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Christian Service
a personal effort to bring even one soul to the Saviour. They leave all
the work for the minister. He may be well qualified for his calling, but
he cannot do that which God has left for the members of the church.
There are many who need the ministration of loving Christian
hearts. Many have gone down to ruin who might have been saved,
if their neighbors, common men and women, had put forth personal
effort for them. Many are waiting to be personally addressed. In the
very family, the neighborhood, the town where we live, there is work
for us to do as missionaries for Christ. If we are Christians, this work
will be our delight. No sooner is one converted than there is born
within him a desire to make known to others what a precious friend he
has found in Jesus. The saving and sanctifying truth cannot be shut up
in his heart.—
The Desire of Ages, 141
.
One of the most effective ways in which light can be communicated
is by private personal effort. In the home circle, at your neighbor’s
fireside, at the bedside of the sick, in a quiet way you may read the
Scriptures and speak a word for Jesus and the truth. Thus you may sow
precious seed that will spring up and bring forth fruit.—
Testimonies
for the Church 6:428, 429
.
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Salt must be mingled with the substance to which it is added; it
must penetrate and infuse in order to preserve. So it is through personal
contact and association that men are reached by the saving power of
the gospel. They are not saved in masses, but as individuals. Personal
influence is a power. We must come close to those whom we desire to
benefit.—
Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 36
.
Jesus saw in every soul one to whom must be given the call to
His kingdom. He reached the hearts of the people by going among
them as one who desired their good. He sought them in the public
streets, in private houses, on the boats, in the synagogue, by the
shores of the lake, and at the marriage feast. He met them at their
daily vocations, and manifested an interest in their secular affairs. He
carried His instruction into the household, bringing families in their
own homes under the influence of His divine presence. His strong
personal sympathy helped to win hearts.—
The Desire of Ages, 151
.
Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people.
The Saviour mingled with men as one who desired their good. He
showed His sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won