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chanced to see these things of nature, they recalled His words. Christ’s
illustrations constantly repeated His lessons.
Christ never flattered men. He never spoke that which would exalt
their fancies and imaginations, nor did He praise them for their clever
inventions; but deep, unprejudiced thinkers received His teaching, and
found that it tested their wisdom. They marveled at the spiritual truth
expressed in the simplest language. The most highly educated were
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charmed with His words, and the uneducated were always profited.
He had a message for the illiterate; and He made even the heathen to
understand that He had a message for them.
His tender compassion fell with a touch of healing upon weary and
troubled hearts. Even amid the turbulence of angry enemies He was
surrounded with an atmosphere of peace. The beauty of His counte-
nance, the loveliness of His character, above all, the love expressed
in look and tone, drew to Him all who were not hardened in unbelief.
Had it not been for the sweet, sympathetic spirit that shone out in every
look and word, He would not have attracted the large congregations
that He did. The afflicted ones who came to Him, felt that He linked
His interest with theirs as a faithful and tender friend, and they desired
to know more of the truths He taught. Heaven was brought near. They
longed to abide in His presence, that the comfort of His love might be
with them continually.—
The Desire of Ages, 254
(1898).
Attracting and Holding Large Numbers—Those who will study
the manner of Christ’s teaching, and educate themselves to follow His
way, will attract and hold large numbers now, as Christ held the people
in His day.... When the truth in its practical character is urged upon
the people because you love them, souls will be convicted, because
the Holy Spirit of God will impress their hearts.
Arm yourselves with humility; pray that angels of God may come
close to your side to impress the mind; for it is not you that work the
Holy Spirit, but the Holy Spirit must work you. It is the Holy Spirit
that makes the truth impressive. Keep practical truth ever before the
people.—
Testimonies For The Church 6:57
(1900).
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Advantage of Surprise Approach in Some Places—Light was
given me by the Lord that it was not the best plan to make a display
of what we were going to do; for just as soon as our intentions were
made known, our enemies would be roused to block the way. Ministers
would be called into the field to resist the message of truth. Warnings