Soul-Winning Work
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desire in all things to be approved by God; and his work will not be
fruitless.
We need far less controversy, and far more presentation of Christ.
Our Redeemer is the center of all our faith and hope. Those who
can present His matchless love, and inspire hearts to give Him their
best and holiest affections, are doing work that is great and holy. By
diligence in canvassing, by faithfully presenting to the people the cross
of Calvary, the canvasser doubles his usefulness. But while we present
these methods of work, we cannot lay out an undeviating line for
everyone to follow. Circumstances alter cases....
Speak of Christ’s Love—Often doctrinal subjects are presented
with no special effect; for men expect others to press upon them their
doctrines; but when the matchless love of Christ is dwelt upon, His
grace impresses the heart. There are many who are sincerely seeking
for light, who know not what they must do to be saved. Oh, tell them
of the love of God, of the sacrifice made on Calvary’s cross to save the
perishing! Tell them to place their will on the side of God’s will; and
“if any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it
be of God.”
John 7:17
.—
Manual for Canvassers, 36-38
(1902).
Avoid Controverted Points—Some who labor in the canvassing
field have a zeal that is not according to knowledge. Because of
their lack of wisdom, because they have been so much inclined to act
the minister and theologian, it has been almost a necessity to place
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restrictions upon our canvassers. When the Lord’s voice calls, “Whom
shall I send, and who will go for Us?” the Divine Spirit puts it into
hearts to respond: “Here am I; send me.”
Isaiah 6:8
. But bear in
mind that the live coal from the altar must first touch your lips. Then
the words you speak will be wise and holy words. Then you will
have wisdom to know what to say and what to leave unsaid. You will
not try to reveal your smartness as theologians. You will be careful
not to arouse a combative spirit or excite prejudice by introducing
controverted points of doctrine. You will find enough to talk about
that will not excite opposition, but that will open the heart to desire a
deeper knowledge of God’s word.
Ready to Give Answer—The Lord desires you to be soul winners;
therefore, while you should not force doctrinal points upon the people,
you should “be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh
you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.”
1 Peter