Chapter 68—Social Relationships
A Branch of Education Not to Be Neglected—Christian socia-
bility is altogether too little cultivated by God’s people. This branch
of education should not be neglected or lost sight of in our schools.—
Testimonies for the Church 6:172
(1900).
Social Advantages Are Talents—Those who possess large af-
fections are under obligation to God to bestow them, not merely on
their friends, but on all who need their help. Social advantages are
talents and are to be used for the benefit of all within reach of our
influence.—
Christ’s Object Lessons, 353
(1900).
Not Independent Atoms—Students should be taught that they are
not independent atoms but that each one is a thread which is to unite
with other threads in composing a fabric. In no department can this
instruction be more effectually given than in the school home. Here
students are daily surrounded by opportunities which, if improved,
will greatly aid in developing the social traits of their characters. It
lies in their own power so to improve their time and opportunities as
to develop a character that will make them happy and useful.
Those who shut themselves up within themselves, f who are un-
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willing to be drawn upon to bless others by friendly associations, lose
many blessings; for by mutual contact, minds receive polish and refine-
ment; by social intercourse, acquaintances are formed and friendships
contracted which result in a unity of heart and an atmosphere of love
which is pleasing in the sight of heaven.—
Testimonies for the Church
6:172
(1900).
Importance of Social Relationships—It is through the social re-
lations that Christianity comes in contact with the world. Every man
or woman who has tasted of the love of Christ and has received into
the heart the divine illumination is required of God to shed light on
the dark pathway of those who are unacquainted with the better way
Social power, sanctified by the Spirit of Christ, must be improved to
win souls to the Saviour.—
Testimonies for the Church 4:555
(1881).
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