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Evangelism
did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Notice how quickly
prejudice arises. Nathanael says, “Can there any good thing come
out of Nazareth?” Philip knew the strong prejudice that existed in the
minds of many against Nazareth, and he did not try to argue with him,
for fear of raising his combativeness, but simply said, “Come and see.”
Here is a lesson for all our ministers, colporteurs, and missionary
workers. When you meet those, who, like Nathanael, are prejudiced
against the truth, do not urge your peculiar views too strongly. Talk
with them at first of subjects upon which you can agree. Bow with
them in prayer, and in humble faith present your petitions at the throne
of grace. Both you and they will be brought into a closer connection
with heaven, prejudice will be weakened, and it will be easier to reach
the heart.—
Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh-
day Adventists, 149
(1886).