Assimilating New Members
215
continually before the people. In enlightening and confirming souls
in the truth, the publications will do a far greater work than can be
accomplished by the ministry of the Word alone.—
Testimonies for the
Church 6:315
.
Four neglected areas of instruction—Ministers frequently ne-
glect these important branches of the work,—health reform, spiritual
gifts, systematic benevolence, and the great branches of the missionary
work. Under their labors large numbers may embrace the theory of the
truth, but in time it is found that there are many who will not bear the
proving of God. The minister laid upon the foundation, hay, wood, and
stubble, which would be consumed by the fire of temptation. Some
proved to be gold, silver, and precious stones; these from principle
[207]
would cling to the truth. But if the teacher of truth had brought these
converts along as he should have done, presenting before them the
obligation which rested upon them, many who afterward drew back to
perdition, might have been saved.
Another minister follows the first, and in the fear of God presents
the practical duties, the claims of God upon His people. Some draw
back, saying, “Our minister who brought us the truth did not mention
these things. We have been deceived. These things were kept back.”
And they become offended because of the Word. Some will not accept
the tithing system; they reject systematic benevolence, and become
offended, turn away, and no longer walk with those who believe and
love the truth. When the tract and missionary field is opened before
them, inviting them to work in it, they answer, “It was not so taught
us,” and they hesitate to engage in the work. How much better it would
be for the cause, if the messenger of truth had faithfully and thoroughly
educated these converts in regard to all these essential matters, even if
there were less whom he could number as being added to the church
under his labors.—
The Review and Herald, December 12, 1878
.
Converts Copy Their Minister
When ministers walk with God their converts partake of their
spirit—Converts seldom rise at once in spirituality above the level
of their teachers. How important, then, that those teachers should
habitually put their trust in God, and seek for the manifestations of His
divine power upon their labors; that they should be meek, spiritually-