榆园图书馆
笔记活页
第二卷
NOTEBOOK LEAFLETS FROM THE ELMSHAVEN LIBRARY VOL. 2(1985)
NOTEBOOK LEAFLETS FROM THE ELMSHAVEN
第一章 “务要传道”
怀爱伦曾就传道工作发表了大量有价值的教训。但以下文字是为了布道领袖的益处，就讲道的题材从文稿和信函中汇编而成的。—怀爱伦著作托管委员会 {2NL 153.1}
让基督显现
一切传道工作的目的就是把自我隐藏起来，让基督显现出来。高举基督，乃是一切劳苦传道教导人的人所应显明的伟大真理。(《文稿》1897年109号){2NL 153.2}
基督的公义和慈爱
真理事业的工人应当传讲基督的义，并非作为新的亮光，只是作为久已被人们忽略的宝贵亮光。我们要接受基督作为我们个人的救主，祂将上帝的义在基督里归于我们。我们要重述和强调约翰所描绘的真理：“不是我们爱上帝，乃是上帝爱我们，差祂的儿子为我们的罪作了挽回祭，这就是爱了”(约壹4:10)。{2NL 153.3}
宝贵真理最奇妙的矿脉在上帝的爱里敞开，基督恩典的宝藏显示在教会和世人面前。“上帝爱世人，甚至将祂的独生子赐给他们，叫一切信祂的，不至灭亡，反得永生”(约3:16)。这是何等奇妙的爱，何等奥妙莫测的爱。这爱竟使基督在我们还作罪人的时候，就为我们死了。人如果只知道律法严格的要求，而不明白基督的恩典成就得更多，将会遭受何等大的损失啊!{2NL 153.4}
如果把上帝的律法作为耶稣里的真理来传讲，它的确能显示上帝的爱，因为基督赐给这个犯罪世界的恩赐，应当在每一篇讲道中充分论述。但如果以冷漠而没有生气的方法传讲真理，就难怪人心不受真理感化了。当传道人和工人没有讲明耶稣与上帝律法的关系时，就莫怪人们对上帝的应许将信将疑了。他们应当时时向众人保证：“上帝既不爱惜自己的儿子为我们众人舍了，岂不也把万物和祂一同白白地赐给我们吗”(罗8:32)?{2NL 153.5}
撒但决心使人看不到上帝的爱导致祂舍了祂的独生子拯救堕落的人类，因为引领人悔改的是上帝的恩慈。我们怎样才能有效地将上帝宝贵而深厚的爱在世人面前表达出来呢?我们无法尽述这爱，只得说：“你看父赐给我们是何等的慈爱，使我们得称为上帝的儿女”(约壹3:1)!我们应当对罪人说：“看哪，上帝的羔羊，除去世人罪孽的”(约1:29)!我们既传扬耶稣为天父的代表，就能驱散撒但投在我们道路上的阴影。他这样做的目的，是要使我们看不见上帝彰显在耶稣基督身上的怜悯和无法形容的爱。当仰望髑髅地的十字架，它是天父无限慈爱与无量怜悯的可靠保证。(《文稿》1897年154号){2NL 153.6}
圣灵
大教师基督可以选用的题目是无限丰富的。可是祂讲论得最多的，乃是圣灵的恩赐。祂曾预言教会将会因这个恩赐而成就何等的大事。然而我们现在较少谈论的又是什么题目呢?主的什么应许现在较少实现呢?我们只是偶尔讲到圣灵，然后就不考虑这个题目了。(《文稿》1891年第20号){2NL 154.1}
传扬基督复临的效果
人子复临是应当摆在众人眼前的奇妙主题。我们的讲道不可遗漏这个题目。要将永恒的现实保持在心眼之前，世俗的一切诱惑就要显为虚空无益。世俗的虚荣、赞美、财富、尊荣和欢乐，与我们有什么关系呢?{2NL 154.2}
我们是客旅，是寄居的，在等候、盼望、与祈求那洪福之望，就是我们的主救主耶稣基督的荣耀显现。如果我们相信这一点，并将之带入我们实际的生活，这种信心与盼望将激发我们何等活泼的行动，使我们何等热诚地彼此相爱，何等小心而圣洁地为荣耀上帝而生活，并在我们留心那丰厚的报偿中，显出我们与世人之间有何等分明的界线。(《文稿》1893年第39号){2NL 154.3}
教导悔改的步骤
传道人需要用更加简明的方式宣讲耶稣里的真理。他们自己的思想需要更充分地领会伟大的救赎计划，然后才能引导听众的心远离属世之事，转到属灵和永恒的事物上去。如今有许多人想要明白自己当怎样行才可得救。他们想要一个明确的解释，向他们说明悔改的必要步骤。所讲的每一篇道，都必须特地向罪人指出，他们可以到基督那里得蒙拯救。他们应当像约翰一样向罪人指明基督，因基督的爱而心中火热，以动人的单纯说：“看哪，上帝的羔羊!除去世人罪孽的”(约1:29)。他们应当发出强烈而恳切的请求，呼吁罪人悔改归正。{2NL 154.4}
那些忽略了这部分工作的人在斗胆讲道之前，自己先需要悔改归正。那些心中充满耶稣之爱和祂圣言宝贵真理的人，能够从上帝的府库中拿出新旧的东西来。他们没有时间去讲奇闻轶事;他们不会尽力变成演讲家，高谈阔论，让听众摸不着头脑，反而会用简单的语言，以动人的真诚，将那在耶稣里的真理讲在人前。(《评论与通讯》1887年2月22日) {2NL 154.5}
天使的工作
善天使与恶天使在争夺每一个人。人自己决定哪方会得胜。我呼吁基督的传道人要尽力让一切能听见他们声音的人，深刻了解有关天使工作的真理。不要沉湎于奇幻的猜测。圣经的话语是我们唯一的保障。我们必须像但以理那样祷告，以便得到天使的保护。(《信函》1899年第201号) {2NL 155.1}
古老复临真理的复兴
传道人和信徒需要去完成一项具有神圣意义的工作。他们要研究上帝的圣工和祂百姓的历史。他们不应忘记上帝过去是如何对待祂子民的。他们需要回想和重述这些真理，那些没有在个人经验上认识伴随着这些真理的能力和光辉的人最初看到和明白这些真理时，似乎看不出它们有什么价值。要本着这些真理最初的新颖和能力把它们传给世人。(《文稿》1890年第22号) {2NL 155.2}
“雄辩的”讲道
藉着取悦感官并满足想象力的诗意描述和奇特介绍，传道人讲道的范围可上达诸天，但这种讲道并不触及普通生活的经验，日常的必需;不能使人深刻明白攸关他们利益的真理。直接的需要，当前的考验，需要的是当前的帮助和力量，也就是需要那生发仁爱并洁净心灵的信心，而不是对实际的基督教日常生活没有任何真实影响的话语。{2NL 155.3}
传道人可能会认为自己用富于想象力的口才，在喂养上帝的羊群方面已经做成了大事;听众也可能认为自己之前从未听过这么美好的题目，从未见过真理以这种美妙的语言装饰起来。上帝既在他们面前被描绘得那么伟大，他们就感到激情洋溢。然而要从因果关系追溯由这些富于想象力的讲道引起的狂喜感觉。其中可能有真理，但它们往往不是那会在他们日常生活的战斗中增强他们力量的食物。(《文稿》1900年第59号){2NL 155.4}
辩论性的讲道
许多争辩性讲道，很少能软化和折服人心。……每一位传道人都有责任阐明基督的丰富。如果不讲述基督将祂的义无偿地赐给世人，证道就枯燥无味，上帝的羊群也得不到喂养。保罗说：“我说的话，讲的道，不是用智慧委婉的言语，乃是用圣灵和大能的明证”(林前2:4)。福音中充溢着满髓和肥甘。耶稣乃是万物的活中心。每一篇讲道都要传讲基督。要思考耶稣基督的可贵、慈悲和荣耀，直到基督在我们心中成为有荣耀的盼望。(《信函》1892年第15号){2NL 155.5}
不是兴奋，而是扎实的工作
被圣灵所浇灌，充分领受基督福音人，会把亮光、安慰和希望带给饥渴慕义的人。我们并不想引起亢奋，而是要引起深刻认真的思考，使听见的人，能作出稳定的工作，就是真实、可靠、纯正的工作，直存到永恒。我们所渴望的，不是兴奋，也不是情绪的激动;我们越少有这种情绪就越好。来自圣经的冷静认真的思考，才是宝贵而有效的。成功的秘诀在于用十分简单而诚恳的态度，来传讲一位永活的个人的救主，使人们能藉着信心持定生命之道的能力。(《信函》1894年102号) {2NL 155.6}
以基督的温柔和爱心讲述真理
要做谨慎的使者。不要急于听从和接受新的理论，因为那些理论往往是决不应该讲在人前的。不要说自夸自高的话，而要从被真理圣化的口中说出上帝的道。每一位传道人都要传讲那在耶稣里的真理。他应当对自己所断言的有把握，应当在上帝圣灵的指示下传讲上帝的道。我的弟兄们，要小心地行在上帝面前，谨慎地在祂面前作工，免得使人因你们的榜样受骗。你们若是把一个人带入歧途，还不如不生在世上更好。{2NL 156.1}
那些自称是上帝仆人的人，需要为获得那罪恶、疾病和忧愁无法侵入的生命殷勤作工。无论得时不得时，他们都要殷勤。{2NL 156.2}
上帝正在呼召会在我们的讲台言辞有力、振奋人心的改革者。何时人们凭着自己的能力说自己的话，而不是靠着圣灵的能力传讲上帝的道，就会在人们没有热心接受他们的话时感到受了伤害和冒犯。那时他们就会受试探说出会在他们听众的心中引起苦毒和反对精神的话语。我的弟兄们啊，要细细思想。这种话不可出自基督使者的口。成圣的口会说出感化人而非激怒人的话语。要本着基督的温柔和爱心传讲真理。(《信函》1907年第348号) {2NL 156.3}
仇敌的诡计
我们应当恳求上帝的启示。同时，我们也要谨慎，不要把所有标榜为新亮光的东西全盘接受。要小心，以免在探索新亮光的幌子下，让撒但把我们思想从基督和现代的特别真理上转移。我蒙指示看到，仇敌的策略就是引人纠缠于枝节问题，就是那些尚未完全启示，或与我们的得救关系不大的问题，以此为重要的“现代真理”，而所作的探索和推测只能把问题搞得更加复杂，扰乱一些本应藉着真理成圣而谋求合一之人的思想。(《信函》1891年第7号){2NL 156.4}
掺杂人类的猜想和臆测
不要让任何一个人提出漂亮的、科学的诡辩哄骗上帝的子民入睡。不要给严肃神圣的现代真理披上人智慧所发明的奇装异服。那些已经在这样做的人要就此止步，并要呼求上帝救他们的灵魂脱离骗人的谎言。 {2NL 156.5}
打动人心的是圣灵活泼的能力，而非那些取悦人、欺骗人的理论。奇幻的表述不是生命的粮;不能救人脱离罪恶。 {2NL 156.6}
基督奉差从天而来，要救赎人类。祂教导了上帝赐给祂要教导人的道理。祂所传讲的真理，就如在新旧约圣经中所见到的，我们今天要传讲为永生上帝的道。{2NL 156.7}
要让那些需要生命之粮的人转向圣经，而不是转向犯错有限之人的教导。要给人们基督从天而来带给我们的生命的粮。不要将人的臆测和猜想掺杂在你们的教训中。但愿人人都知道他们多么需要吃上帝儿子的肉，喝祂的血——使祂的话成为他们实际生命的一部分。(《文稿》1904年第44号){2NL 157.1}
我们的信心以真理为基础
我每天都渴望能尽双倍的本分。我一直在恳求主赐我力量和智慧，好再现在信仰和这信息的早期历史上坚定的见证人们的著作。1844年的定期过去之后，他们领受了亮光并且行在光中，而当自称拥有新亮光的人要带着他们关于圣经不同要点的惊人信息进来时，我们藉着圣灵的感动，拥有中肯的证言，断绝了某某长老一直致力于传讲的那种信息的影响。……{2NL 157.2}
当上帝的大能证明何为真理时，那真理就会永远立定。后来与上帝所赐亮光相反的种种臆测都不可接受。将有人起来解释圣经，自以为是真理，其实不是真理。上帝已经赐给我们现代的真理，作为我们信仰的根基。祂亲自教导我们什么是真理。将会有接二连三的人起来，倡导与上帝藉圣灵的明证所赐下的亮光相矛盾的所谓新亮光。经历了现代真理奠定阶段的人中，还有一些健在。上帝惠赐他们长寿，可以反复重述真理直到他们生命的结束。他们的经历就如使徒约翰一样，见证到最后一刻。至于那些已经逝世的旗手，应该藉着重印他们的著作，让他们继续说话。我蒙指示，他们的声音要让人听到。要让他们为现代的真理继续作证。 {2NL 157.3}
不要接受那些带来一道与我们信仰的特殊要点相矛盾的信息之人的话。他们收集了一大堆经文，堆砌为他们所倡导之学说的证据。在过去五十年里，一再有这样的事发生。圣经是上帝的话，应该得到尊重。但是滥用经文，从上帝在五十年里所奠定的根基上挪移柱石，乃是严重的错误。这样滥用圣经的人根本不明白圣灵的奇妙显现如何给过去赐予上帝子民的信息带来能力。 {2NL 157.4}
某长老的证据是不可靠的，若予接受，就会破坏上帝的子民对已使我们成了何等人的真理的信心。{2NL 157.5}
我们在这个问题上必须坚定;因为他试图藉圣经证明的那些要点并不合理。他的论点不能证明上帝的子民过去的经验是一个错误。我们拥有真理;我们受了上帝天使的指导。圣所问题的表述是在圣灵的指导之下做出的。……上帝决不自相矛盾。若是去强证并不真实的东西，圣经的证据就被误用了。会有一个接一个的人起来，引进自以为的大光，作出他们的主张。但我们支持古老的界标。……我们的工作因没有归正的人、寻求自己荣耀的人而受了阻碍。他们希望人们认为他们是新理论的发明家，他们提出那些理论，声称是真理。但是这些理论若被接受，就会使人拒绝过去五十年来上帝一直在赐给祂子民的真理，祂已藉圣灵的明证坚固了这真理。(《信函》1905年第329号) {2NL 157.6}
已经显明的真理
“你当竭力在上帝面前得蒙喜悦，作无愧的工人，按着正意分解真理的道”(提后2:15)。要学会接受已经启示的真理，加以正确的处理，使之成为上帝羊群的食粮。{2NL 158.1}
我们必遇见有人任由自己的心思对圣经所没有讲述的事进行无益的臆测。上帝已经用最清楚的语言，说明影响人得救的每一个题目。但是祂希望我们避免一切幻想。祂说，今日到我的葡萄园去作工。黑夜将到，那时就没有人能作工了。要停止一切无益的好奇心。要警醒作工和祈祷，研究已经启示的真理。基督希望打破一切空洞的幻想。祂向我们指着庄稼熟透的田地。我们若不殷勤作工，永恒的责任就会压倒我们。……{2NL 158.2}
在使徒的时代，大部分的愚蠢的异端都是当作真理来传播的。历史已经而且还要重演。总有一些看上去很认真的人，实际上是在捕风捉影，把虚妄当作实质，以谬论代替真理，因为谬论穿上了新衣，使他们以为里面有奇妙的东西。但是伪装应该揭去，把虚妄的东西暴露出来。(《评论与通讯》1901年2月5日) {2NL 158.3}
涉及永恒意义的问题
要详细讲述基督所详述的教训，像祂那样将之介绍给人。要仔细研究与我们的永恒福利有关的问题。仇敌能够发明出来使人心转离上帝圣言的任何事，他能造成观点分歧的任何新奇的事，他都会介绍为某种奇妙重要的东西。但是我们不能清楚理解的那些事，其对我们的重要性还不及我们可以清楚领悟并带进我们日常生活中的圣经真理的十分之一。我们要教导人们基督从旧约圣经中引入祂教训中的道理。神圣真理的语言是极其简明的。(《信函》1903年第16号) {2NL 158.4}
对信仰来说不必要的观点
我们所讨论的许多问题对信仰的完整性来说并不是必要的。我们没有时间研究它们。许多事情是我们有限的理解力所无法领会的。接受真理不靠我们有限的理性，也无须我们解释。我们应该毫无疑问地接受所启示的真理为无限上帝的话语。每一个善于寻求的人都应探索在耶稣里的真理。但有些事还没有简单化，有些陈述人的心智若予领会和推断就容易产生人的算计和说明，不会成为活的香气叫人活。 {2NL 158.5}
然而对我们来说必不可少的每一条真理都应该结合到我们的实际生活中来。这关系到我们的得救，应该讲得十分清楚明确。(《信函》1895年第8号){2NL 159.1}
我们对教义争端的态度
我有话对各处各方的弟兄们说。我要求不要把我的著作作为主要依据，来解决教会中存在的许多争端。我恳劝某某、某某、某某三位长老和其他主要负责的弟兄，不要用我的著作来支持他们关于“常”(但8:13)的观点。 {2NL 159.2}
我蒙指示，这不是至关重要的问题。我们的弟兄夸大他们所持观点之间的分歧，这是不对的。我不赞同用我的著作来解决这类问题。不应使“常”的真实含义成为一个考验性问题。 {2NL 159.3}
我现在要求，我的传道弟兄们不要用我的著作来支持他们关于(“常”)这个问题的论点;因为我对这个大家争论的问题没有得到任何指示，我也看不出有争论的必要。关于此事，在目前的情况下，沉默就是雄辩。{2NL 159.4}
我们工作的仇敌看到可以用一个次要问题使我们的弟兄们分心，转离应该成为我们信息主旨的重大问题，他就欢喜了。既然这不是一个考验性问题，我就恳劝弟兄们不要因如此对待此事而让仇敌夸胜。{2NL 159.5}
上帝现在给我们的任务就是要向人传播真光，是有关顺从和救恩的考验性问题——上帝的诫命和耶稣基督的见证。 {2NL 159.6}
一些发行了多年的重要著作给许多人带来了真理的知识。但其中有一些次要问题需要仔细研究和纠正。让那些定期审查我们出版物的人去考虑这些事吧。这些弟兄和书报员以及我们的传道人都不要夸张这些问题，削减了这些救灵好书的影响。如果我们诋毁我们的文字，无疑就是将武器交在那些离开真道的人手中，扰乱新接受信息之人的思想。我们的书籍越少作不必要的改动就越好。 {2NL 159.7}
夜间，我仿佛在向身负重责的弟兄们重复《约翰壹书》的经文。(引用《约翰壹书》第一章) {2NL 159.8}
我们的弟兄应当明白，自我务必降卑，并顺从圣灵的约束。主呼召我们这些拥有大光的人天天归正。这就是我必须向我们的编辑和各区会会长们传达的信息。我们既拥有亮光，就必须行在光中，免得黑暗临到我们。 {2NL 159.9}
所有蒙上帝圣灵带领的人都将拥有末世的信息。他们的心思意念会对生灵有负担，会把基督属天的信息传给与他们交往的人。那些说话像外邦人的人，无法被介绍到天庭。我的弟兄们，要领受亮光，要爱惜光阴，因为现今的世代邪恶。 {2NL 159.10}
撒但正忙着与凡给他鼓励的人合作。那些拥有亮光却不肯行在其中的人，会变得困惑烦恼，直到黑暗弥漫了他们的心灵，影响他们全部的行动。但是他们若遵循真正顺从的道路，在上帝圣言中所启示的上帝良善和智慧的精神就会变得越来越明亮。上帝一切正当的要求都会藉着圣灵的圣化得到满足。…… {2NL 160.1}
有极大的特权和福气给凡愿谦卑虚己、将自己的心完全献给上帝的人。必有大光赐给他们。何时人们愿意得到改变，他们就会受到锻炼以致敬虔。{2NL 160.2}
“从祂丰满的恩典里，我们都领受了，而且恩上加恩”(约1:16)。“我的恩典够你用的，因为我的能力是在人的软弱上显得完全”(林后12:9)。救主说：“天上地下所有的权柄都赐给我了。所以，你们要去使万民作我的门徒，奉父、子、圣灵的名给他们施洗。凡我所吩咐你们的，都教训他们遵守，我就常与你们同在，直到世界的末了”(太28:18-20)。 {2NL 160.3}
我们难道要继续忽略这么多服务的恩典和能力，转身走开，觉得索然无味吗? {2NL 160.4}
我现在受命要传给我们的人的指示，与我在华盛顿时所传的是一样的。上帝要求个人的努力。一个人不能做另一个人的工作。大光一直在照耀，但是没有得到充分的理解和接受。 {2NL 160.5}
我们的弟兄们若是愿意现在就将自己毫无保留地献给上帝，祂就必悦纳他们。祂会使他们心意变化，以便他们成为活的香气叫人活。弟兄姐妹们哪，要醒来，好使你们藉着我们的主基督耶稣实现你们崇高的呼召。(《文稿》1910年第11号) {2NL 160.6}
“Preach the Word”
Much valuable instruction pertaining to the work of the ministry has been published from the pen of Ellen G. White. For the benefit of leading evangelists, however, the following passages relating to the subject matter of their discourses has been compiled from the Manuscript and Letter file.—Trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate. {2NL 153.1}
Let Christ Appear
The object of all ministry is to keep self out of sight, and to let Christ appear. The exaltation of Christ is the great truth that all who labor in word and doctrine are to reveal.—Manuscript 109, 1897.?{2NL 153.2}
Righteousness and Love of Christ
Laborers in the cause of truth should present the righteousness of Christ, not as new light, but as precious light that has for a time been lost sight of by the people. We are to accept of Christ as our personal Saviour, and He imputes unto us the righteousness of God in Christ. Let us repeat and make prominent the truth that John has portrayed, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.”?1 John 4:10.?{2NL 153.3}
In the love of God has been opened the most marvelous vein of precious truth, and the treasures of the grace of Christ are laid open before the church and the world. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”?John 3:16. What love is this, what marvelous, unfathomable love that would lead Christ to die for us while we were yet sinners. What a loss it is to the soul who understands the strong claims of the law, and who yet fails to understand the grace of Christ which doth much more abound.?{2NL 153.4}
It is true that the law of God reveals the love of God when it is preached as the truth in Jesus; for the gift of Christ to this guilty world must be largely dwelt upon in every discourse. It is no wonder that hearts have not been melted by the truth, when it has been presented in a cold and lifeless manner. No wonder faith has staggered at the promises of God, when ministers and workers have failed to present Jesus in His relation to the law of God. How often should they have assured the people that “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?”?Romans 8:32.?{2NL 153.5}
Satan is determined that men shall not see the love of God which led Him to give His only begotten Son to save a lost race; for it is the goodness of God that leads men to repentance. O how shall we succeed in setting forth before the world the deep, precious love of God? In no other way can we compass it except by exclaiming?“Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.”?1 John 3:1. Let us say to sinners, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sins of the world.”?John 1:29. By presenting Jesus as the representative of the Father, we shall be able to dispel the shadow that Satan has cast upon our pathway, in order that we shall not see the mercy and inexpressible love of God as manifested in Jesus Christ. Look at the cross of Calvary. It is a standing pledge of the boundless love, the measureless mercy of the heavenly Father.—Manuscript 154, 1897.?{2NL 153.6}
The Holy Spirit
Christ, the great Teacher, had an infinite variety of subjects from which to choose, but the one upon which He dwelt most largely was the endowment of the Holy Spirit. What great things He predicted for the church because of this endowment. Yet what subject is less dwelt upon now? What promise is less fulfilled? An occasional discourse is given upon the Holy Spirit, and then the subject is left for after consideration.—Manuscript 20, 1891.?{2NL 154.1}
Effect of Preaching the Second Advent
The second coming of the Son of man is to be the wonderful theme kept before the people. Here is a subject that should not be left out of our discourses. Eternal realities must be kept before the mind’s eye, and the attractions of the world will appear as they are, altogether profitless as vanity. What are we to do with the world’s vanities, its praises, its riches, its honors, or its enjoyments??{2NL 154.2}
We are pilgrims and strangers who are waiting, hoping and praying for that blessed hope, the glorious appearing of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. If we believe this and bring it into our practical life, what vigorous action would this faith and hope inspire; what fervent love one for another; what careful holy living for the glory of God, and in our respect for the recompense of the reward, what distinct lines of demarcation would be evidenced between us and the world.—Manuscript 39, 1893.?{2NL 154.3}
Teach Steps in Conversion
Ministers need to have a more clear, simple manner in presenting the truth as it is in Jesus. Their own minds need to comprehend the great plan of salvation more fully. Then they can carry the minds of the hearers away from earthly things to the spiritual and eternal. There are many who want to know what they must do to be saved. They want a plain and clear explanation of the steps requisite in conversion, and there should not a sermon be given unless a portion of that discourse is to especially make plain the way that sinners may come to Christ and be saved. They should point them to Christ, as did John and with touching simplicity, their hearts aglow with the love of Christ, say, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sins of the world.” Strong and earnest appeals should be made to the sinner to repent and be converted.?{2NL 154.4}
Those who neglect this part of the work need to be converted themselves before venturing to give a discourse. Those whose hearts are filled with the love of Jesus, with the precious truths of His word, will be able to draw from the treasure-house of God things new and old. They will not find time to relate anecdotes; they will not strain to become orators, soaring so high that they cannot carry the people with them; but in simple language, with touching earnestness, they will?present the truth as it is in Jesus.—R. & H., Feb. 22, 1887.?{2NL 154.5}
The Ministration of Angels
Over every man good and evil angels strive. It is the man himself who determines which shall win. I call upon the ministers of Christ to press home upon the understanding of all who come within the reach of their voice, the truth of the ministration of angels. Do not indulge in fanciful speculations. The written word is our only safety. We must pray as did Daniel, that we may be guarded by heavenly intelligences.—Letter 201, 1899.?{2NL 155.1}
Revival of Old Advent Truths
There is a work of sacred importance for ministers and people to do. They are to study the history of the cause and people of God. They are not to forget the past dealing of God with His people. They are to revive and recount the truths that have come to seem of little value to those who do not know by personal experience of the power and brightness that accompanied them when they were first seen and understood. In all their original freshness and power these truths are to be given to the world.—Manuscript Ms 22, 1890.?{2NL 155.2} Eloquent Sermons
The minister may make a high range into the heavens, by poetical descriptions, and fanciful presentations which please the senses and feed the imagination, but which do not touch the common life experience, the daily necessities; bringing home to the heart the very truths which are of vital interest. The immediate requirements, the present trials, need present help and strength,—the faith that works by love and purifies the soul, not words which have no real influence upon the living daily walk in practical Christianity.?{2NL 155.3}
The minister may think that with his fanciful eloquence, he has done great things in feeding the flock of God; the hearers may suppose that they never before heard such beautiful themes, they have never seen the truth dressed up in such beautiful language, and as God was represented before them in His greatness, they felt a glow of emotion. But trace from cause to effect all this ecstasy of feeling caused by these fanciful representations. There may be truths, but too often they are not the food that will fortify them for the daily battles of life.—Manuscript 59, 1900.?{2NL 155.4}
Argumentative Sermons
The many argumentative sermons preached, seldom soften and subdue the soul.... It should be the burden of every messenger to set forth the fulness of Christ. When the free gift of Christ’s righteousness is not presented, the discourses are dry and spiritless; the sheep and lambs are not fed. Said Paul, “My speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power.” There is marrow and fatness in the gospel. Jesus is the living center of everything. Put Christ into every sermon. Let the preciousness, mercy and glory of Jesus Christ be dwelt upon; for Christ formed within is the hope of glory.—Letter 15, 1892.?{2NL 155.5}
Not Excitement, But Solid Work
Those who have the outpouring of the gospel of Christ which comes from the heart imbued by His Holy Spirit, will give light and comfort and hope to hearts that are hungering and thirsting for righteousness. It is not excitement we wish to create, but deep, earnest consideration that those who hear shall do solid work, real sound, genuine work that will be?enduring as eternity. We hunger not for excitement, for the sensational; the less we have of this, the better. The calm, earnest reasoning from the Scriptures is precious and fruitful. Here is the secret of success, in preaching a living personal Saviour in so simple and earnest a manner that the people may be able to lay hold by faith of the power of the word of life.—Letter 102, 1894.?{2NL 155.6}
Present Truth in the Meekness and Love of Christ
Be careful messengers. Do not be anxious to hear and accept new theories; for often they are such as should never be presented before any congregation. Speak no boastful, self-exalting words. Let the word of God come forth from lips that are sanctified by the truth. Every minister is to preach the truth as it is in Jesus. He should be assured of that which he affirms, and should handle the word of God under the direction of the Holy Spirit of God. Walk and work carefully before God, my brethren, that no soul may be led into deception by your example. It had been better for you never to have been born, than that you should lead one soul astray.?{2NL 156.1}
Those who profess to be servants of God need to make diligent work for the obtaining of that life where sin and sickness and sorrow cannot enter. They are to be instant in season and out of season.?{2NL 156.2}
God is calling for reformers who will speak strong, uplifting words from our pulpits. It is when men speak their own words in their own strength, instead of preaching the word of God in the power of the Spirit, that they are hurt and offended when their words are not received with enthusiasm. It is then that they are tempted to speak words that will arouse a spirit of bitterness and opposition in their hearers. My brethren, be advised. Such words are not to come from the lips of Christ’s ambassadors. Sanctified lips will speak words that reform, but do not exasperate. The truth is to be presented in the meekness and love of Christ.—Letter 348, 1907.?{2NL 156.3}
A Device of the Enemy
We are to pray for divine enlightenment, but at the same time we should be careful how we receive everything termed new light. We must beware lest, under cover of searching for new truth, Satan shall divert our minds from Christ and the special truths for this time. I have been shown that it is the device of the enemy to lead minds to dwell upon some obscure or unimportant point, something that is not fully revealed or is not essential to our salvation. This is made the absorbing theme, the “present truth,” when all their investigations and suppositions only serve to make matters more obscure than before, and to confuse the minds of some who ought to be seeking for oneness through sanctification of the truth.—Letter 7, 1891.?{2NL 156.4}
Mingling Human Suppositions and Conjectures
Let no one present beautiful, scientific sophistries to lull the people of God to sleep. Clothe not the solemn, sacred truth for this time in any fantastic dress of man’s wisdom. Let those who have been doing this stop and cry unto God to save their souls from deceiving fables.?{2NL 156.5}
It is the living energy of the Holy Spirit that will move hearts, not pleasing, deceptive theories. Fanciful representations are not the bread of life; they can not save the soul from sin.?{2NL 156.6}
Christ was sent from heaven to?redeem humanity. He taught the doctrines that God gave Him to teach. The truths that He proclaimed, as found in the Old Testament and the New, we today are to proclaim as the word of the living God.?{2NL 156.7}
Let those who want the bread of life go to the Scriptures, not to the teaching of finite, erring man. Give the people the bread of life that Christ came from heaven to bring to us. Do not mix with your teaching human suppositions and conjectures. Would that all knew how much they need to eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God,—to make His words a part of their very lives.—Manuscript 44, 1904.?{2NL 157.1} Our Faith Founded on Truth
I long daily to be able to do double duty. I have been pleading with the Lord for strength and wisdom to reproduce the writings of the witnesses who were confirmed in the faith and in the early history of the message. After the passing of the time in 1844, they received the light and walked in the light, and when the men claiming to have new light would come in with their wonderful messages regarding various points of Scripture, we had, through the moving of the Holy Spirit, testimonies right to the point, which cut off the influence of such messages as Elder ----- has been devoting his time to presenting....?{2NL 157.2}
When the power of God testifies as to what is truth, that truth is to stand forever as the truth. No after-suppositions, contrary to the light God has given are to be entertained. Men will arise with interpretations of Scripture which are to them truth, but which are not truth. The truth for this time, God has given us as a foundation for our faith. He Himself has taught us what is truth. One will arise, and still another with new light, which contradicts the light that God has given under the demonstration of His Holy Spirit. A few are still alive who passed through the experience gained in the establishment of this truth. God has graciously spared their lives to repeat and repeat till the close of their lives, the experience through which they passed even as did John the apostle till the very close of his life. And the standard bearers who have fallen in death, are to speak through the reprinting of their writings. I am instructed that thus their voices are to be heard. They are to bear their testimony as to what constitutes the truth for this time.?{2NL 157.3}
We are not to receive the words of those who come with a message that contradicts the special points of our faith. They gather together a mass of Scripture, and pile it as proof around their asserted theories. This has been done over and over again during the past fifty years. And while the Scriptures are God’s Word, and are to be respected, the application of them, if such application moves one pillar from the foundation that God has sustained these fifty years, is a great mistake. He who makes such an application knows not the wonderful demonstration of the Holy Spirit that gave power and force to the past messages that have come to the people of God.?{2NL 157.4}
Elder -----’s proofs are not reliable. If received they would destroy the faith of God’s people in the truth that has made us what we are.?{2NL 157.5}
We must be decided on this subject; for the points that he is trying to prove by Scripture, are not sound. They do not prove that the past experience of God’s people was a fallacy. We had the truth; we were directed by the angels of God. It was under the guidance of the Holy Spirit that the?presentation of the sanctuary question was given.... God never contradicts Himself. Scripture proofs are misapplied if forced to testify to that which is not true. Another and still another will arise and bring in supposedly great light, and make their assertions. But we stand by the old land marks.... We are hindered in our work by men who are not converted, who seek their own glory. They wish to be thought originators of new theories, which they present claiming that they are truth. But if these theories are received they will lead to a denial of the truth that for the past fifty years God has been giving to His people, substantiating it by the demonstration of the Holy Spirit.—Letter 329, 1905.?{2NL 157.6}
The Truths That Have Been Revealed
“Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” Learn to take the truths that have been revealed, and to handle them in such a way that they will be food for the flock of God.?{2NL 158.1}
We shall meet those who allow their minds to wander into idle speculations about things of which nothing is said in the word of God. God has spoken in the plainest language upon every subject that affects the salvation of the soul. But He desires us to avoid all day-dreaming, and He says, Go work today in my vineyard. The night cometh wherein no man can work. Cease all idle curiosity; watch, and work, and pray. Study the truths that have been revealed. Christ desires to break up all vacant reveries, and He points us to the fields ripe for the harvest. Unless we work earnestly, eternity will overwhelm us with its burden of responsibility....?{2NL 158.2}
In the days of the apostles the most foolish heresies were presented as truth. History has been and will be repeated. There will always be those who, though apparently conscientious, will grasp at the shadow, preferring it to the substance. They take error in the place of truth, because error is clothed with a new garment, which they think covers something wonderful. But let the covering be removed, and nothingness appears.—R. and H., February 5, 1901.?{2NL 158.3}
Questions of Eternal Import
Dwell upon the lessons that Christ dwelt upon. Present them to the people as He presented them. Dwell upon questions that concern our eternal welfare. Anything that the enemy can devise to divert the mind from God’s word, anything new and strange that he can originate to create a diversity of sentiment, he will introduce as something wonderfully important. But those things that we cannot clearly comprehend are not a tenth as important to us as are the truths of God’s word, that we can clearly comprehend and bring into our daily life. We are to teach the people the lessons that Christ brought into His teachings from the Old Testament Scriptures. The language of divine truth is exceedingly plain.—Letter 16, 1903.?{2NL 158.4}
Points Unnecessary for Faith
There are many questions treated upon that are not necessary for the perfection of the faith. We have no time for their study. Many things are above finite comprehension.?Truths are to be received not within the reach of our reason, and not for us to explain. Revelation presents them to us to be implicitly received as the words of an infinite God. While every ingenious inquirer is to search out the truth as it is in Jesus, there are things not yet simplified, statements that?human minds cannot grasp and reason out, without being liable to make human calculation and explanations, which will not prove a savor of life unto life.?{2NL 158.5}
But every truth which is essential for us to bring into our practical life, which concerns the salvation of the soul, is made very clear and positive.—Letter 8, 1895.?{2NL 159.1}
Our Attitude Toward Doctrinal Controversy
I have words to speak to my brethren east and west, north and south. I request that my writings shall not be used as the leading argument to settle questions over which there is now so much controversy. I entreat of Elders -----, -----, -----, and others of our leading brethren, that they make no reference to my writings to sustain their views of “the daily.”?{2NL 159.2}
It has been presented to me that this is not a subject of vital importance. I am instructed that our brethren are making a mistake in magnifying the importance of the difference in the views that are held. I can not consent that any of my writings shall be taken as settling this matter. The true meaning of “the daily” is not to be made a test question.?{2NL 159.3}
I now ask that my ministering brethren shall not make use of my writings in their arguments regarding this question [“the daily”]; for I have had no instruction on the point under discussion, and I see no need for the controversy. Regarding this matter under present conditions, silence is eloquence.?{2NL 159.4}
The enemy of our work is pleased when a subject of minor importance can be used to divert the minds of our brethren from the great questions that should be the burden of our message. As this is not a test question, I entreat of my brethren that they shall not allow the enemy to triumph by having it treated as such.?{2NL 159.5}
The work that the Lord has given us at this time is to present to the people the true light in regard to the testing questions of obedience and salvation,—the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ.?{2NL 159.6}
In some of our important books that have been in print for years, and which have brought many to a knowledge of the truth, there may be found matters of minor importance that call for careful study and correction. Let such matters be considered by those regularly appointed to have the oversight of our publications. Let not these brethren, nor our canvassers, nor our ministers magnify these matters in such a way as to lessen the influence of these good soul-saving books. Should we take up the work of discrediting our literature, we would place weapons in the hands of those who have departed from the faith, and confuse the minds of those who have newly embraced the message. The less that is done unnecessarily to change our publications, the better it will be.?{2NL 159.7}
In the night seasons I seem to be repeating to my brethren in responsible positions, words from the first epistle of John. [Chapter 1?is quoted.]?{2NL 159.8}
Our brethren should understand that self needs to be humbled, and brought under the control of the Holy Spirit. The Lord calls upon those of us who have had great light to be converted?daily. This is the message I have to bear to our editors and to the presidents of all our conferences. We must walk in the light while we have the light, lest darkness come upon us.?{2NL 159.9}
All who are led by the Holy Spirit of God will have a message for this?last time. With mind and heart they will be carrying a burden for souls, and they will bear the heavenly message of Christ to those with whom they associate. Those who in speech act as the Gentiles act, can not be introduced into the heavenly courts. My brethren, receive the light, redeeming the time because the days are evil.?{2NL 159.10}
Satan is busily working with all who will give him encouragement. Those who have the light, but refuse to walk in it, will become confused, until darkness pervades their souls, and shapes their whole course of action. But the spirit of wisdom and goodness of God as revealed in His word, will become brighter and brighter as they follow on in the path of true obedience. All the righteous demands of God will be met through sanctification of the Holy Spirit ....?{2NL 160.1}
There are great privileges and blessings for all who will humble themselves, and fully consecrate their hearts to God. Great light will be given to them. When men are willing to be transformed, then they will be exercised unto godliness.?{2NL 160.2}
“And of His fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.” “My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Says the Saviour: “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.”?{2NL 160.3}
Shall this wealth of grace and power for service continue among us to be unappreciated and turned from, without relish or appetite??{2NL 160.4}
The instruction I am bidden to give to our people now is the same as I gave while in Washington. The Lord calls for individual effort. One can not do the work of another. Great light has been shining, but it has not been fully comprehended and received.?{2NL 160.5}
If our brethren will now consecrate themselves, unreservedly to God, He will accept them. He will give them a transformation of mind, that they may be savors of life unto life. Wake up, brethren and sisters, that you may attain to your high calling through Christ Jesus our Lord.—Manuscript 11, 1910.?{2NL 160.6}
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