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Evangelism
able. But games, theaters, horse races, will not satisfy the soul. Human
beings were not created to be satisfied in this way, to spend their money
for that which is not bread. Show them how infinitely superior to the
fleeting joys and pleasures of the world is the imperishable glory of
heaven. Seek to convince them of the freedom and hope and rest and
[268]
peace there is in the gospel. “Whosoever drinketh of the water that
I shall give him shall never thirst,” Christ declared.—
Manuscript 12,
1901
.
Instructions on Dress and Pleasure—The principles of the
Christian life should be made plain to those who have newly come to
the truth. Faithful, Christian men and women should have an intense
interest to bring the convicted soul to a correct knowledge of righ-
teousness in Christ Jesus. If any have allowed the desire for pleasure
or the love of dress to become supreme, so that any portion of their
mind, soul, and strength is devoted to selfish indulgences, the faithful
believers should watch for these souls as they that must give an ac-
count. They must not neglect the faithful, tender, loving instruction
so essential to the young converts, that there may be no half-hearted
work.—
Manuscript 56, 1900
.
Instructing New Converts on Idolatry of Dress— One of the
points upon which those newly come to the faith will need instruction
is the subject of dress. Let the new converts be faithfully dealt with.
Are they vain in dress? Do they cherish pride of heart? The idolatry of
dress is a moral disease. It must not be taken over into the new life.
In most cases, submission to the gospel requirements will demand a
decided change in the dress.
There should be no carelessness in dress. For Christ’s sake, whose
witnesses we are, we should seek to make the best of our appearance.
In the tabernacle service, God specified every detail concerning the
garments of those who ministered before Him. Thus we are taught
that He has a preference in regard to the dress of those who serve
Him. Very specific were the directions given in regard to Aaron’s
robes, for his dress was symbolic. So the dress of Christ’s followers
[269]
should be symbolic. In all things we are to be representatives of Him.
Our appearance in every respect should be characterized by neatness,
modesty, and purity. But the Word of God gives no sanction to the
making of changes in apparel merely for the sake of fashion,—that we