Counsel to a Missionary in Africa
73
offered to the world for inspection. “By their fruits,” Christ said, “ye
shall know them.”
Differences of opinion will always exist, for every mind is not
constituted to run in the same channel. Hereditary and cultivated
tendencies have to be guarded, lest they create controversies over minor
matters. Christ’s workers must draw together in tender sympathy and
love. Let not any one think it a virtue to maintain his own notions and
suppose he is the only one to whom the Lord has given discernment
and intuition. Christian charity covers a multitude of that which one
may regard as a defect in another. There is need of much love and
far less criticism. When the Holy Spirit is manifestly working in the
hearts of ministers and helpers, they will reveal the tenderness and
love of Christ.
Many things which have reference to outward forms are not all
defined in the Scriptures, but are left unsettled; and personal prefer-
ences have often been urged too strongly over these matters. When
every item is not in accordance with the practice of some other of
the body of believers, let not little variances swell into grievances
and cause disunion. The methods and measures by which we reach
certain ends are not always precisely the same. We are required to use
reason and judgment as to how we shall move. Experience will show
what is the fittest course to pursue under existing circumstances. Let
not controversy arise over trifles. The spirit of love and the grace of
our Lord Jesus Christ will bind heart to heart, if each will open the
windows of the heart heavenward and close them earthward.
The sins marked out in the Word of God must not be allowed to
enter the life, as of little consequence. If we would faithfully walk
in the light of God’s word and will, we must be determined that we
will not dishonour God by a lax, loose course of action. It is often
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the case that the customs and climate of a country make a condition
of things that would not be tolerated in another country. Changes for
the better must be made, but it is not best to be abrupt. The truth
received into the heart sanctifies the receiver. The power of the grace
of God will do more for the soul than controversy will do in a lifetime.
By the power of the truth how many things might be adjusted, and
controversies hoary with age find quietude in the admission of better
ways. The great, grand principle, “Peace on earth and good will to
men,” will be far better practised when those who believe in Christ are