232
The Voice in Speech and Song
with Jesus. The apostles spoke as He had spoken, with a convincing
power that silenced their adversaries.—
The Story of Redemption, 252
.
John the Apostle
Faithful, Earnest Laborer—After the ascension of Christ, John
stands forth as a faithful, earnest laborer for the Master. With the
other disciples he enjoyed the outpouring of the Spirit on the day
of Pentecost, and with fresh zeal and power he continued to speak
to the people the words of life, seeking to lead their thoughts to the
Unseen. He was a powerful preacher, fervent, and deeply in earnest.
In beautiful language and with a musical voice he told of the words
and works of Christ, speaking in a way that impressed the hearts of
those who heard him. The simplicity of his words, the sublime power
of the truths he uttered, and the fervor that characterized his teachings,
gave him access to all classes.—
The Acts of the Apostles, 546
.
[364]
No Controversy—As a witness for Christ, John entered into no
controversy, no wearisome contention. He declared what he knew,
what he had seen and heard.—
The Acts of the Apostles, 555
.
Focus on Gospel Story—When the faith of the Christians would
seem to waver under the fierce opposition they were forced to meet,
the old, tried servant of Jesus would repeat with power and eloquence
the story of the crucified and risen Saviour.—
The Acts of the Apostles,
568
.
Simplicity of Language—When he testified of the Saviour’s
grace, the simplicity of his language was eloquent with the love that
pervaded his whole being. He had not a doubt nor a suspicion. He
entered into no controversy, no wearisome contention.—
Manuscript
8a, 1888
.
Powerful Preacher—The apostle’s life was in harmony with his
teachings. The love which glowed in his heart for Christ, led him to
put forth the most earnest, untiring labor for his fellow men, especially
for his brethren in the Christian church. He was a powerful preacher,
fervent, and deeply in earnest, and his words carried with them a
weight of conviction.—
The Review and Herald, February 15, 1881
.
Candor in the Emperor’s Court—John was accordingly sum-
moned to Rome to be tried for his faith. Here before the authorities
the apostle’s doctrines were misstated. False witnesses accused him of