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Pastoral Ministry
Win Them
In the parables of the lost sheep and lost piece of silver, Je-
sus illustrated heaven’s attitude toward the backslidden—They
should be carefully and tenderly led and educated as pupils in school.
Many have to unlearn theories which have been ingrafted into their
lives. As they become convinced that they have been in error con-
cerning Bible subjects, they are thrown into perplexity and doubt.
They need the tenderest sympathy and the most judicious help; they
should be carefully instructed; and should be prayed for and prayed
with, watched and guarded with the kindest solicitude. Those who
have fallen under temptation and have backslidden from God, need
help. This class is represented in the lessons of Christ by the lost
sheep. The shepherd left the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and
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hunted for the one lost sheep until he found it; he then returned with
rejoicing, bearing it on his shoulder. Also by the illustration of the
woman who searched for the lost piece of silver until she found it,
and called together her neighbors to rejoice with her that the lost was
found. The connection of heavenly angels with the Christian’s work
is here brought clearly to light. There is more joy in the presence of
the angels in heaven over one sinner that repents than over ninety and
nine just persons who need no repentance. There is joy with the Father
and with Christ. All heaven is interested in the salvation of man. He
who is instrumental in saving a soul is at liberty to rejoice; for angels
of God have witnessed his efforts with the most intense interest, and
rejoice with him in his success.—
Testimonies for the Church 4:263,
264
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Let the love of Christ constrain you to feel compassion to-
ward the backslidden—Let not the ministers of the cross of our dear
Saviour forget their experience in these things, but ever bear in mind
they are but men liable to err, of like passions with their brethren; and
if they help their brethren, they must be persevering in their efforts to
do them good, having their hearts filled with pity and love. They must
come to the hearts of their brethren, and help them where they are
weak and need help the most. Those who labor in word and doctrine
should break their own hard, proud, unbelieving hearts, if they would
witness the same in their brethren. Christ has done all for us because
we were helpless, bound in chains of darkness, sin, and despair, and