Importance of the Work
7
know not the time of their visitation. Often they can best learn the
truth through the efforts of the canvasser. Those who go forth in the
name of the Lord are His messengers to give to the multitude who are
in darkness and error the glad tidings of salvation through Christ in
obeying the law of God.
I have been instructed that even where the people hear the message
from the living preacher, the canvasser should carry on his work in
cooperation with the minister; for, though the minister may faithfully
present the message, the people are not able to retain it all. The
printed page is therefore essential, not only in awakening them to the
importance of the truth for this time, but in rooting and grounding
them in the truth, and establishing them against deceptive error. Papers
and books are the Lord’s means of keeping the message for this time
continually before the people. In enlightening and confirming souls
in the truth, the publications will do a far greater work than can be
accomplished by the ministry of the word alone. The silent messengers
that are placed in the homes of the people through the efforts of the
canvasser, will strengthen the gospel ministry in every way; for the
[9]
Holy Spirit will impress minds as they read the books, just as He
impresses the minds of those who listen to the preaching of the word.
The same ministry of angels attends the books that contain the truth as
attends the work of the minister.
* * * * *
God might have committed the message of the gospel, and all
the work of loving ministry, to the heavenly angels. He might have
employed other means for accomplishing His purpose. But in His
infinite love He chose to make us co-workers with Himself, with
Christ and the angels, that we might share the blessing, the joy, the
spiritual uplifting, which results from unselfish ministry.
Every one of us can do something, if we will only take the position
that God would have us take. My brethren, every move that you make
to enlighten others, brings you nearer into harmony with the God of
heaven.
[10]