Oratorical and Theatrical Display
181
shown that as it was in _______, so it is in other places, that no solid
foundation is made for the organization of a church. When such a
minister leaves those who have apparently embraced the truth, it is
made manifest that the people are not bound up with Christ, but have
been bound to the man. Christ was as a stranger to them, and they
knew Him not. The people left His company, and walked no more
with Him.
The messengers of God are to deliver the last, solemn, testing
message of mercy to a fallen world. If the minister exhibits himself,
[285]
he interposes himself between the message and the people. If he
educates himself to present the truth in a certain manner, he can make
his work of no effect, and leave it so that it will ravel out. This is
because the Holy Spirit does not work with his efforts. The people
are encouraged to look to him and to exalt him, and Jesus is not the
one who is seen, but [rather] the man [who] steps into the place of
the crucified and risen Saviour. The minister may preach a discourse
which will go clear above the people into the clouds and stars, but
leave no lasting impression upon the hearts of his hearers. Unless
conviction is fastened on a heart, then time and means are expended
to no effect. Of what value is it that the people think much of the
minister, when they do not have a regard for saving, testing truth?
The Holy Spirit must work the man; the man must not endeavor to
work the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is not a servant, but a controlling
power. The Holy Spirit causes the truth to shine in every mind, and
speaks through every discourse where the minister surrenders himself
to its working. The Holy Spirit walks with the soul by the way, and
talks with the human agent. It is He who gives the atmosphere that
surrounds the soul, and speaks to the impenitent through words of
warning.—Lt 29, 1895.
Men of Prayer, Men of Power—It is not eloquent speakers that
are needed, but humble, earnest workers, men who have childlike trust
in a higher strength. It is the men of prayer, who seek the Lord with
[286]
humble, contrite hearts, that are men of power.—Lt 146, 1903.
Oratory a Possible Snare—It is the truth enshrined in the soul
that makes one a man of God. Oratory, though it may please a certain
class, will prove a snare to the one who uses it, and a snare to the
church....