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Testimonies for the Church Volume 3
has stood in the way of sinners; he has not been in such a position that
his influence would recommend our faith to unbelievers.
His example has been a hindrance to the church and to his un-
believing neighbors. If Brother K had been wholly consecrated to
God, his works would have been fruitful, productive of much good.
But that which more especially distinguishes God’s people from the
popular religious bodies is not their profession alone, but their exem-
plary characters and their principles of unselfish love. The powerful,
purifying influence of the Spirit of God upon the heart, carried out in
words and works, separates them from the world and designates them
as God’s peculiar people. The character and disposition of Christ’s
followers will be like their Master’s. He is the pattern, the holy and
perfect example given for Christians to imitate. His true followers
will love their brethren and be in harmony with them. They will love
their neighbors as Christ has given them example and will make any
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sacrifice if they can by so doing persuade souls to leave their sins and
be converted to the truth.
The truth, deeply rooted in the hearts of believers, will spring
up and bear fruit unto righteousness. Their words and works are the
channels through which the pure principles of truth and holiness are
conveyed to the world. Especial blessings and privileges are for those
who love the truth and walk according to the light they have received.
If they neglect to do this, their light will become darkness. When the
people of God become self-sufficient, the Lord leaves them to their
own wisdom. Mercy and truth are promised to the humble in heart,
the obedient and faithful.
Brother K has stood in the way of his children. If he had been
consecrated to God, having his heart in the work, and living out the
truth he professed, he would have felt the importance of commanding
his household after him, as did faithful Abraham.
The lack of harmony and love between the two brothers K is a
reproach to the cause of God. Both are at fault. Both have a work
to do in subduing self and cultivating the Christian graces. God is
dishonored by the dissensions, and I do not go too far when I say
hatred, that exist between these two natural brothers. Brother A K
is greatly at fault. He has cherished feelings that have not been in
accordance with the will of God. He knows the peculiarities of his
brother, B K, that he has a fretful, unhappy temperament. Frequently