150
Evangelism
an example. “Yet Michael the Archangel, when contending with the
devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him
a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.”—
Testimonies
For The Church 3:218-220
(1872).
Controversial Spirit Lays Weak Foundation—The spirit of de-
bate, of controversy, is a device of Satan to stir up combativeness, and
thus eclipse the truth as it is in Jesus. Many have thus been repulsed
instead of being won to Christ....
A controversial spirit is encouraged. Many dwell almost exclu-
sively upon doctrinal subjects, while the nature of true piety, experi-
mental Godliness, receives little attention. Jesus, His love and grace,
His self-denial and self-sacrifice, His meekness and forbearance, are
not brought before the people as they should be. The errors existing
everywhere have, like parasites, fastened their deadly poison upon the
boughs of truth and in many minds have become identified with it;
many who accept the truth teach it in a harsh spirit. A false conception
[164]
of it is given to the people, and the truth is made of no effect to those
whose hearts are not softened and subdued by the Holy Spirit....
It is essential for all to discern and appreciate the truth; therefore
it is of the greatest importance that the seed of the Word should fall
into soil prepared for its reception. The question with us individually
should be, How shall we sow the precious seed of truth so that it shall
not be lost, but spring up and produce a harvest, that sheaves may be
brought to the master?—
The Review and Herald, February 9, 1892
.
Danger of Excitement and Rapid Decision—If the interest
steadily increases, and the people move understandingly, not from
impulse, but from principle, the interest is much more healthy and
durable than it is where a great excitement and interest are created
suddenly, and the feelings are excited by listening to a debate, a sharp
contest on both sides of the question, for and against the truth. Fierce
opposition is thus created, positions are taken, and rapid decisions
made. A feverish state of things is the result. Calm consideration and
judgment are wanting. Let this excitement subside, or let reaction take
place by indiscreet management, and the interest can never be raised
again. The feelings and sympathies of the people were stirred, but
their consciences were not convicted, their hearts were not broken and
humbled before God.—
Testimonies For The Church 3:218
(1872).