Chapter 40—The Influence of Neighborhood Ministry
Let the World See—Let the world see that we are not selfishly
narrowed up to our own exclusive interests and religious joys, but that
we are liberal, and desire them to share our blessings and privileges,
through the sanctification of the truth. Let them see that the religion
which we profess does not close up or freeze over the avenues to the
soul, making us unsympathizing and exacting. Let all who profess to
have found Christ, minister as He did to the benefit of man, cherishing
a spirit of wise benevolence. We shall then see many souls following
the light that shines from our precept and example.—
Testimonies for
the Church 4:59
.
Christian Help Work Is More Effectual Than Preaching—The
good works of the children of God are the most effectual preaching
the unbeliever has.—
Spiritual Gifts 2:235
.
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Let them do Christian help work, feeding the hungry and clothing
the naked. This will have a far stronger influence for good than the
preaching of sermons.—
Testimonies for the Church 7:227, 228
.
Our ideas of Christian benevolence must be worked out if we would
have them enlarged. Practical work will accomplish far more than
sermons.—
Testimonies for the Church 6:302
.
Influence of the Life of Christian Service—The Christian’s life
will testify that he is governed by other laws than those which the world
obeys—laws of a higher order than those that control the lovers of the
world. The will of God, our Creator, is to be made manifest in us, not
only in the name we bear, but in our life of self-denial. We are to give
evidence that we are influenced and controlled by unselfish principles.
All our purposes and pursuits should stand in distinct contrast to the
selfishness of the world.
Oneness with Christ enables men to wield an influence far above
that of the renowned of this world. While copying the example of
Christ, they have, with His grace, power to benefit the church and the
community. Their influence is felt just in proportion to the distinctness
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