Attitude to Civil Authorities
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authorities and governments wholly in His own keeping. In meekness
and love, let us as faithful sentinels defend the principles of truth as it
is in Jesus....
Present Truth with Gentleness—The truth should be presented
with divine tact, gentleness, and tenderness. It should come from a
heart that has been softened and made sympathetic. We need to have
close communion with God, lest self rise up, as it did in Jehu, and we
pour forth a torrent of words that are unbefitting, that are not as dew,
or as the still showers that revive the withering plants. Let our words
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be gentle as we seek to win souls. God will be wisdom to him who
seeks for wisdom from a divine source....
Attitude Toward Opponents—God’s plan is first to get at the
heart. Speak the truth, and let Him carry forward the reformatory
power and principle. Make no reference to what opponents say; but
let the truth alone be advanced. The truth can cut to the quick. Plainly
unfold the word in all its impressiveness.—
Testimonies for the Church
6:394-400
(1900).
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