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Pastoral Ministry
Canvassing must not be made a prerequisite to ministry—
Some who did not receive their counsel from God, prepared a res-
olution, which was carried, that no one should labor as a minister
unless he first made a success in the canvassing field. The Spirit of
the Lord did not indite that resolution. It was born of minds that were
taking a narrow view of God’s vineyard and his workmen. It is not
the work of any man to prescribe the work for any other man contrary
to his own convictions of duty. He is to be advised and counselled,
but he is to seek his directions from God, whose he is, and whom he
serves.—
The Publishing Ministry, 260
.
Canvassing provides opportunities and experience—All who
wish an opportunity for true ministry, and who will give themselves
unreservedly to God, will find in the canvassing work opportunities
to speak upon many things pertaining to the future immortal life. The
experience thus gained will be of the greatest value to those who are
fitting themselves for the work of the ministry. It is the accompaniment
of the Holy Spirit of God that prepares workers, both men and women,
to become pastors to the flock of God.—
The Review and Herald,
January 15, 1901
.
Continuing Education
Education should continue throughout the minister’s life-
time—A minister should never think that he has learned enough, and
may now relax his efforts. His education should continue throughout
his lifetime; every day he should be learning, and putting to use the
knowledge gained.—
Gospel Workers, 94
.
Ministers should continually study and improve even in their
later years—The true minister of Christ should make continual im-
provement. The afternoon sun of his life may be more mellow and
productive of fruit than the morning sun. It may continue to increase in
size and brightness until it drops behind the western hills. My brethren
in the ministry, it is better, far better, to die of hard work in some
home or foreign mission field, than to rust out with inaction. Be not
dismayed at difficulties; be not content to settle down without studying
and without making improvement.—
The Review and Herald, April 6,
1886
.