Chapter 25—Literature in the Closing Work
The End of All Things at Hand—The great and wonderful work
of the last gospel message is to be carried on now as it has never
been before. The world is to receive the light of truth through an
evangelizing ministry of the Word in our books and periodicals. Our
publications are to show that the end of all things is at hand. I am
bidden to say to our publishing houses: “Lift up the standard; lift it
up higher. Proclaim the third angel’s message, that it may be heard
by all the world. Let it be seen that ‘here are they that keep the
commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.’
Revelation 14:12
. Let
our literature give the message as a witness to all the world.”
Our workers should now be encouraged to give their first attention
to books that deal with the evidences of our faith,—books that teach
the doctrines of the Bible, and that will prepare a people to stand in
the trying times before us.—
Testimonies for the Church 9:61
(1909).
Enlightening the Earth—In a large degree through our publishing
houses is to be accomplished the work of that other angel who comes
down from heaven with great power, and who lightens the earth with
[178]
his glory.—
Testimonies for the Church 7:140
(1902).
Specific Objectives of Our Literature—Our publishing work
was established by the direction of God and under His special supervi-
sion. It was designed to accomplish a specific purpose. Seventh-day
Adventists have been chosen by God as a peculiar people, separate
from the world. By the great cleaver of truth He has cut them out
from the quarry of the world, and brought them into connection with
Himself. He has made them His representatives, and has called them
to be ambassadors for Him in the last work of salvation. The greatest
wealth of truth ever entrusted to mortals, the most solemn and fearful
warnings ever sent by God to man, have been committed to them to
be given to the world; and in the accomplishment of this work our
publishing houses are among the most effective agencies....
Startling Messages—The publications sent forth from our print-
ing houses are to prepare a people to meet God. Throughout the world
118