Preface
xi
the reader than would be necessary if the writings were straightforward
essays. However, this style makes interesting reading, and makes clear
the fact that Ellen White’s work for the church was a hands-on work
.
Readers should look for the central principles contained in her
counsel, and then apply those principles in a practical way in their
own time and culture. She herself wrote, “regarding the testimonies,
nothing is ignored; nothing is cast aside; but time and place must be
[14]
considered” (1 SM 57). Thus, her counsels regarding camp meetings
apply most directly to evangelistic meetings today, for in her day at
least half of those who attended the typical Adventist camp meeting
were not Seventh-day Adventists
.
Compilations of Mrs. White’s writings are helpful, for they offer a
convenient way to see quickly what she has said on a variety of sub-
jects. The goal in producing compilations is to represent her thought
accurately and without bias. Thus, in most cases, before any selection
of material is made, the full range of her writings on a given topic is
brought together. This method has been followed in preparing this
book. Where Ellen White has said much, much has been included.
Where she has said little, little has been included
.
The White Estate acknowledges with appreciation the work of the
staff of the General Conference Ministerial Association in producing
this valuable compilation. It is the earnest prayer both of the Ministerial
Association and of the White Estate that as you read this book you may
receive a rich blessing. May your Christian experience deepen and
your ministry be strengthened as you study from the early chapters,
which deal with the pastor’s personal relationship with Christ, to the
final chapter, which summarizes lessons from the ministry of Jesus,
the model Pastor
.
Board of Trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate, Inc
.