Preaching on Nonimmortality
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the nonimmortality of the soul out of Christ, feel all stirred up to
give a discourse on that very subject. This the hearers are in no way
prepared to receive, and it only increases their prejudice and stirs up
their opposition. Thus all the good impressions that might have been
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made if the worker had pursued a wise course are lost. The hearers
are confirmed in their unbelief. Hearts might have been won, but the
combative armor was put on. Strong meat was thrust upon them and
the souls that might have been won were driven farther off than before.
The combative armor, the debating spirit, must be laid off. If we
would be Christlike we must reach men where they are.—
Manuscript
104, 1898
.
Correct Understanding Vital—A correct understanding of “what
saith the Scriptures” in regard to the state of the dead is essential for
this time. God’s Word declares that the dead know not anything, their
hatred and love have alike perished. We must come to the sure word of
prophecy for our authority. Unless we are intelligent in the Scriptures,
may we not, when this mighty miracle-working power of Satan is
manifested in our world, be deceived and call it the workings of God;
for the Word of God declares that, if it were possible, the very elect
should be deceived. Unless we are rooted and grounded in the truth,
we shall be swept away by Satan’s delusive snares. We must cling to
our Bibles. If Satan can make you believe that there are things in the
Word of God that are not inspired, he will then be prepared to ensnare
your soul. We shall have no assurance, no certainty, at the very time
we need to know what is truth.—
The Review and Herald, December
18, 1888
.