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The Publishing Ministry
are good for nothing else and have made a success of nothing, but
from among those who have good address, tact, keen foresight, and
ability. Such are needed to make a success as colporteurs, canvassers,
and agents. Men suited to this work undertake it, but some injudicious
minister will flatter them that their gift should be employed in the desk
instead of simply in the work of the colporteur. Thus this work is
belittled. They are influenced to get a license to preach; and the very
ones who might have been trained to make good missionaries to visit
families at their homes and talk and pray with them are caught up to
make poor ministers; and the field where so much labor is needed,
and where so much good might be accomplished for the cause, is
neglected. The efficient colporteur, as well as the minister, should have
a sufficient remuneration for his services if his work is faithfully done.
If there is one work more important than another, it is that of
getting our publications before the public, thus leading them to search
the Scriptures. Missionary work—introducing our publications into
families, conversing, and praying with and for them—is a good work
and one which will educate men and women to do pastoral labor.
Not everyone is fitted for this work. Those of the best talent and
ability, who will take hold of the work understandingly and system-
atically, and carry it forward with persevering energy, are the ones
who should be selected. There should be a most thoroughly orga-
[273]
nized plan; and this should be faithfully carried out. Churches in
every place should feel the deepest interest in the tract and missionary
work.—
Testimonies for the Church 4:389, 390
.
Farmers, Mechanics, to Be God’s Agents—The Sun of Righ-
teousness has risen upon the church, and it is the duty of the church to
shine. Those who are connected with Christ will grow in grace, and in
the knowledge of Jesus Christ, to the full stature of men and women.
It is the privilege of every soul to make advancement. No one is to
be an idler in the vineyard. If all who claim to believe the truth had
made the most of their opportunities and ability to learn all that they
were privileged to learn, they would have become strong in Christ. No
matter what may have been their occupation, if farmers, mechanics,
teachers, or pastors, if they had wholly consecrated themselves to
God, they would have been efficient agents to work for the heavenly
Master.—
Manuscript 151, 1897
.