Interest-Holding Features
137
to be reminded by them of the time when this home shall be restored,
and the earth shall be filled with the praise of the Lord.—
Letter 213,
1902
.
He Held Their Interest—The people listened to the words of
mercy flowing so freely from the lips of the Son of God. They heard
the gracious words, so simple and so plain that they were as the balm
of Gilead to their souls. The healing of His divine hand brought
gladness and life to the dying, and ease and health to those suffering
with disease. The day seemed to them like heaven upon earth, and
they were utterly unconscious of how long it had been since they had
eaten anything....
He who taught the people the way to secure peace and happiness
was just as thoughtful of their temporal necessities as of their spiritual
need. The people were weary and faint. There were mothers with
babes in their arms, and little children clinging to their skirts. Many
had been standing for hours. They had been so intensely interested
in Christ’s words that they had not once thought of sitting down, and
the crowd was so great that there was danger of their trampling on one
another. Jesus would give them a chance to rest, and He bade them
sit down. There was much grass in the place, and all could rest in
comfort.—
The Desire of Ages, 365, 366
(1898).
[150]
An Effective Interest-holding Program—There was given me
another sight. Tents were taken to different places during camp meet-
ing season. Camp meetings were held in different locations. These
were conducted by able, God-fearing men, having suitable helpers.
There were children’s meetings and revival meetings and an earnest
effort to bring the people to a decision. A Paul may plant, an Apollos
water, but God giveth the increase....
Let the talent of singing be brought into the work. The use of
musical instruments is not at all objectionable. These were used in
religious services in ancient times. The worshipers praised God upon
the harp and cymbal, and music should have its place in our services.
It will add to the interest.
But hold the attention of the people by presenting before them the
truth as it is in Jesus. Keep before them the cross of Calvary. What
called for the death of Christ? The transgression of the law. Christ died
to give men an opportunity to become loyal subjects of His kingdom.