122
Christian Service
sermons delivered in the open air, to the moving throng, or even in
halls or churches.—
Gospel Workers, 193
.
The example of Christ in linking Himself with the interests of
humanity should be followed by all who preach His word, and by all
who have received the gospel of His grace. We are not to renounce
social communion. We should not seclude ourselves from others. In
order to reach all classes, we must meet them where they are. They
will seldom seek us of their own accord. Not alone from the pulpit
[123]
are the hearts of men touched by divine truth. There is another field
of labor, humbler, it may be, but fully as promising. It is found in the
home of the lowly, and in the mansion of the great; at the hospitable
board, and in gatherings for innocent social enjoyment.—
The Desire
of Ages, 152
.
Christ was not exclusive, and He had given special offense to the
Pharisees by departing in this respect from their rigid rules. He found
the domain of religion fenced in by high walls of seclusion, as too
sacred a matter for everyday life. These walls of partition He overthrew.
In His contact with men He did not ask, What is your creed? To what
church do you belong? He exercised His helping power in behalf
of all who needed help. Instead of secluding Himself in a hermit’s
cell in order to show His heavenly character, He labored earnestly
for humanity. He inculcated the principle that Bible religion does
not consist in the mortification of the body. He taught that pure and
undefiled religion is not meant only for set times and special occasions.
At all times and in all places He manifested a loving interest in men,
and shed about Him the light of a cheerful piety.—
The Desire of Ages,
86
.
In face of their prejudices He accepted the hospitality of this de-
spised people. He slept under their roofs, ate with them at their tables,—
partaking of the food prepared and served by their hands,—taught in
their streets, and treated them with the utmost kindness and courtesy.—
The Desire of Ages, 193
.
Manifest Sympathetic Interest
Those who are fighting the battle of life at great odds may be
refreshed and strengthened by little attentions which cost nothing.
Kindly words simply spoken, little attentions simply bestowed, will