Chapter 36—Literature Outreach by Adventists
Distribute Publications Like the Leaves of Autumn—We must
prepare ourselves for most solemn duties. A world is to be saved.
The work is advancing in a most marvelous manner in foreign lands;
and even within the shadows of our doors there are many, many op-
portunities for communicating to others the saving truths of the third
angel’s message. Publications are to be distributed like the leaves of
autumn. [
Church members were to “sell or give away our literature”
(
Manuscript 126, 1902
), or provide by “lending” (
Testimonies for the
Church 9:35
), as the truth was to be carried to the homes of neighbors
and friends and the promise was given, “You will be accompanied by
the light of heaven, which will abide in these homes” (
Manuscript 126,
1902
).] This is the message that has been coming to us from the Lord
for many years. In view of the great work to be done, how can anyone
afford to waste precious time and God-given means in doing those
things that are not for his best good or for the glory of God?—
The
Review and Herald, July 19, 1906
.
Church Members’ Duty to Circulate Literature—We now have
great facilities for spreading the truth; but our people are not coming
up to the privileges given them. They do not in every church see and
feel the necessity of using their abilities in saving souls. They do not
realize their duty to obtain subscribers for our periodicals, including
our health journal, and to introduce our books and pamphlets. Men
should be at work who are willing to be taught as to the best way of
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approaching individuals and families. Their dress should be neat, but
not foppish, and their manners such as not to disgust the people. There
is a great want of true politeness among us as a people. This should be
cultivated by all who take hold of the missionary work.
Our publishing houses should show marked prosperity. Our people
can sustain them if they will show a decided interest to work our
publications into the market. But should as little interest be manifested
in the year to come as has been shown in the year past, there will
be but a small margin to work upon. The wider the circulation of
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