476
Evangelism
of souls. The form of sound words in religious teaching, sustained
by a “Thus saith the Lord,” will have a saving influence. A physician
[545]
can so express himself that he will be invited to speak before various
companies, and will be received. As a teacher, a physician can watch
his opportunities, for the Word of God is to go freely.—
Letter 4, 1910
.
Singular Opportunities of Missionary Nurses—In every place
where the truth is presented, earnest efforts should be made from the
first to preach the gospel to the poor and to heal the sick. This work,
faithfully done, will add to the church many souls of such as shall be
saved.
Those who engage in house-to-house labor will find opportunities
for ministry in many lines. They should pray for the sick, and should
do all in their power to relieve them from suffering. They should work
among the lowly, the poor, and the oppressed. We should pray for
and with the helpless ones who have not strength of will to control
the appetites that passion has degraded. Earnest, persevering effort
must be made for the salvation of those in whose hearts an interest is
awakened. Many can be reached only through acts of disinterested
kindness. Their physical wants must first be relieved. As they see
evidence of our unselfish love, it will be easier for them to believe in
the love of Christ.
Missionary nurses are best qualified for this work; but others should
be connected with them. These, although not specially educated and
trained in nursing, can learn from their fellow workers the best manner
of labor.—
Testimonies For The Church 6:83, 84
(1900).
Reaching the Higher Classes—Physicians whose professional
abilities are above those of the common worker, should be engaged in
the service of God in large cities. They should seek to reach the higher
[546]
classes....
Medical missionaries who labor in evangelistic lines are doing a
work of as high an order as are their ministerial fellow laborers. This
kind of medical work, combined with ministerial work, is not to be
limited to the poorer classes. The higher classes have been strangely
passed by. In the higher walks of life will be found many who will
respond to the truth because it is consistent, bearing the stamp of
the high character of the gospel. Not a few men of ability will enter
energetically into the work. Using their God-given talents, they will
be producers, as well as consumers.