Chapter 7—Co-Workers with Christ
It was an important time for-----during and after the tent meeting
in 1874. Had there been a pleasant and commodious house of worship
there, more than double the number that were really gained would
have taken their stand for the truth. God works with our efforts. We
may close the way for sinners by our negligence and selfishness. There
should have been great diligence in seeking to save those who were
still in error, yet interested in the truth. Just as wise generalship is
needed in the service of Christ as is needed over the battalions of an
army that protects the life and liberty of the people. It is not everyone
who can labor judiciously for the salvation of souls. There is much
close thinking to be done. We must not enter into the Lord’s work
haphazard and expect success. The Lord needs men of mind, men
of thought. Jesus calls for co-workers, not blunderers. God wants
right-thinking and intelligent men to do the great work necessary to
the salvation of souls.
Mechanics, lawyers, merchants, men of all trades and professions,
educate themselves that they may become masters of their business.
Should the followers of Christ be less intelligent, and while profess-
edly engaged in His service be ignorant of the ways and means to
be employed? The enterprise of gaining everlasting life is above ev-
ery earthly consideration. In order to lead souls to Jesus there must
be a knowledge of human nature and a study of the human mind.
Much careful thought and fervent prayer are required to know how to
approach men and women upon the great subject of truth.
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Some rash, impulsive, yet honest souls, after a pointed discourse
has been given, will accost those who are not with us in a very abrupt
manner, and make the truth, which we desire them to receive, repulsive
to them. “The children of this world are in their generation wiser than
the children of light.” Business men and politicians study courtesy.
It is their policy to make themselves as attractive as possible. They
study to render their address and manners such that they may have the
greatest influence over the minds of those about them. They use their
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