Our Responsibility
There are times when a distinct view is presented to me of the
condition of the remnant church, a condition of appalling indifference
to the needs of a world perishing for lack of a knowledge of the truth
for this time. Then I have hours, and sometimes days, of intense
anguish. Many to whom have been committed the saving truths of
the third angel’s message fail of realizing that the salvation of souls is
dependent upon the consecration and activity of God’s church. Many
are using their blessings in the service of self. Oh, how my heart aches
because Christ is put to shame by their un-Christlike behavior! But,
after the agony is past, I feel like working harder than ever to arouse
them to put forth unselfish effort for the saving of their fellow men.
God has made His people stewards of His grace and truth, and how
does He regard their neglect to impart these blessings to their fellow
men? Let us suppose that a distant colony belonging to Great Britain
is in great distress because of famine and threatened war. Multitudes
are dying of starvation, and a powerful enemy is gathering on the
frontier, threatening to hasten the work of death. The government at
home opens its stores; public charity pours forth; relief flows through
many channels. A fleet is freighted with the precious means of life
and is sent to the scene of suffering, accompanied by the prayers of
those whose hearts are stirred to help. And for a time the fleet sails
directly for its destination. But, having lost sight of land, the ardor
of those entrusted with carrying food to the starving sufferers abates.
Though engaged in a work that makes them colaborers with angels,
they lose the good impressions with which they started forth. Through
evil counselors, temptation enters.
A group of islands lies in their course, and, though far short of
[25]
their destination, they decide to call. The temptation that has already
entered grows stronger. The selfish spirit of gain takes possession
of their minds. Mercantile advantages present themselves. Those in
charge of the fleet are prevailed on to remain on the islands. Their
original purpose of mercy fades from their sight. They forget the
28