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Christ’s Object Lessons
life the character of Christ we co-operate with Him in the work of
saving souls. It is only by revealing in our life His character that we
can co-operate with Him. And the wider the sphere of our influence,
the more good we may do. When those who profess to serve God
follow Christ’s example, practicing the principles of the law in their
daily life; when every act bears witness that they love God supremely
and their neighbor as themselves, then will the church have power to
move the world.
But never should it be forgotten that influence is no less a power
for evil. To lose one’s own soul is a terrible thing; but to cause the
loss of other souls is still more terrible. That our influence should be
a savor of death unto death is a fearful thought; yet this is possible.
Many who profess to gather with Christ are scattering from Him. This
is why the church is so weak. Many indulge freely in criticism and
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accusing. By giving expression to suspicion, jealousy, and discontent,
they yield themselves as instruments to Satan. Before they realize
what they are doing, the adversary has through them accomplished his
purpose. The impression of evil has been made, the shadow has been
cast, the arrows of Satan have found their mark. Distrust, unbelief, and
downright infidelity have fastened upon those who otherwise might
have accepted Christ. Meanwhile the workers for Satan look compla-
cently upon those whom they have driven to skepticism, and who are
now hardened against reproof and entreaty. They flatter themselves
that in comparison with these souls they are virtuous and righteous.
They do not realize that these sad wrecks of character are the work of
their own unbridled tongues and rebellious hearts. It is through their
influence that these tempted ones have fallen.
So frivolity, selfish indulgence, and careless indifference on the
part of professed Christians are turning away many souls from the path
of life. Many there are who will fear to meet at the bar of God the
results of their influence.
It is only through the grace of God that we can make a right use of
this endowment. There is nothing in us of ourselves by which we can
influence others for good. If we realize our helplessness and our need
of divine power, we shall not trust to ourselves. We know not what
results a day, an hour, or a moment may determine, and never should
we begin the day without committing our ways to our heavenly Father.
His angels are appointed to watch over us, and if we put ourselves