Way of Salvation
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discourse fervent appeals should be made to the people to forsake their
sins and turn to Christ.—
Gospel Workers, 159
.
Refuge in Christ—The minister who has learned of Christ will
ever be conscious that he is a messenger of God, commissioned by
Him to do a work both for time and eternity. It should not be any part
of his object to call attention to himself, his learning, or his ability. But
his whole aim should be to bring sinners to repentance, pointing them,
both by precept and example, to the Lamb of God that taketh away the
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sins of the world. Self should be hidden in Jesus. Such men will speak
as those conscious of possessing power and authority from God, being
a mouthpiece for Him. Their discourses will have an earnestness and
fervor of persuasion that will lead sinners to see their lost condition,
and take refuge in Christ.—
Evangelism, 134
.
Steps in Conversion—Ministers should present the truth in a clear,
simple manner. There are among their hearers many who need a plain
explanation of the steps requisite in conversion. The great masses of
the people are more ignorant on this point than is supposed. Among
graduates from college, eloquent orators, able statesmen, men in high
positions of trust, there are many who have given their powers to other
matters, and have neglected the things of greatest importance. When
such men form part of a congregation, the speaker often strains every
power to preach an intellectual discourse, and fails to reveal Christ.
He does not show that sin is the transgression of the law. He does not
make plain the plan of salvation. That which would have touched the
hearts of his hearers, would have been to point them to Christ dying to
bring redemption within their reach.—
Gospel Workers, 170
.
Remission of Sins Through Christ—Direct applications must
be made. And ever the speaker must remember that he is only the
instrument. It is the Holy Spirit that impresses the hearts of high and
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low, the most dignified and the most hopelessly abandoned. The Word
must be spoken in simplicity. Men must be addressed as sinners in
peril of losing their souls. All distinctions must be overlooked; for all
need the same truth. All need a crucified and risen Saviour, who died
that they might be saved.
Present the Word of God as the way in which a holy faith and a
pure character may be attained. Offer a full and free salvation, not
as coming from yourselves, but from Christ. Show your hearers their
need of returning through repentance and faith to their loyalty; for all