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Testimonies for the Church Volume 9
the school of Christ. He who is careless and heedless in uttering
words or in writing words for publication to be sent broadcast into
the world, sending forth expressions that can never be taken back,
is disqualifying himself to be entrusted with the sacred work that
devolves upon Christ’s followers at this time. Those who prac-
tice giving harsh thrusts are forming habits that will strengthen by
repetition and will have to be repented of.
We should carefully examine our ways and our spirit, and see in
what manner we are doing the work given us of God, which involves
the destiny of souls. The very highest obligation is resting upon
us. Satan is standing ready, burning with zeal to inspire the whole
confederacy of satanic agencies, that he may cause them to unite
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with evil men and bring upon the believers of truth speedy and severe
suffering. Every unwise word that is uttered through our brethren
will be treasured up by the prince of darkness.
I should like to ask: How dare finite human intelligences speak
careless and venturesome words that will stir up the powers of hell
against the saints of God, when Michael the Archangel durst not
bring against Satan a railing accusation, but said: “The Lord rebuke
thee”?
Jude 1:9
.
It will be impossible for us to avoid difficulties and suffering.
Jesus said: “Woe unto the world because of offenses! for it must
needs be that offenses come; but woe to that man by whom the
offense cometh!”
Matthew 18:7
. But because offense will come,
we should be careful not to stir up the natural temperament of those
who love not the truth, by unwise words and by the manifestation of
an unkind spirit.
Precious truth must be presented in its native force. The de-
ceptive errors that are widespread, and that are leading the world
captive, are to be unveiled. Every effort possible is being made to
ensnare souls with subtle reasonings, to turn them from the truth to
fables, and to prepare them to be deceived by strong delusions. But
while these deceived souls turn from the truth to error, do not speak
to them one word of censure. Seek to show these poor, deluded souls
their danger and to reveal to them how grievous is their course of
action toward Jesus Christ; but let it all be done in pitying tenderness.
By a proper manner of labor some of the souls who are ensnared
by Satan may be recovered from his power. But do not blame and