who are treading them underfoot?It is possible to be a partial, formal believer, and yet be found
wanting and lose eternal life. It is possible to practice some of the Bible injunctions and be
regarded as a Christian, and yet perish because you lack qualifications essential to Christian
character. If you neglect or treat with indifference the warnings that God has given, if you
cherish or excuse sin, you are sealing your soul's destiny. You will be weighed in the balance and
found wanting. Grace, peace, and pardon will be forever withdrawn; Jesus will have passed by,
never again to come within reach of your prayers and entreaties. While mercy lingers, while the
Saviour is making intercession, let us make thorough work for eternity.The return of Christ to
our world will not be long delayed. Let this be the keynote of every message.*****The blessed
hope of the second appearing of Christ, with its solemn realities, needs to be often presented to
the people. Looking for the soon appearing of our Lord will lead us to regard earthly things as
emptiness and nothingness.*****The battle of Armageddon is soon to be fought. He on whose
vesture is written the name, King of kings, and Lord of lords, is soon to lead forth the armies of
heaven.It cannot now be said by the Lord's servants, as it was by the prophet Daniel: “The time
appointed was long.” Daniel 10:1. It is now but a short time till the witnesses for God will have
done their work in preparing the way of the Lord.*****We are to throw aside our narrow, selfish
plans, remembering that we have a work of the largest magnitude and highest importance. In
doing this work we are sounding the first, second, and third angels' messages, and are thus being
prepared for the coming of that other angel from heaven who is to lighten the earth with his
glory.*****The day of the Lord is approaching with stealthy tread; but the supposed great and
wise men know not the signs of Christ's coming or of the end of the world. Iniquity abounds, and
the love of many has waxed cold.There are thousands upon thousands, millions upon millions,
who are now making their decision for eternal life or eternal death. The man who is wholly
absorbed in his counting room, the man who finds pleasure at the gaming table, the man who
loves to indulge perverted appetite, the amusement lover, the frequenters of the theater and the
ballroom, put eternity out of their reckoning. The whole burden of their life is: What shall we
eat? what shall we drink? and wherewithal shall we be clothed? They are not in the procession
that is moving heavenward. They are led by the great apostate, and with him will be
destroyed.*****Unless we understand the importance of the moments that are swiftly passing
into eternity, and make ready to stand in the great day of God, we shall be unfaithful stewards.
The watchman is to know the time of night. Every thing is now clothed with a solemnity that all
who believe the truth for this time should realize. They should act in reference to the day of God.
The judgments of God are about to fall upon the world, and we need to be preparing for that
great day.Our time is precious. We have but few, very few days of probation in which to make
ready for the future, immortal life. We have no time to spend in haphazard movements. We
should fear to skim the surface of the word of God.*****It is as true now as when Christ was
upon the earth, that every inroad made by the gospel upon the enemy's dominion is met by fierce
opposition from his vast armies. The conflict that is right upon us will be the most terrible ever
witnessed. But though Satan is represented as being as strong as the strong man armed, his
overthrow will be complete, and everyone who unites with him in choosing apostasy rather than
loyalty will perish with him.The restraining Spirit of God is even now being withdrawn from the
world. Hurricanes, storms, tempests, fire and flood, disasters by sea and land, follow each other
in quick succession. Science seeks to explain all these. The signs thickening around us, telling of
the near approach of the Son of God, are attributed to any other than the true cause. Men cannot
discern the sentinel angels restraining the four winds that they shall not blow until the servants of
God are sealed; but when God shall bid His angels loose the winds, there will be such a scene of
strife as no pen can picture.*****To those who are indifferent at this time Christ's warning is:
“Because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of My mouth.”
Revelation 3:16. The figure of spewing out of His mouth means that He cannot offer up your
prayers or your expressions of love to God. He cannot endorse your teaching of His word or your
spiritual work in anywise. He cannot present your religious exercises with the request that grace
be given you.*****Could the curtain be rolled back, could you discern the purposes of God and
the judgments that are about to fall upon a doomed world, could you see your own attitude, you
would fear and tremble for your own souls and for the souls of your fellow men. Earnest prayers
of heart-rending anguish would go up to heaven. You would weep between the porch and the
altar, confessing your spiritual blindness and backsliding.“Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a
fast, call a solemn assembly: gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders,
gather the children: ... let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet.
Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say,
Spare Thy people, O Lord, and give not Thine heritage to reproach.” Joel 2:15-17.“Turn ye even
to Me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: and rend your
heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for He is gracious and merciful,
slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth Him of the evil. Who knoweth if He will
return and repent, and leave a blessing behind Him?” Verses 12-14.*****After Israel's apostasy
and bitter retribution, God's message of grace for the repentant people was: “Behold, I will allure
her, and bring her into the wilderness, and speak comfortably unto her. And I will give her her
vineyards from thence, and the valley of Achor for a door of hope: and she shall sing there, as in
the days of her youth, and as in the day when she came up out of the land of Egypt.” Hosea 2:14,
15.*****“And it shall be at that day, saith the Lord, that thou shalt call Me my husband; and
shalt call Me no more my lord.... And I will betroth thee unto Me forever; yea, I will betroth thee
unto Me in righteousness, and in judgment, and in loving-kindness, and in mercies. I will even
betroth thee unto Me in faithfulness: and thou shalt know the Lord.” Verses 16-20,
margin.*****“And ye shall know that I am in the midst of Israel, and that I am the Lord your
God, and none else: and My people shall never be ashamed.” Joel 2:27.Warning, admonition,
promise, all are for us, upon whom the ends of the world are come. “Therefore let us not sleep,
as do others; but let us watch and be sober.” 1 Thessalonians 5:6.*****“Take heed to yourselves,
lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this
life, and so that day come upon you unawares.” Luke 21:34.*****“Watch ye and pray, lest ye
enter into temptation.” Mark 14:38. Watch against the stealthy approach of the enemy, watch
against old habits and natural inclinations, lest they assert themselves; force them back, and
watch. Watch the thoughts, watch the plans, lest they become self-centered. Watch over the souls
whom Christ has purchased with His own blood. Watch for opportunities to do them
good.*****Watch, “lest coming suddenly He find you sleeping.” Mark 13:36.

Section 7—Calls to Service

“I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I,
Here am I; send me.”

Chapter 52—Young Men in the Ministry

Section 7—The Religious Liberty Work

[In this section, portions of only a few manuscripts (hitherto unpublished) are given. For other
important matter having a direct, vital bearing on religious, liberty work, see Testimonies for the
Church 5:449-454, 467-476, 711-720; Testimonies for the Church 6:394-410; also The Great
Controversy, chapters 2, 16, 25, 36, 38-40.]“Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the
inhabitants thereof.” “Be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” Leviticus 25:10;
Matthew 10:16.

Chapter 27—A Time of Trial Before Us

A season of great trial is before us. It becomes us now to use all our capabilities and gifts in
advancing the work of God. The powers the Lord has given us are to be used to build up, not to
tear down. Those who are ignorantly deceived are not to remain in this condition. The Lord says
to His messengers: Go to them and declare unto them what I have said, whether they will hear, or
whether they will forbear.The time is right upon us when persecution will come to those who
proclaim the truth. The outlook is not flattering; but, notwithstanding this, let us not give up our
efforts to save those ready to perish, for whose ransom the Prince of heaven offered up His
precious life. When one means fails, try another. Our efforts must not be dead and lifeless. As
long as life is spared, let us work for God. In all ages of the church God's appointed messengers
have exposed themselves to reproach and persecution for the truth's sake. But wherever God's
people may be forced to go, even though, like the beloved disciple, they are banished to desert
islands, Christ will know where they are and will strengthen and bless them, filling them with
peace and joy.Soon there is to be trouble all over the world. It becomes everyone to seek to know
God. We have no time to delay. With earnestness and fervor the message must be given: “Ho,
everyone that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat;
yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.” Isaiah 55:1. “Thus saith the
Lord, Keep ye judgment, and do justice: for My salvation is near to come, and My righteousness
to be revealed. Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the Son of man that layeth hold on it; that
keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil.” Isaiah 56:1,
2.God's love for His church is infinite. His care over His heritage is unceasing. He suffers no
affliction to come upon the church but such as is essential for her purification, her present and
eternal good. He will purify His church even as He purified the temple at the beginning and close
of His ministry on earth. All that He brings upon the church in test and trial comes that His
people may gain deeper piety and more strength to carry the triumphs of the cross to all parts of
the world. He has a work for all to do. There must be constant enlargement and progress. The
work must extend from city to city, from country to country, and from nation to nation, moving
continually onward and upward, established, strengthened, and settled.*****“The Word was
made flesh, and dwelt among us, ... full of grace and truth.” But those whom Christ came to save,
would have none of Him. “He came unto His own, and His own received Him not.” John 1:14,
11. Yielding themselves to Satan's control, they rejected the Messiah and sought opportunity to
put Him to death.Satan and his angels determined to make Christ's death as humiliating as
possible. They filled the hearts of the Jewish leaders with feelings of bitter hatred against the
Saviour. Controlled by the enemy, priests and rulers stirred the multitude to take part against the
Son of God. Aside from Pilate's declaration of His innocence, no one spoke a word in His favor.
And even Pilate, knowing His innocence, gave Him over to the abuse of men under the control
of Satan.Similar events will take place in the near future. Men will exalt and rigidly enforce laws
that are in direct opposition to the law of God. Though zealous in enforcing their own
commandments, they will turn away from a plain “Thus saith the Lord.” Exalting a spurious rest
day, they will seek to force men to dishonor the law of Jehovah, the transcript of His character.
Though innocent of wrongdoing, the servants of God will be given over to suffer humiliation and
abuse at the hands of those who, inspired by Satan, are filled with envy and religious
bigotry.*****Religious powers, allied to heaven by profession, and claiming to have the
characteristics of a lamb, will show by their acts that they have the heart of a dragon and that
they are instigated and controlled by Satan. The time is coming when God's people will feel the
hand of persecution because they keep holy the seventh day. Satan has caused the change of the
Sabbath in the hope of carrying out his purpose for the defeat of God's plans. He seeks to make
the commands of God of less force in the world than human laws. The man of sin, who thought
to change times and laws, and who has always oppressed the people of God, will cause laws to
be made enforcing the observance of the first day of the week. But God's people are to stand firm
for Him. And the Lord will work in their behalf, showing plainly that He is the God of
gods.*****The Lord has said: “Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me
and you throughout your generations.” Exodus 31:13. None should disobey His command in
order to escape persecution. But let all consider the words of Christ: “When they persecute you
in this city, flee ye into another.” Matthew 10:23. If it can be avoided, do not put yourselves into
the power of men who are worked by the spirit of antichrist. Everything that we can do should be
done that those who are willing to suffer for the truth's sake may be saved from oppression and
cruelty.Christ is our example. The determination of antichrist to carry out the rebellion he began
in heaven will continue to work in the children of disobedience. Their envy and hatred against
those who obey the fourth commandment will wax more and more bitter. But the people of God
are not to hide their banner. They are not to ignore the commandments of God and, in order to
have an easy time, go with the multitude to do evil.The Lord encourages all who seek Him with
the whole heart. He gives them His Holy Spirit, the manifestation of His presence and favor. But
those who forsake God in order to save their lives will be forsaken by Him. In seeking to save
their lives by yielding the truth, they will lose eternal life.The night of trial is nearly spent. Satan
is bringing in his masterly power because he knoweth that his time is short. The chastisement of
God is upon the world to call all who know the truth to hide in the cleft of the Rock and view the
glory of God. The truth must not be muffled now. Plain statements must be made. Unvarnished
truth must be spoken, in leaflets and pamphlets, and these must be scattered like the leaves of
autumn.*****The remnant church will be brought into great trial and distress. Those who keep
the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus will feel the ire of the dragon and his hosts.
Satan numbers the world as his subjects, he has gained control of the apostate churches; but here
is a little company that are resisting his supremacy. If he could blot them from the earth, his
triumph would be complete. As he influenced the heathen nations to destroy Israel, so in the near
future he will stir up the wicked powers of earth to destroy the people of God. All will be
required to render obedience to human edicts in violation of the divine law. Those who will be
true to God and to duty will be menaced, denounced, and proscribed. They will be betrayed
“both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends.” Luke 21:16. [Testimonies for the
Church 5:472, 473.]*****“Hearken unto Me, ye that know righteousness, the people in whose
heart is My law; fear ye not the reproach of men, neither be ye afraid of their revilings. For the
moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool;” “but My
salvation shall be forever, and My righteousness shall not be abolished.” Isaiah 51:7, 8, 6.

Chapter 28—Sunday Labor

Sanitarium, California,August 17, 1902.Dear Brother,I will try to answer your question as to
what you should do in the case of Sunday laws being enforced.The light given me by the Lord at
a time when we were expecting just such a crisis as you seem to be approaching, was that when
the people were moved by a power from beneath to enforce Sunday observance, Seventh-day
Adventists were to show their wisdom by refraining from their ordinary work on that day,
devoting it to missionary effort.To defy the Sunday laws will but strengthen in their persecution
the religious zealots who are seeking to enforce them. Give them no occasion to call you
lawbreakers. If they are left to rein up men who fear neither God nor man, the reining up will
soon lose its novelty for them, and they will see that it is not consistent nor convenient for them
to be strict in regard to the observance of Sunday. Keep right on with your missionary work, with
your Bibles in your hands, and the enemy will see that he has worsted his own cause. One does
not receive the mark of the beast because he shows that he realizes the wisdom of keeping the
peace by refraining from work that gives offense, doing at the same time a work of the highest
importance.When we devote Sunday to missionary work, the whip will be taken out of the hands
of the arbitrary zealots who would be well pleased to humiliate Seventh-day Adventists. When
they see that we employ ourselves on Sunday in visiting the people and opening the Scriptures to
them, they will know that it is useless for them to try to hinder our work by making Sunday
laws.Sunday can be used for carrying forward various lines of work that will accomplish much
for the Lord. On this day open-air meetings and cottage meetings can be held. House-to-house
work can be done. Those who write can devote this day to writing their articles. Whenever it is
possible, let religious services be held on Sunday. Make these meetings intensely interesting.
Sing genuine revival hymns, and speak with power and assurance of the Saviour's love. Speak on
temperance and on true religious experience. You will thus learn much about how to work, and
will reach many souls.Let the teachers in our schools devote Sunday to missionary effort. I was
instructed that they would thus be able to defeat the purposes of the enemy. Let the teachers take
the students with them to hold meetings for those who know not the truth. Thus they will
accomplish much more than they could in any other way.God has given us plain directions
regarding our work. We are to proclaim the truth in regard to the Sabbath of the Lord, to make
up the breach that has been made in His law. We are to do all that we can to enlighten those in
ignorance; but we are never to confederate with men of the world in order to receive financial
assistance.Of the children of Israel we read: “Wherefore I caused them to go forth out of the land
of Egypt, and brought them into the wilderness. And I gave them My statutes, and showed them
My judgments, which if a man do, he shall even live in them. Moreover also I gave them My
Sabbaths, to be a sign between Me and them, that they might know that I am the Lord that
sanctify them. But the house of Israel rebelled against Me in the wilderness: they walked not in
My statutes, and they despised My judgments, which if a man do, he shall even live in them; and
My Sabbaths they greatly polluted: then I said, I would pour out My fury upon them in the
wilderness, to consume them.“But I wrought for My name's sake, that it should not be polluted
before the heathen, in whose sight I brought them out. Yet also I lifted up My hand unto them in
the wilderness, that I would not bring them into the land which I had given them, flowing with
milk and honey, which is the glory of all lands; because they despised My judgments, and
walked not in My statutes, but polluted My Sabbaths: for their heart went after their idols.
Nevertheless Mine eye spared them from destroying them, neither did I make an end of them in
the wilderness. But I said unto their children in the wilderness, Walk ye not in the statutes of
your fathers, neither observe their judgments, nor defile yourselves with their idols: I am the
Lord your God; walk in My statutes, and keep My judgments, and do them; and hallow My
Sabbaths; and they shall be a sign between Me and you, that ye may know that I am the Lord
your God.” Ezekiel 20:10-20.The Sabbath is the Lord's test, and no man, be he king, priest, or
ruler, is authorized to come between God and man. Those who seek to be conscience for their
fellow men, place themselves above God. Those who are under the influence of a false religion,
who observe a spurious rest day, will set aside the most positive evidence in regard to the true
Sabbath. They will try to compel men to obey the laws of their own creation, laws that are
directly opposed to the law of God. Upon those who continue in this course, the wrath of God
will fall. Unless they change, they cannot escape the penalty.The law for the observance of the
first day of the week is the production of an apostate Christendom. Sunday is a child of the
papacy, exalted by the Christian world above the sacred day of God's rest. In no case are God's
people to pay it homage. But I wish them to understand that they are not doing God's will by
braving opposition when He wishes them to avoid it. Thus they create prejudice so bitter that it is
impossible for the truth to be proclaimed. Make no demonstration on Sunday in defiance of law.
If this is done in one place, and you are humiliated, the same thing will be done in another place.
We can use Sunday as a day on which to carry forward work that will tell on the side of Christ.
We are to do our best, working with all meekness and lowliness.Christ warned His disciples in
regard to what they would meet in their work as evangelists. He knew what their sufferings
would be, what trials and hardships they would be called upon to bear. He would not hide from
them the knowledge of what they would have to encounter, lest trouble, coming unexpectedly,
should shake their faith. “I have told you before it come to pass,” He said, “that, when it is come
to pass, ye might believe.” John 14:29. Their faith was to be strengthened, rather than weakened,
by the coming of trial. They would say to one another: “He told us that this would come, and
what we must do to meet it.”“Behold,” Christ said, “I send you forth as sheep in the midst of
wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” “Ye shall be hated of all men
for My name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.” Matthew 10:16, 22. They
hated Christ without a cause. Is it any marvel that they hate those who bear His sign, who do His
service? They are counted as the offscouring of the earth.“When they persecute you in this city,
flee ye into another.” It is not the will of God that your lives shall be carelessly sacrificed.
“Verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be
come.” Verse 23.The people must be given the truth, straightforward, positive truth. But this
truth is to be presented in the spirit of Christ. We are to be as sheep in the midst of wolves. Those
who will not, for Christ's sake, observe the cautions He has given, who will not exercise patience
and self-control, will lose precious opportunities of working for the Master. The Lord has not
given His people the work of making a tirade against those who are transgressing His law. In no
case are we to make a raid on the other churches. Let us remember that, as a people entrusted
with sacred truth, we have been neglectful and positively unfaithful. The work has been confined
to a few centers until the people in them have become gospel-hardened. It is difficult to make an
impression on those who have heard so much truth, and yet have rejected it....All this is against
us now. Had we put forth earnest efforts to reach those who, if converted, would give a true
representation of what present truth would do for human beings, how much further advanced our
work would now be. It is not right that a few places should have all the advantages while other
places are neglected.*****At our Avondale school, near Cooranbong, Australia, the Sunday
labor question came up for decision. It seemed as if the lines were soon to be drawn so tightly
about us that we should not be able to work during Sunday. Our school was situated in the heart
of the woods, far from any village or railway station. No one was living near enough to us to be
disturbed in any way by anything we might do. Nevertheless, we were watched. The officers
were urged to come around to inspect our premises, and they did come. They could have seen
many things if they had desired to prosecute us, but they did not appear to notice those who were
at work. They had so much confidence in us as a people, and so great respect for us on account
of the work we had done in that community, that they believed they could trust us
anywhere.Many recognized the fact that the whole community had been transformed since we
went there. A woman who was not a Sabbathkeeper said to me: “You would not believe me if I
should inform you fully in regard to the transformation that has taken place in this community as
the result of your moving here, establishing a school, and holding these little meetings.”So when
our brethren were threatened with persecution and thrown into perplexity in regard to what they
should do, the same advice was given as was given in answer to the question concerning games.
I said: “Employ Sunday in doing missionary work for God. Teachers, go with your students.
Take them into the bush [this is what we called the sparsely settled districts in the woods, where
houses are often a mile or two apart], and visit the people in their homes. Let them know that you
are interested in their soul's salvation.” They did so and, as the result, were greatly benefited
themselves and were able to help others as well. The blessing of God rested upon them as they
diligently searched the Scriptures in order to learn how to present the truths of the word in such a
way that these truths would be received with favor.August 20, 1903.*****At one time those in
charge of our school at Avondale inquired of me, saying: “What shall we do? The officers of the
law have been commissioned to arrest those working on Sunday.” I replied: “It will be very easy
to avoid that difficulty. Give Sunday to the Lord as a day for doing missionary work. Take the
students out to hold meetings in different places, and to do medical missionary work. They will
find the people at home and will have a splendid opportunity to present the truth. This way of
spending Sunday is always acceptable to the Lord.”*****We are to do all we can to remove the
prejudice that exists in the minds of many against our work and against the Bible
Sabbath.*****Teach the people to conform in all things to the laws of their state when they can
do so without conflicting with the law of God.*****Sometimes the hearts of persecutors are
susceptible of divine impressions as was the heart of the apostle Paul before his conversion.

Chapter 29—Words of Caution

Christ said to His disciples: “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye
therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” Matthew 10:16. Satan's attacks against the
advocates of the truth will wax more bitter and determined to the very close of time. As in
Christ's day the chief priests and rulers stirred up the people against Him, so today the religious
leaders will excite bitterness and prejudice against the truth for this time. The people will be led
to acts of violence and opposition which they would never have thought of had they not been
imbued with the animosity of professed Christians against the truth.What course shall the
advocates of truth pursue? They have the unchangeable, eternal word of God, and they should
reveal the fact that they have the truth as it is in Jesus. Their words must not be rugged and sharp.
In their presentation of truth they must manifest the love and meekness and gentleness of Christ.
Let the truth do the cutting; the word of God is as a sharp, two-edged sword and will cut its way
to the heart. Those who know that they have the truth should not, by the use of harsh and severe
expressions, give Satan one chance to misinterpret their spirit.As a people we must stand as did
the world's Redeemer. When in controversy with Satan in regard to the body of Moses, Christ
durst not bring against him a railing accusation. He had every provocation to do this, and Satan
was disappointed because he could not arouse in Christ a spirit of retaliation. Satan was ready to
misinterpret everything that was done by Jesus; and the Saviour would give him no occasion, not
the semblance of an excuse. He would not turn from His straightforward course of truth in order
to follow the wanderings and twistings and turnings and prevarications of Satan.We read in the
prophecy of Zechariah that when Satan with all his synagogue stood up to resist the prayers of
Joshua the high priest, and to resist Christ, who was about to show decided favor to Joshua: “The
Lord said unto Satan, The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan; even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem
rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire?” Zechariah 3:2.The course of Christ in
dealing even with the adversary of souls should be an example to us in all our intercourse with
others never to bring a railing accusation against any; much less should we employ harshness or
severity toward those who may be as anxious to know the right way as we are ourselves.Those
who have been educated in the truth by precept and example should make great allowance for
others who have had no knowledge of the Scriptures except through the interpretations given by
ministers and church members, and who have received traditions and fables as Bible truth. They
are surprised by the presentation of truth, it is as a new revelation to them, and they cannot bear
to have all the truth, in its most striking character, presented to them at the outset. All is new and
strange, and wholly unlike that which they have heard from their ministers; and they are inclined
to believe what the ministers have told them—that Seventh-day Adventists are infidels and do
not believe the Bible. Let the truth be presented as it is in Jesus, line upon line, precept upon
precept, here a little and there a little.Let not those who write for our papers make unkind thrusts
and allusions that will certainly do harm and that will hedge up the way and hinder us from doing
the work that we should do in order to reach all classes, the Catholics included. It is our work to
speak the truth in love and not to mix in with the truth the unsanctified elements of the natural
heart and speak things that savor of the same spirit possessed by our enemies. All sharp thrusts
will come back upon us in double measure when the power is in the hands of those who can
exercise it for injury. Over and over the message has been given to me that we are not to say one
word, not to publish one sentence, especially by way of personalities, unless positively essential
in vindicating the truth, that will stir up our enemies against us and arouse their passions to a
white heat. Our work will soon be closed up, and soon the time of trouble, such as never was,
will come upon us, of which we have but little idea.The Lord wants His workers to represent
Him, the great Missionary Worker. The manifestation of rashness always does harm. The
proprieties essential for Christian life must be learned daily in the school of Christ. He who is
careless and heedless in uttering words or in writing words for publication to be sent broadcast
into the world, sending forth expressions that can never be taken back, is disqualifying himself to
be entrusted with the sacred work that devolves upon Christ's followers at this time. Those who
practice giving harsh thrusts are forming habits that will strengthen by repetition and will have to
be repented of.We should carefully examine our ways and our spirit, and see in what manner we
are doing the work given us of God, which involves the destiny of souls. The very highest
obligation is resting upon us. Satan is standing ready, burning with zeal to inspire the whole
confederacy of satanic agencies, that he may cause them to unite with evil men and bring upon
the believers of truth speedy and severe suffering. Every unwise word that is uttered through our
brethren will be treasured up by the prince of darkness.I should like to ask: How dare finite
human intelligences speak careless and venturesome words that will stir up the powers of hell
against the saints of God, when Michael the Archangel durst not bring against Satan a railing
accusation, but said: “The Lord rebuke thee”? Jude 1:9.It will be impossible for us to avoid
difficulties and suffering. Jesus said: “Woe unto the world because of offenses! for it must needs
be that offenses come; but woe to that man by whom the offense cometh!” Matthew 18:7. But
because offense will come, we should be careful not to stir up the natural temperament of those
who love not the truth, by unwise words and by the manifestation of an unkind spirit.Precious
truth must be presented in its native force. The deceptive errors that are widespread, and that are
leading the world captive, are to be unveiled. Every effort possible is being made to ensnare
souls with subtle reasonings, to turn them from the truth to fables, and to prepare them to be
deceived by strong delusions. But while these deceived souls turn from the truth to error, do not
speak to them one word of censure. Seek to show these poor, deluded souls their danger and to
reveal to them how grievous is their course of action toward Jesus Christ; but let it all be done in
pitying tenderness. By a proper manner of labor some of the souls who are ensnared by Satan
may be recovered from his power. But do not blame and condemn them. To ridicule the position
held by those who are in error will not open their blind eyes nor attract them to the truth.When
men lose sight of Christ's example and do not pattern after His manner of teaching, they become
self-sufficient and go forth to meet Satan with his own manner of weapons. The enemy knows
well how to turn his weapons upon those who use them. Jesus spoke only words of pure truth
and righteousness.If ever a people needed to walk in humility before God, it is His church, His
chosen ones in this generation. We all need to bewail the dullness of our intellectual faculties, the
lack of appreciation of our privileges and opportunities. We have nothing whereof to boast. We
grieve the Lord Jesus Christ by our harshness, by our un-Christlike thrusts. We need to become
complete in Him.It is true that we are commanded to “cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a
trumpet, and show My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.” Isaiah 58:1.
This message must be given; but while it must be given, we should be careful not to thrust and
crowd and condemn those who have not the light that we have. We should not go out of our way
to make hard thrusts at the Catholics. Among the Catholics there are many who are most
conscientious Christians and who walk in all the light that shines upon them, and God will work
in their behalf. Those who have had great privileges and opportunities, and who have failed to
improve their physical, mental, and moral powers, but who have lived to please themselves and
have refused to bear their responsibility, are in greater danger and in greater condemnation
before God than those who are in error upon doctrinal points, yet who seek to live to do good to
others. Do not censure others; do not condemn them.If we allow selfish considerations, false
reasoning, and false excuses to bring us into a perverse state of mind and heart, so that we shall
not know the ways and will of God, we shall be far more guilty than the open sinner. We need to
be very cautious in order that we may not condemn those who, before God, are less guilty than
ourselves.*****Let everyone bear in mind that we are in no case to invite persecution. We are
not to use harsh and cutting words. Keep them out of every article written, drop them out of
every address given. Let the word of God do the cutting, the rebuking; let finite men hide and
abide in Jesus Christ. Let the spirit of Christ appear. Let all be guarded in their words, lest they
place those not of our faith in deadly opposition against us and give Satan an opportunity to use
the unadvised words to hedge up our way. There is to be a time of trouble such as never was
since there was a nation. Our work is to study to weed out of all our discourses everything that
savors of retaliation and defiance and making a drive against churches and individuals, because
this is not Christ's way and method.*****The fact that God's people, who know the truth, have
failed to do their duty according to the light given in the word of God makes it a necessity for us
to be the more guarded, lest we offend unbelievers before they have heard the reasons for our
faith in regard to the Sabbath and Sunday.