Controversy—Positive and Negative
103
and from many once unwilling lips will be heard the acknowledgment
of Thomas, “My Lord and my God.”—
The Desire of Ages, 808
(1898).
To Sick Speak No Word of Controversy—At the bedside of
the sick no word of creed or controversy should be spoken. Let the
sufferer be pointed to the One who is willing to save all that come to
Him in faith. Earnestly, tenderly strive to help the soul that is hovering
between life and death.—
The Ministry of Healing, 120
(1905).
Controversy Is Unprofitable—We are not called upon to enter
into controversy with those who hold false theories. Controversy is
unprofitable. Christ never entered into it. “It is written” is the weapon
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used by the world’s Redeemer. Let us keep close to the Word. Let us
allow the Lord Jesus and His messengers to testify. We know that their
testimony is true.—
Life Sketches of Ellen G. White, 93
(1915).
Controversy Seldom Softens—The many argumentative sermons
preached seldom soften and subdue the soul.—Lt 15, 1892. (
Evange-
lism, 172
.)
Positive Approach More Powerful—Do not cherish a spirit of
controversy. Little good is accomplished by denunciatory speeches.
The surest way to destroy false doctrine is to preach the truth. Keep
to the affirmative. Let the precious truths of the gospel kill the force
of evil. Show a tender, pitiful spirit toward the erring. Come close to
hearts.—Lt 190, 1902. (
Evangelism, 304
.)
Controversy That Awakens Minds—In every age God’s chosen
messengers have been reviled and persecuted, yet through their afflic-
tion the knowledge of God has been spread abroad. Every disciple
of Christ is to step into the ranks and carry forward the same work,
knowing that its foes can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.
God means that truth shall be brought to the front and become the sub-
ject of examination and discussion, even through the contempt placed
upon it. The minds of the people must be agitated; every controversy,
every reproach, every effort to restrict liberty of conscience, is God’s
means of awakening minds that otherwise might slumber.—
Thoughts
from the Mount of Blessing, 33
(1896).
Children Influenced by Parental Disagreements—To a large
extent parents create the atmosphere of the home circle, and when
there is disagreement between father and mother, the children par-
take of the same spirit. Make your home atmosphere fragrant with
tender thoughtfulness. If you have become estranged and have failed