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Testimonies for the Church Volume 6
This condition of weakness must not continue. Well-organized
work must be done in the church, that its members may understand
how to impart the light to others and thus strengthen their own faith
and increase their knowledge. As they impart that which they have
received from God they will be confirmed in the faith. A working
church is a living church. We are built up as living stones, and every
stone is to emit light. Every Christian is compared to a precious stone
that catches the glory of God and reflects it.
The idea that the minister must carry all the burdens and do all the
work is a great mistake. Overworked and broken down, he may go
into the grave, when, had the burden been shared as the Lord designed,
he might have lived. That the burden may be distributed, an education
must be given to the church by those who can teach the workers to
follow Christ and to work as He worked.
The Youth to be Missionaries
Let not the youth be ignored; let them share in the labor and
responsibility. Let them feel that they have a part to act in helping and
blessing others. Even the children should be taught to do little errands
of love and mercy for those less fortunate than themselves.
Let the overseers of the church devise plans whereby young men
and women may be trained to put to use their entrusted talents. Let the
older members of the church seek to do earnest, compassionate work
for the children and youth. Let ministers put to use all their ingenuity in
devising plans whereby the younger members of the church may be led
to co-operate with them in missionary work. But do not imagine that
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you can arouse their interest merely by preaching a long sermon at the
missionary meeting. Plan ways whereby a live interest may be kindled.
Let all have a part to act. Train the young to do what is appointed them,
and from week to week let them bring their reports to the missionary
meeting, telling what they have experienced and through the grace of
Christ what success has been theirs. If such reports were brought in by
consecrated workers, the missionary meetings would not be dull and
tedious. They would be full of interest, and there would be no lack in
attendance.
In every church the members should be so trained that they will
devote time to the winning of souls to Christ. How can it be said of