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Selected Messages Book 1
Argumentative Sermons
The many argumentative sermons preached, seldom soften and
subdue the soul.... It should be the burden of every messenger to set
forth the fullness of Christ. When the free gift of Christ’s righteousness
is not presented, the discourses are dry and spiritless; the sheep and
lambs are not fed. Said Paul, “My speech and my preaching was not
with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the
Spirit and of power” (
1 Corinthians 2:4
). There is marrow and fatness
in the gospel. Jesus is the living center of everything. Put Christ into
every sermon. Let the preciousness, mercy, and glory of Jesus Christ
be dwelt upon; for Christ formed within is the hope of glory.—
Letter
15, 1892
.
Present Truth in Meekness
Be careful messengers. Do not be anxious to hear and accept new
theories, for often they are such as should never be presented before
any congregation. Speak no boastful, self-exalting words. Let the
Word of God come forth from lips that are sanctified by the truth.
Every minister is to preach the truth as it is in Jesus. He should be
assured of that which he affirms, and should handle the Word of God
under the direction of the Holy Spirit of God. Walk and work carefully
[159]
before God, my brethren, that no soul may be led into deception by
your example. It had been better for you never to have been born than
that you should lead one soul astray.
Those who profess to be servants of God need to make diligent
work for the obtaining of that life where sin and sickness and sorrow
cannot enter. They are to be instant in season and out of season.
God is calling for reformers who will speak strong, uplifting words
from our pulpits. It is when men speak their own words in their own
strength, instead of preaching the Word of God in the power of the
Spirit, that they are hurt and offended when their words are not received
with enthusiasm. It is then that they are tempted to speak words that
will arouse a spirit of bitterness and opposition in their hearers. My
brethren, be advised. Such words are not to come from the lips of
Christ’s ambassadors. Sanctified lips will speak words that reform, but
do not exasperate. The truth is to be presented in the meekness and
love of Christ.—
Letter 348, 1907
.