Chapter 1—The Object of Our Publications
A Decisive Message—The power and efficiency of our work de-
pend largely on the character of the literature that comes from our
presses. Therefore great care should be exercised in the choice and
preparation of the matter that is to go to the world. The greatest caution
and discrimination are needed. Our energies should be devoted to the
publication of literature of the purest quality and the most elevating
character. Our periodicals must go forth laden with truth that has a
vital, spiritual interest for the people.
God has placed in our hands a banner upon which is inscribed,
“Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the com-
mandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.”
Revelation 14:12
. This is
a distinct, separating message,—a message that is to give no uncertain
sound. It is to lead the people away from the broken cisterns that
contain no water, to the unfailing Fountain of the water of life.
Our publications have a most sacred work to do in making clear,
simple, and plain the spiritual basis of our faith. Everywhere the people
are taking sides; all are ranging themselves either under the banner of
truth and righteousness or under the banner of the apostate powers that
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are contending for the supremacy. At this time God’s message to the
world is to be given with such prominence and power that the people
will be brought face to face, mind to mind, heart to heart, with truth.
They must be brought to see its superiority over the multitudinous
errors that are pushing their way into notice, to supplant, if possible,
the word of God for this solemn time.
The great object of our publications is to exalt God, to call men’s
attention to the living truths of His word. God calls upon us to lift up,
not our own standard, not the standard of this world, but His standard
of truth.
It is only as we do this that His prospering hand can be with us.
Consider God’s dealings with His people in the past. Notice how,
while they carried His banner, He exalted them before their enemies.
But when in self-exaltation they departed from their allegiance, when
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