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Testimonies on Sabbath-School Work
words as well as the ideas. Every teacher, before he stands at the head
of his class, should have his plans distinctly laid out in his mind as
to what he wants to do for that day and on that occasion. Reciting a
lesson yourself before the class is not teaching it; you want simple
words and plainly, clearly-stated ideas. Make sure that your scholars
understand you. If they can not comprehend your ideas, then your
labor is lost. Do not skim the surface; work deep. The Bible is the
rule and guide of the life. Sound doctrine must be brought into actual
contact with the minds and hearts of your scholars; then it will produce
fruit, for sound practise will be seen as the result of your labors.
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Effect of the Truth
The principles of truth impressed upon the heart, line upon line and
precept upon precept, will produce right action. The Bible contains
the searching maxims which God has given to guide men and women,
youth and children, through the conflicts of this life to heaven. The
prayer of Christ was, “Sanctify them through Thy truth, Thy Word is
truth.” However enlightened the youth may be through Bible studies,
their nature is such that unless the truth of which they have knowledge
is practised in the daily life, every attempt to elevate and ennoble will
be unavailing. The parents have a serious responsibility resting upon
them to cooperate with the teachers in the Sabbath-school.
There are hearts that the Lord has touched with His Holy Spirit. No
sooner does grace begin its work in the soul, than the heart is humbled
and subdued; there is no wrestling for the supremacy; pride is gone;
there is such a sense of the love of Christ in giving His life for sinful
beings that there is no desire to become self-exalted. The converted
one sees that his Redeemer lived a life of humility, and he desires to
walk in His footsteps. The missionary spirit is awakened in his heart;
and, while walking humbly and circumspectly, in accordance with his
faith, he can not rest until he is engaged in the work of trying to win
souls to Christ. He wants every one to know the preciousness of a
Saviour’s love. In his work of faith and devoted labor, he will meet
with strong temptations and trials, for the Lord tests all His children.
If he has the root of the matter in him, he will become more and more
firmly established in the truth. If Christ is abiding in his heart by
faith, sin appears revolting. While he will have love, kindness, and
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