Our Publications
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as well as the minister, should have a sufficient remuneration for his
services if his work is faithfully done.
If there is one work more important than another, it is that of
getting our publications before the public, thus leading them to search
the Scriptures. Missionary work—introducing our publications into
families, conversing, and praying with and for them—is a good work
and one which will educate men and women to do pastoral labor.
Everyone is not fitted for this work. Those of the best talent and
ability, who will take hold of the work understandingly and system-
atically, and carry it forward with persevering energy, are the ones
who should be selected. There should be a most thoroughly organized
plan; and this should be faithfully carried out. Churches in every place
should feel the deepest interest in the tract and missionary work.
The volumes of Spirit of Prophecy, and also the Testimonies, should
be introduced into every Sabbathkeeping family, and the brethren
should know their value and be urged to read them. It was not the
wisest plan to place these books at a low figure and have only one set
in a church. They should be in the library of every family and read
again and again. Let them be kept where they can be read by many,
and let them be worn out in being read by all the neighbors.
There should be evening readings, in which one should read aloud
to those assembled at the winter fireside. There is but little interest
manifested to make the most of the light given of God. Much of it
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is concerning family duties, and instruction is given to meet almost
every case and circumstance. Money will be expended for tea, coffee,
ribbons, ruffles, and trimmings, and much time and labor spent in
preparing the apparel, while the inward work of the heart is neglected.
God has caused precious light to be brought out in publications, and
these should be owned and read by every family. Parents, your children
are in danger of going contrary to the light given of heaven, and you
should both purchase and read the books, for they will be a blessing to
you and yours. You should lend Spirit of Prophecy to your neighbors
and prevail upon them to buy copies for themselves. Missionaries for
God, you should be earnest, active, vigorous workers.
Many are going directly contrary to the light which God has given
to His people, because they do not read the books which contain the
light and knowledge in cautions, reproofs, and warnings. The cares
of the world, the love of fashion, and the lack of religion have turned