Chapter 56—Eternal Truth
Need of New Sermons—A familiarity with the truths of the Scrip-
ture will give the teacher of truth qualifications that will make him
a representative of Christ. The spirit of the Saviour’s teaching will
give force and directness to his instruction and to his prayers. His
will not be a narrow, lifeless testimony; he will not preach over and
over the same set discourses; for his mind will be open to the constant
illumination of the Holy Spirit.—
Gospel Workers, 252
.
Converted Speakers—When men are really converted, contro-
versy and debate will be ended. The plain, searching truth will be
proclaimed by lips touched with a live coal from the altar of God.—
The Review and Herald, February 21, 1899
.
Plain Presentation of Truth—Everywhere there are hearts crying
out for the living God. Discourses unsatisfying to the hungry soul
have been given in the churches. In these discourses there is not that
divine manifestation which touches the mind and creates a glow in
the soul. The hearers cannot say: “Did not our heart burn within us,
while He talked with us by the way, and while He opened to us the
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Scriptures?”
Luke 24:32
. Much of the teaching given is powerless
to awaken the transgressor or convict souls of sin. The people who
come to hear the Word need a plain, straightforward presentation of
truth.—
Testimonies for the Church 6:53
.
Appeal to Men of High Position—Men in high positions of trust
in the world will be charmed by a plain, straightforward, Scriptural
statement of truth.—
Evangelism, 557
.
Voice Like a Trumpet—The true minister of the gospel will not
stand before the people to speak smooth words, to cry, Peace and
safety. He realizes the dangers that threaten the soul, and he presents
the truth as it is in Jesus. The truth comes from his lips clear, plain,
decided, as if he fully believed that the words spoken will be a savor
of life unto life or of death unto death. The words of the minister
who knows that he has the Spirit and power of God, will awaken the
conscience of his hearers.—
The Review and Herald, March 29, 1906
.
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