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Counsels for the Church
and love, though He invites them to buy of Him “gold tried in the fire,”
and white raiment” that they may be clothed, and “eyesalve” that they
may see, they steel their hearts against Him, and fail to exchange their
lukewarmness for love and zeal. While making a profession, they deny
the power of godliness. If they continue in this state, God will reject
them. They are unfitting themselves to be members of His family
Let church members bear in mind that the fact that their names are
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registered on the church books will not save them. They must show
themselves approved of God, workmen that need not be ashamed. Day
by day they are to build their characters in accordance with Christ’s
directions. They are to abide in Him, constantly exercising faith in
Him. Thus they will grow up to the full stature of men and women
in Christ—wholesome, cheerful, grateful Christians, led by God into
clearer and still clearer light. If this is not their experience, they will
be among those whose voices will one day be raised in the bitter
lamentation: “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and my soul
is not saved! Why did I not flee to the Stronghold for refuge? Why
have I trifled with my soul’s salvation, and done despite to the Spirit
of grace?
Brethren and sisters who have long claimed to believe the truth, I
ask you individually, Have your practices been in harmony with the
light, the privileges, and the opportunities granted you of heaven? This
is a serious question. The Sun of Righteousness has risen upon the
church, and it is the duty of the church to shine. It is the privilege
of every soul to make advancement. Those who are connected with
Christ will grow in grace and in the knowledge of the Son of God, to
the full stature of men and women. If all who claim to believe the truth
had made the most of their ability and opportunities to learn and to do,
they would have become strong in Christ. Whatever their occupation—
whether they were farmers, mechanics, teachers, or pastors—if they
had wholly consecrated themselves to God they would have become
efficient workers for the heavenly Master
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Testimonies for the Church 6:426
62
Testimonies for the Church 9:48
63
Testimonies for the Church 6:423