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Evangelism
Use Only Sound Arguments—It is important that in defending
the doctrines which we consider fundamental articles of faith, we
should never allow ourselves to employ arguments that are not wholly
sound. These may avail to silence an opposer, but they do not honor the
truth. We should present sound arguments, that will not only silence
our opponents, but will bear the closest and most searching scrutiny.
With those who have educated themselves as debaters, there is
great danger that they will not handle the Word of God with fairness.
In meeting an opponent, it should be our earnest effort to present
subjects in such a manner as to awaken conviction in his mind, instead
of seeking merely to give confidence to the believer.—
Testimonies For
The Church 5:708
(1889).
Lay Off the Pugilistic Armor—Those who bear the most solemn
message ever given to our world must lay off the pugilistic armor, and
put on the armor of Christ’s righteousness. We have no need to work
in our own finite individuality, for then the angels of God stand back
and leave us to carry on the warfare alone. When will our ministers
learn of Jesus? Our preparation to meet opponents or to minister to
the people must be obtained of God at the throne of heavenly grace.
Here, in receiving the grace of God, our own incompetence is seen
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and acknowledged. The dignity and glory of Christ is our strength.
The Holy Spirit’s guidance leads us into all truth. The Holy Spirit
takes the things of God and shows them unto us, conveying them as a
living power into the obedient heart. We then have the faith that works
by love and purifies the soul, which takes the perfect impress of its
Author.—
Letter 21a, 1895
.
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