210
Testimonies for the Church Volume 5
grew languid, her fervent devotion gave place to dead formality. Every
advance step toward the world was a step away from God. As pride
and worldly ambition have been cherished, the spirit of Christ has
departed, and emulation, dissension, and strife have come in to distract
[241]
and weaken the church.
Paul writes to his Corinthian brethren: “Ye are yet carnal: for
whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are yet
not carnal, and walk as men?” It is impossible for minds distracted by
envy and strife to comprehend the deep spiritual truths of God’s word.
“The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for
they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they
are spiritually discerned.” We cannot rightly understand or appreciate
divine revelation without the aid of that Spirit by whom the word was
given.
Those who are appointed to guard the spiritual interests of the
church should be careful to set a right example, giving no occasion for
envy, jealousy, or suspicion, ever manifesting that same spirit of love,
respect, and courtesy which they desire to encourage in their brethren.
Diligent heed should be given to the instructions of God’s word. Let
every manifestation of animosity or unkindness be checked; let every
root of bitterness be removed. When trouble arises between brethren,
the Saviour’s rule should be strictly followed. All possible effort
should be made to effect a reconciliation; but if the parties stubbornly
persist in remaining at variance, they should be suspended till they can
harmonize.
Upon the occurrence of trials in the church let every member
examine his own heart to see if the cause of trouble does not exist
within. By spiritual pride, a desire to dictate, an ambitious longing for
honor or position, a lack of self-control, by the indulgence of passion
or prejudice, by instability or lack of judgment, the church may be
disturbed and her peace sacrificed.
Difficulties are often caused by the vendors of gossip, whose whis-
pered hints and suggestions poison unsuspecting minds and separate
the closest friends. Mischief-makers are seconded in their evil work
by the many who stand with open ears and evil heart, saying: “Report,
[242]
... and we will report it.” This sin should not be tolerated among the
followers of Christ. No Christian parent should permit gossip to be