Discussions not to be Sought
325
truth. The moral sensibilities of the community at large are blunted
by familiarity with sin. Selfishness, dishonesty, and the varied sins
which prevail in this degenerate age, have blunted the senses to eternal
things, so that God’s truth is not discerned. In giving publicity to the
erroneous arguments of our opponents, truth and error are placed upon
a level in the minds of the people, when, if they could have the truth
before them in its clearness long enough to see and realize its sacred-
ness and importance, they would be convinced of the strong arguments
[380]
in its favor, and would then be prepared to meet the arguments urged
by opposers.
Those who are seeking to know the truth and to understand the will
of God, who are faithful to the light, and zealous in the performance
of their daily duties, will surely know of the doctrine; for they will be
guided into all truth.—
Testimonies for the Church 3:424-427
.
* * * * *
Whenever it is necessary for the advancement of the cause of truth
and the glory of God, that an opponent be met, how carefully, and with
what humility should they [the advocates of truth] go into the conflict.
With heart-searching, confession of sin, and earnest prayer, and often
fasting for a time, they should entreat that God would especially help
them, and give His saving, precious truth a glorious victory, that error
might appear in its true deformity, and its advocates be completely
discomfited....
Never should you enter upon a discussion, where so much is at
stake, relying upon your aptness to handle strong arguments. If it
cannot be well avoided, enter the conflict, but enter upon it with firm
trust in God, and in the spirit of humility, in the spirit of Jesus, who has
bidden you learn of Him who is meek and lowly in heart.—
Testimonies
for the Church 1:624-626
.
[381]