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Testimonies for the Church Volume 3
holy principles laid down to meet the approval of any class, however
popular. If the standard of truth and holiness is lowered, the design of
God will not then be carried out in this institution.
But our peculiar faith should not be discussed with patients. Their
minds should not be unnecessarily excited upon subjects wherein we
differ, unless they themselves desire it; and then great caution should
be observed not to agitate the mind by urging upon them our peculiar
faith. The Health Institute is not the place to be forward to enter into
discussion upon points of our faith wherein we differ with the religious
world generally. Prayer meetings are held at the Institute in which all
may take part if they choose, but there is an abundance to dwell upon
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in regard to Bible religion without touching objectionable points of
difference. Silent influence will do more than open controversy.
In exhortation in the prayer meetings some Sabbathkeepers have
felt that they must bring in the Sabbath and the third angel’s message
or they could not have freedom. This is characteristic of narrow minds.
Patients not acquainted with our faith do not know what is meant by
the third angel’s message. The introduction of these terms without a
clear explanation of them does only harm. We must meet the people
where they are, and yet we need not sacrifice one principle of the truth.
The prayer meeting will prove a blessing to patients, helpers, and
physicians. Brief and interesting seasons of prayer and social worship
will increase the confidence of patients in their physicians and helpers.
The helpers should not be deprived of these meetings by work unless
it is positively necessary. They need them and should enjoy them.
By thus establishing regular meetings the patients gain confidence
in the Institute and feel more at home. And thus the way is prepared for
the seed of truth to take root in some hearts. These meetings especially
interest some who profess to be Christians and make a favorable
impression upon those who do not. Mutual confidence is increased
in one another, and prejudice is weakened and in many cases entirely
removed. Then there is an anxiety to attend the Sabbath meeting.
There, in the house of God, is the place to speak our denominational
sentiments. There the minister can dwell with clearness upon the
essential points of present truth and with the spirit of Christ, in love
and tenderness, urge home upon all the necessity of obedience to all
the requirements of God, and let the truth convict hearts.