Methods and Plans
[
Medical Missionary Library, No. 5, pp. 14-16 (1906).
]
In all our sanitariums the work done should be of such a character
as to win souls to Jesus Christ. We have a wide missionary field in our
health institutions, for here people of all countries come to regain their
health. The best helpers to have connected with our sanitariums are
those men who desire to make the Bible their guide, those who will
put forth their mental and moral powers to advance the work in correct
ways.
Let the workers in the sanitariums remember that the object of the
establishment of these institutions is not alone the relief of suffering
and the healing of disease, but also the salvation of souls. Let the
spiritual atmosphere of these institutions be such that men and women
who are brought to the sanitariums to receive treatment for their bodily
ills, shall learn the lesson that their diseased souls need healing.
To preach the gospel means much more than many realize. It is a
broad, far-reaching work. Our sanitariums have been presented to me
as most efficient means for the promotion of the gospel message.
The work of the true medical missionary is largely a spiritual work.
It includes prayer and the laying on of hands; he therefore should be as
sacredly set apart for his work as is the minister of the gospel. Those
who are selected to act the part of missionary physicians are to be set
apart as such. This will strengthen them against the temptations to
withdraw from the sanitarium work to engage in private practice. No
selfish motives should be allowed to draw the worker from his post
of duty. The medical work done in connection with the giving of the
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third angel’s message, is to accomplish wonderful results. It is to be a
sanctifying, unifying work, corresponding to the work which the great
Head of the church sent forth the first disciples to do.
Calling these disciples together, Christ gave them their commis-
sion: ... “And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at
hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils:
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