Wholehearted Attachment to the Church
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The Baptismal Vow
Everyone who connects himself with the church makes in that act
a solemn vow to work for the interest of the church, and to hold that
interest above every worldly consideration. It is his work to preserve
a living connection with God, to engage with heart and soul in the
great scheme of redemption, and to show, in his life and character,
the excellency of God’s commandments in contrast with the customs
and precepts of the world. Every soul that has made a profession
of Christ has pledged himself to be all that it is possible for him to
be as a spiritual worker, to be active, zealous, and efficient in his
Master’s service. Christ expects every man to do his duty; let this be
the watchword throughout the ranks of His followers....
All are to show their fidelity to God by the wise use of His entrusted
capital, not in means alone, but in any endowment that will tend to the
upbuilding of His kingdom. Satan will employ every possible device
to prevent the truth from reaching those who are buried in error; but
the voice of warning and entreaty must come to them. And while
only a few are engaged in this work, thousands ought to be as much
interested as they.—
Testimonies for the Church 5:460-462
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The Task Before Us
There is a world to be warned. To us has been entrusted this
work. At any cost we must practice the truth. We are to stand as
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self-sacrificing minutemen, willing to suffer the loss of life itself, if
need be, in the service of God. There is a great work to be done in a
short time. We need to understand our work, and to do it with fidelity.
Everyone who is finally crowned victor will, by noble, determined
effort to serve God, have earned the right to be clothed with Christ’s
righteousness. To enter the crusade against Satan, bearing aloft the
bloodstained banner of the cross of Christ—this is the duty of every
Christian.
This work calls for self-sacrifice. Self-denial and the cross stand
all along the way of life. “He that will come after Me,” Christ said,
“let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” Those
who secure the treasures of this world are obliged to toil and sacrifice.