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Pastoral Ministry
people would take hold of these encouragements, and thanksgiving
and praise would flow from human lips. Encouragement and hope
would come to many souls who are now weary and discouraged. If
our people would realise the possibilities that lie in increased faith
and prayer, there would be a decided change in our churches. Those
who are now downcast and worried, would be lifted up from their
discouragements, and would rejoice in the Lord. Brethren and sisters,
let us show that we have a living hope, that our service is a living
service.—
(Australasian) Union Conference Record, April 29, 1907
.
Plead for the warmth of Christ’s love—Ministers too often act
the part of critics, showing their aptness and sharpness in controversy.
Sabbath after Sabbath passes away, and scarcely an impression of the
grace of Christ is made upon the upon the hearts and minds of the
hearers. Thus the ministry comes to be regarded as unimportant. All
heaven is working for the salvation of sinners; and when the poorest
of the human family comes with repentance to his Father, as did the
prodigal son, there is joy among the heavenly host. There is warmth
and courtesy and love in heaven. Let ministers go before God in
prayer, confessing their sins, and with all the simplicity of a little
child ask for the blessings that they need. Plead for the warmth of
Christ’s love, and then bring it into your discourses; and let no one
have occasion to go away and say that the doctrines you believe unfit
you for expressing sympathy with suffering humanity—that you have
a loveless religion.—
Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers,
153, 154
.
Conviction
Christ’s messages pierced the conscience and revealed the in-
most thoughts—When Christ preached, His message was like a sharp,
two-edged sword, piercing the consciences of men and revealing their
inmost thoughts. The work that Christ did His faithful messengers
will have to do. In simplicity, purity, and the strictest integrity they
are to preach the Word. Those who labor in word or doctrine are to
be faithful to their charge. They are to watch for souls as they that
must give an account. Never are they to clothe a “Thus saith the Lord”
with enticing words of man’s wisdom. Thus they destroy its living
energy, making it weak and powerless, so that it fails to convict of sin.