Spirit of Investigation Essential
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The world is full of all manner of error of a misleading nature, and
it is essential that both pupils and teachers know that they know what is
truth. There is need that we reverence the Word of God and recognize
His voice in the living oracles, that we may practise its precepts and
live by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Those that
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do the will of God shall know of the doctrine whether it be of God, for
no deception will cloud their minds. God calls every one, both old and
young, to make a diligent search in His Word, that they may discover
the rich jewels of truth. Ministers and people, teachers and scholars,
are all called to the work of studying the Bible.
Precious light is to shine forth from the Word of God, and let no
one presume to dictate what shall or what shall not be brought before
the people in the messages of enlightenment that He shall send, and so
quench the Spirit of God. Whatever may be his position of authority,
no one has a right to shut away the light from the people. When a
message comes in the name of the Lord to His people, no one may
excuse himself from an investigation of its claims. No one can afford
to stand back in an attitude of indifference and self-confidence, and
say: “I know what is truth. I am satisfied with my position. I have set
my stakes, and I will not be moved away from my position, whatever
may come. I will not listen to the message of this messenger; for I
know that it can not be truth.” It was from pursuing this very course
that the popular churches were left in partial darkness, and that is why
the messages of heaven have not reached them.
Cultivate a Teachable Spirit
God calls upon those who hold responsible positions in Sabbath-
school work to put away all egotism, all self-confidence, and pride of
opinion; if a message comes that you do not understand, take pains that
you may hear the reasons the messenger may give, comparing scripture
with scripture, that you may know whether or not it is sustained by the
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Word of God. If you believe that the position taken have not the Word
of God for their foundation, if the position you hold on the subject
can not be controverted, then produce your strong reasons; for your
position will not be shaken by coming in contact with error. There is
no virtue or manliness in keeping up a continual warfare in the dark,
closing your eyes lest you may see, closing your ears lest you may