Chapter 38—Former Members, Inactive Members
Wise efforts should be made to prevent straying and to bring
back those who have strayed—Here were the cases of several who
had backslidden, who had been in darkness, and who had strayed from
the fold. But especially was the case of Brother A prominent. All the
efforts were not made which should have been made in wisdom to
prevent his straying from the fold; and after he had strayed, diligent
efforts were not put forth to bring him back. There was more gossiping
over his case than sincere sorrow for him. All these things kept him
from the fold and caused his heart to be separated farther and farther
from his brethren, making his rescue still more difficult. How different
was this course from that pursued by the shepherd in the parable, when
in pursuit of the lost sheep. The whole ninety and nine were left in
the wilderness to care for themselves, exposed to dangers; yet the lone
sheep, separated from the flock, was in greater danger, and to secure
the one, the ninety and nine were left.—
Testimonies for the Church
2:218
.
Many who have strayed will come back—When the storm of
persecution really breaks upon us, the true sheep will hear the true
Shepherd’s voice. Self-denying efforts will be put forth to save the lost,
and many who have strayed from the fold will come back to follow
the great Shepherd. The people of God will draw together, and present
to the enemy a united front.—
Testimonies for the Church 6:401
.
Find Them
Some ministers, surrounded by backsliders, feel no burden for
their souls—Some ministers who profess to be called of God have the
blood of souls on their garments. They are surrounded with backsliders
and sinners, and yet feel no burden for their souls; they manifest an
indifference in regard to their salvation. Some are so nearly asleep
that they seem to have no sense of the work of a gospel minister.
They do not consider that as spiritual physicians they are required to
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