[奥尔森长老：这是按日期在加利福尼亚写的。我已经把它重新抄写了。请使用它，因为这正是现在所必需的。怀爱伦夫人于澳大利亚新南威尔士州库兰邦，1896年8月26日。]
1874年4月1日
城市中的工作
我梦见我们有几位弟兄正在开议事会，筹划当前的工作。他们以为最好不到大城市中，而只到那远离城市的小地方去开工，因为在那里既少遭遇到各教会领袖的反对，又能避免浩大的开销。他们所持的理由是：我们的传道人为数既少，故无法再去教导及照应那些可在城市中领受真理的人，而且这些城市中的人因要遇到更大的反对，所需要的帮助也会比小地方教会的人更大。这样一来，那在城市中连续作布道演讲所结的果子，大部分就要损失掉了。再者，有人曾坚称：因为我们经济有限，又因为大城市教会难免因人的移动而多所更张，颇难成立一个强有力的教会。我的丈夫劝请各位弟兄要毫不迟延地从事更广大的计划，要在各大城市中奋勉全力来推进圣工，以便与我们信息的性质更为相称。有一位同工述说他在城市作工的经验，显明他的工作是濒于失败，并且还证明在小地方作工，是较有成效的。{SpTA07 2.1}
那有尊严有威权的一位，也就是那参赴我们一切议事会的一位，当时正带着极强烈的兴趣听着每一句话。祂郑重而完全有保证地说：“这整个的世界乃是上帝的大葡萄园。城市与乡村都是这葡萄园的一部分。这些地方都必须从事工作，不能被忽视。撒但企图介入，尽力令工人们灰心丧胆，以便阻止他们，使之不在那较为重要的通都大邑中，也像在偏僻的小地方一样，传扬光明的信息及警告。他将奋不顾身地努力要使众人离开上帝的真理，听从虚谎。天上的使者奉命来与上帝所派定在地上的信使协力同工。传讲真理的人必须鼓励信心及盼望，像他们永活的元首基督所行的一样。他们必须在上帝面前保持谦卑痛悔的心，对上帝的应许保持毫不动摇的信心。”{SpTA07 3.1}
上帝定意要祂宝贵的道与其警告人及鼓励人的信息，能传给凡在黑暗之中及不知我们信仰的人。不要觉得那劝服及使听众归正的责任乃是放在你自己的身上。因为惟有上帝的能力才能软化人们的心。祂属天的智慧与你们的努力合作，将生命的道和救恩伟给将亡的人。要将警告的信息传给一切的人，不论他们听或不听，都向他们作见证。你要将生命的道表明出来，使一切的人只要愿意，都有机会接受真理。如果他们转离了这发源于天的真理，这真理就要定他们的罪了。{SpTA07 3.2}
我们切不可试图把真理隐藏在世上的角落。它必须被公开传扬;它必须在大城市中照耀。基督在作工的时候与门徒们站在一起，选择海边及通渠大道上，以便与世界各处来的人相会。祂发出真光;祂散布福音的种子，祂抢救真理脱离那与之相混的异端，并照其简洁而清楚的本色宣讲出来，以便人们可以领会。{SpTA07 4.1}
那与我们同在的天上的使者说：“你们始终不可忘记这一事实，即你们所传的信息，乃为一种普及全球的信息。这信息要传至一切城邑，一切乡村;并要在大道及小路上宣扬。你们不可使这信息的传扬只限于一区一地。”在撒种的比喻中，基督曾形容祂自己和祂仆人的工作。种子落在各种的土地上。那撒在好土上的就结出果实来，有三十倍的，有六十倍的，有一百倍的。然而有些种子是落在贫瘠的土地上，就结不出永生的果子来。但撒种的人却不因此而停止其工作。你们要在各处播撒真理的种子。无论何往，都要将上帝的道表明出来。务要在各水边撒种。你们也许不能立刻见到自己工作的果效，但却不要因此灰心。你们要传说基督所给你们的道，按着祂的方针作工，照祂给你们树立的榜样，前往各处传道。{SpTA07 4.2}
世界的救赎主有不少的听众，但信从者却是无几。在洪水之前，挪亚虽然向人传道一百二十年之久，但罕有人重视这宝贵的宽容时期，除了挪亚和他的全家之外，没有一人信从并进入方舟。在地上的一切居民之中，只有八人接受那信息;然而那信息便定了那时代的罪。亮光的颁赐，为要使他们可以相信;他们拒绝这光，便遭受了毁灭。本会的信息对于一切接受的人，要成为活的香气叫人活;但对于一切拒绝的人，却要定他们的罪。{SpTA07 5.1}
这使者又转向一位参赴会议的人说：“你对于现今工作所有的观念，未免过于拘泥。你正在制定计划以便更容易地把整个工作都包揽在你怀中。你的亮光不应当只限于一个小范围内，放在斗底下或是床底下;而应放在灯台上，就照亮全家的人。家就是世界。你必须对工作抱有更广大的眼光，远胜于你所已有的。”{SpTA07 5.2}
应付批评
你们要穿戴上帝的全副军装，稳步前进，不要因批评、羞辱或责难而大受影响。要记住，上帝所派的使者必须出到营外，为基督的缘故忍受凌辱。无论什么事情临到你们，都要记住，基督已为你们忍受了这一切，而且比这些更多。你们无论可能采取怎样的做法，都会有人批评你们，责难你们。要本着敬畏和热爱上帝的心前进，用信心加强你们自己，在主里有勇气，始终保持愉悦。真理的影响是严肃、鼓舞人心、使人高贵的。传给世界的警告信息应当使人将注意力从尘世的东西转向永恒的利益。真理将永远使接受者成圣;传讲真理的人，必须藉著真理成圣。但是当他们做出特别的努力去适应听众的特殊想法和感受时，为了避免批评，他们就会削弱自己的见证，达不到他们想要达到的目标。他们就会不公正地对待他们的使命，不公正地对待他们自己，也不公正地对待那些批评他们的人。凡正在为主作工的人都能够也应该改善自己的工作方法，然而他们惟有在殷勤研究基督的生活并实行其美德的时候，才能这么做。不要允许怨言和挑剔削弱你们的手，使你们希望渺茫。“但要尊万军之耶和华为圣，以祂为你们所当怕的，所当畏惧的”(赛8:13)。{SpTA07 5.3}
简短讲道;圣经课
要向人们讲明真理的真实重要性和神圣性，而且要注意不要在一次讲道中给他们讲太多。你如果这样做，他们就记不住你所讲的。冗长的演讲减损你工作的效能。对那些不知道真理的人来说，你的教导是新颖奇怪的，他们不容易领会。有危险向他们倾倒大量他们无法消化的东西。“所以耶和华向他们说的话是命上加命，令上加令，律上加律，例上加例，这里一点，那里一点”(赛28:13)。我们需要研究祂的教导方法。我们有给世人的最重要最明确的证言，我们必须用简明的语言给人们作简短的讲道。不要以为你讲过一个题目就可以讲其它要点，听众把你所讲的都记住了。{SpTA07 6.1}
太快地从一点讲解到另一点，是危险的。应当经常进行短篇的讲解。你的工作不仅仅是讲道，也要服务。你很大的一部分工作应当是为许多家庭和个人所作的个人之工。在你向人打开了真理的宝贵矿藏之后，还有一项大工要为开始对这些题目感兴趣之人做。在短讲之后，应当变换活动的次序，给愿意的人机会留下来交谈，或是在查经班上，让他们就困扰他们的题目提出问题。在这些圣经课上，你会在与人接触方面取得重大的成功。与传道人一起工作的人，应当耐心温柔地作出特别的努力，引导提问者明白真理。如果你只向一个人讲解真理，那个人彻底信服之后，就会将真光传给别人。这些考验性真理非常重要，会一再传扬出去，感动许多听众的心。人就这些事所做的决定对他们来说意义重大。{SpTA07 7.1}
上帝赐给人的一切才干，都应该得到聪明地利用，每项才干都会通过运用而变得越来越有效能。要指望从耶稣得忠告，并且向祂学习使人们感兴趣的最佳方法，灌输能给人留下深刻印象的想法。你们要高举上帝的灵和能力，多多祈求祂的引导。{SpTA07 7.2}
需要保持活力
决不要在冗长而令人疲倦的一次讲道中用尽你的活力，以致你没有储备的体力和智力去应付爱追根究底的心，耐心地设法消除他们的疑惑，坚固他们的信心。要显明我们正在处理重要的论据，你们知道这论据是无可反驳的。要言传身教地教导人知道真理是宝贵的;它光照了你的悟性且使你有勇敢的心。要保持愉快的面容。你若本着爱心传讲真理就会这样做。始终要谨记永恒的利益在危急之中，且要预备好为那些要求帮助的人做个人之工。{SpTA07 8.1}
人们必须有理论以外的东西;他们必须有来自天上的生命的粮。要用简明的语言告诉每一个人必须做什么才能得救。上帝是你们的帮助者;祂号召你们要宣扬基督那隐藏的、不可测的丰富恩典。不要传讲你们的虚言，而要传讲基督。要让祂公义的光照进你们心里，彰显在你们的教导中。对基督的活泼信心必须成为每一次布道的经纬，每一堂讲道的总归和实质;必须将它交织在每一次的呼吁和祈祷中。于是你们才会显明你们永生的盼望集中在祂身上。你们需要祈求关于圣经的神圣启迪;因为上帝的道乃是灵和生命，——是生命树的叶子，医治万民。要在圣经的真理中搜寻隐藏的珍宝。你们就必获得你们还没有的宝贵知识。{SpTA07 8.2}
发声器官的使用
要小心关注和训练发音器官。这些器官可以藉着正确的使用而加强。但如果使用不当，也会使它们削弱。如果一再过度使用，比如在长篇讲道中，就不仅会损害发音器官，还会使整个神经系统过度紧张。那台有一千根琴弦的精致竖琴陈旧了，无法修理，发出的就是杂音而不是美妙的音乐了。{SpTA07 9.1}
每一个说话的人都必须训练发音器官，使之保持在健康的状态，以便对人传达生命之道。每一个人都要聪明而最有效地使用上帝所赐的才能，实践自己所学过的知识。说话不必大声或高调;这会给说话的人带来很大的伤害。说得太快会使一堂讲道的效果损失过半，因为无法把话说得清楚而从容，让听众有时间去领会每一句话的意思。人声是上帝的宝贵恩赐;它是一种为善的力量。耶和华要祂的仆人保持声音感人的力量和悦耳的音调。要训练声音，增进其音质，使它能美妙地落入人的耳中并打动人心。但是发音器官却奇怪地被滥用了，使讲话的人大大受损，也使听的人很不舒服。{SpTA07 9.2}
上帝要求人说话不要凭心血来潮，而要冷静行动，慢慢地说，让圣灵使真理生效。决不要以为激情迸发，慷慨陈辞，痛心疾首地把声音提到不自然的高度，就证明上帝的大能临到你身上了。凡在基督的门下学习，允许上帝支使他们的人，都要培养声音，以便给人留下最佳印象，尊荣他们向人们传讲的真理。耶和华要求灵与魂与身子毫无保留地降服，以便上帝的能力在你为祂服务的整个期间藉着你的活力和能力行事。{SpTA07 10.1}
你要有深远的感化力，你讲话的能力要受理智的控制。你绷紧发音器官，就使声音失去了抑扬顿挫。要坚决克服讲话过快的毛病。上帝要求人提供力所能及的一切服务。委托给人的一切才干都应得到珍爱和赏识，当作上天的宝贵恩赐来使用。在收割园地里工人乃是上帝指定的代表、祂能藉以传达天上亮光的通道。粗心浪费地使用上帝所赐的任何一种能力，都降低了他们的效率，所以在紧急情况下，当可以成就最大善工的时候，他们却如此软弱多病而且残废，以致所能成就的很少。{SpTA07 10.2}
上帝今日工人的有利地位
上帝现今的工人构成了以前的工人，就是历史上的教会和将要从世界蒙召出来预备迎见主的将来教会之间的连接环。属灵生命之潮将要藉着指定的渠道涌流，像在过去的历史中一样。从一个时代到另一个时代，上帝赐给世界的亮光传给了战斗中的教会，而且上帝正在继续传授宝贵的亮光。凡领受亮光的人都应当将它散布给那些坐在黑暗中的人。从以往的时代到现在，来自真理信仰的所有优点美德，都应受到最大的尊重。不要让所托付给我们保管的真理因我们粗心滥用身体或心智而失去它的力量和能力。{SpTA07 11.1}
现在的工人看到从前的工人怎样削弱了他们的能力，以致上帝的圣工损失了他们的服务时，应该受到激励做出改进。要让那些犯过错误之人的历史和经验成为别人的鉴戒。上帝希望祂的仆人们活着，而不是在完成他们的工作之前就死去。大家都应不断地寻求学习最好的工作方法，应该善用他们的体力、智力和道德力。{SpTA07 11.2}
很多时候，那些感受到真理的重要性，并且渴望宣扬生命之道的人，却发现自己因缺乏体力而中断了操劳。要达到重要的目的，要完成大量的工作，要是人们将被圣灵使用去以大能从事那项工作，他们就必须聪明地工作，并使自己保持在适合成功的最佳状态。{SpTA07 11.3}
真理的合适表达
要用适当的言语表达真理的能力和光辉。你要说出内心涌现的喜乐和感激之情，因为看到自己心灵的生产之痛使罪人回转。但在向人们讲话时，记得要及时停止。不要使自己疲倦以致变得神经紧张疲惫不堪，因为你在讲道之外要做的工作需要机智和能力。这会成为一种强有力的为善力量，就像令人愉快的馨香之气升到上帝面前。{SpTA07 12.1}
主要求每一个教师都与听他讲道并开始对真理感兴趣的人熟悉起来。要说合时宜的话，并为那些需要帮助和亮光的人祷告。这种个人之工切不可受到忽视。你们自己的灵魂会因此受益，你所为之操劳的那些人也必蒙福。你宗教经验的性质将由你对神圣事物日益增长的认识所决定。习惯与上帝交流是绝对必要的，以便你维持你道路的平稳状态。在恩典和认识我们主耶稣基督的知识上长进会使你增加为善的能力。你就会拥有来自上头的智慧。你就不会表现你自己的精神，不会用低劣的话语将凡火与圣火掺杂。上帝已经做好准备，祂的工人应当成为活的荐信，为众人所知道，所念诵。{SpTA07 12.2}
工人的团结
现在与在基督的日子一样，祂的仆人们必受试探争取最高地位。要当心，不要放纵这种自私自利的精神;因为这会成为你灵性的一大障碍。主并没有将彼得和约翰摆在你们面前，告诉你们，他们是你们的上级，你们要效法他们。那时耶稣叫了一个小孩子来，使他站在门徒当中，祂说：“我实在告诉你们，你们若不回转，变成小孩子的样式，断不得进天国。所以，凡自己谦卑像这小孩子的，他在天国里就是最大的。凡为我的名接待一个像这小孩子的，就是接待我。凡使这信我的一个小子跌倒的，倒不如把大磨石拴在这人的颈项上，沉在深海里”(太18:3-6)。{SpTA07 13.1}
耶稣为祂的门徒祷告：“父啊，奉祢的名保守他们;”但你们必须尽自己的本分，并与上帝合作。如果有人变得粗心大意不顾后果，没能在所有情况下都保守自己在上帝的爱里，狡猾的仇敌就肯定会占有他们。你们现在也许以为自己的脚站得很稳，决不会动摇。你们也许会诧异地问：“什么会使我改变信仰?什么会减少我对上帝和对弟兄们的爱?我知道我所信的是谁。我决不会放弃真理。”然而撒但正在计划利用你养成的和遗传的品格特性，并且蒙蔽你的眼睛，叫你看不见你自己的需要和缺陷，以便他筛你们像筛麦子一样。惟有藉着谦卑的信心，藉着不断意识到自己的软弱，向上帝恳切祈祷，并且警醒祷告，你们才能安全地行走。{SpTA07 13.2}
探求真理者的态度
你们要谨慎，十分敬畏地查考圣经，因为其中有奇妙的真理。藉着真理，你们要得到更新，重塑品格，以便带有上帝的印记。有亮光，宝贵的亮光，给所有内心被上帝的灵软化折服的人。他们必喜乐地接受公义日头的明亮光束。凡上帝所写的，都是为了指教众人。凡祂认为有必要默示神人去写的，都是为了教化你们。惟有实践真理的道，你们才是安全的;你们会成为上帝在世上的擎光者。要仔细虔诚地研究上帝的道，以便明白关于灵魂得救的重大真理。自信和自负决不会证明是一种拯救你们的能力。存谦卑的心，殷勤寻求上帝的恩典，深深挖掘，知道何为真理，你们的根基才会稳固。必须努力将真理摆在人们面前;你们需要不断地意识到自己对上帝的倚赖。{SpTA07 14.1}
但愿不要有一个人以为自己的恩赐对上帝的工作来说是足够了;以为自己就能维持一系列的聚会，完成圣工。他的方法可能是好的，但是各种不同的恩赐仍是必不可少的;一个人不应按照自己的特殊想法模塑圣工。为了使工程建造得坚固匀称，需要有各种恩赐和媒介，全部接受主的指导。祂会按照工人各自的才能教导他们。就一个和谐的整体而言，合作与团结是必不可少的，每个工人都做上帝赐给自己的工作，担任适合自己的职位，并且弥补别人的不足。若是留下一个工人独自工作，就会有危险，使他以为自己的才干足以完成全部的工作。何处的工人团结合一，何处就有机会彼此协商，一起祷告，合作同工。谁也不该因为弟兄们的工作战线与自己不同，就感到自己不能与弟兄们合作。那些怀有这种想法的人，表明他们自己的内心和品格上需要上帝使人归正的能力，以便他们的特性不至于阻碍同胞得救的工作。{SpTA07 14.2}
各种才干需要结合
在工人中间会有一些人积极主动，充满活力;有一些人则缓慢迟钝。他们那么久才能做出决定，以致要是遵循他们的方式，许多宝贵的时间就浪费了，而且耽搁往往证明是危险的。缓慢的工人应当不断地向殷勤迅速的工人学习。“殷勤不可懒惰。要心里火热，常常服事主”(罗12:11)。每一个参与基督服务的人都应该不断感到自己是一个工人，应该改善自己的习惯和工作方式。他应当与弟兄们融合在一起，而不是自以为自己的工作方法是最好的。要让他在基督的门下学习柔和谦卑的功课。凡确实向基督学习的人必以基督的路线作工;于是我们就一定会和谐。那倾向于批评和贬低弟兄的人，会发现上帝的灵不与他同在。他并没有听从看别人比自己强的命令;反而像自以为义的法利赛人一样，将弟兄的工作与自己的工作相比较。每一个工人既与上帝合作，就要像基督那样工作。{SpTA07 15.1}
你们必须不断学习，不断前进。没有人能站在我们的位置，做我们个人的工作。没有制定一个常规叫弟兄们行在其中这种事;没有传道人能将工作揽在自己有限的膀臂里，指示其他每一个人要怎样工作。你们必须藉着上帝可能差来的任何一个渠道接受帮助。你们有更多经验的人必须教导那些较少经验的人如何作工。要将他们带在你们身边，教育他们，耐心地对待他们。决不要藉着严厉尖锐的话和不仁慈的批评关闭心门。要让上帝的爱在你们自己的心中作主，并且传达给你们的同工。{SpTA07 16.1}
世界范围的工作
……时光短暂，凡相信这信息的人都应该感到自己肩负一项庄严的义务，就是要作全心全意、无私的工人，始终在正确的一边发挥影响，决不藉着言语或行为使自己列身反对那些正在设法增进和推进工作的人。我们弟兄的想法总的来说太狭隘了;他们期望得太少了;他们的信心太微弱了。真正的信心是所望之事的实底，是未见之事的确据。如果现在相信信息的少数人不给仇敌留地步，就会无私地将他们的努力集中在增进上帝的圣工这一个目标上，现代真理就必在某地成为一股能力。{SpTA07 16.2}
但你的工作概念需要大大扩大。我们的信息应当以大能传到世界各地，……传给各国、各方、各民。许多国家正等着上帝要赐给他们的先进亮光，你们的信心必须增长，以便你们能满足这时候的要求。要前进和上进;上帝必按照你们的信心和献身来行事，以推进祂的圣工。然而你们若是高抬自我，不存谦卑的心行在祂面前，祂就不能将祂圣灵的恩赐委托给你们;因为这会抬举你们到灭亡的地步。你们必遭遇反对和挫折;但你们若是谦卑虔诚地行事为人，不断考虑基督在祂的工作中既不灰心也不丧胆，上帝就必行在你们前面。要记住，谈论不可能的事并不是信心。在上帝没有不可能的事。{SpTA07 17.1}
一个决定性问题
关于上帝律法的约束性要求的亮光应当在各地得到传扬。这将是一个决定性的问题。这会测试和检验世人。人们会找到许多明显的理由来为他们拒绝亮光和证据开脱;他们会冒险采取不顺从的做法，想要回避责任和责备。每一位真理的教师，每一位上帝的同工，都必经历考察和试验的时辰。那时信心与耐心要受到严峻的考验。你要预备好靠着基督的恩典前进，尽管道路上有似乎无法逾越的障碍。在一切紧急情况下，你都有随时的帮助。主允许你遭遇障碍，是要让你寻求祂，祂是你的力量和满足。要极其恳切地祈求来自上帝的智慧。祂必在你前面开路。如果你愿意谦卑地行在祂面前，祂就必赐给你宝贵的胜利。{SpTA07 17.2}
只应遵从上帝的计划
你不应限制以色列的圣者，祂的权能亘古就有，祂的踪迹何其难寻。你若规划你期待上帝藉以作工的方式，就必失望。天国来到不是眼所能见的。你应当让上帝以祂自己的方式行事，你行事为人必须凭着信心，而不是凭着眼见。上帝有一项工作要完成，那是一项非常严肃神圣的工作。遵循你自己设计的计划是不明智的。一些现在传达真理信息的人会让旗帜从作他们手中掉落，拖曳在尘埃，然后被践踏在他们脚下。一些现在处于错谬黑暗中的人将会接受真理，得以归正，且会高举现在掌旗之人手中的旗帜。你惟一的指望在于坚定地倚赖上帝。要警醒祷告;本着盼望前进，表示感激，显出信心在你自己心灵里的胜利，别人就会影响要听从上帝的引导。{SpTA07 18.1}
上帝希望我们将祂所赐的亮光照耀世界。这亮光若不被人看见就毫无价值。我向你宣布，你必须站在山上;你的必须扩展，不仅看到近处的事，也要看到远处的事。撒但会有大量困难要阻碍我们前进。然而当以色列人上到红海时，上帝指示摩西要吩咐他们往前走，上帝所赐给摩西的杖一碰触，红海就分开了，留下一条平坦的道路让以色列人走过。在我们的工作中也会如此。{SpTA07 19.1}
要阅读并仔细考虑《列王记下》第三章。你将有与这一章中所提出的类似的信心的考验。凡不倚赖自己所能做的，而是倚赖上帝为他们和藉着他们所能做的之人，都必在自己的工作中认识到祂的能力。上帝必以最料想不到的方式行事。那能扭转与仇敌作战的形势的，并不是你自己的力量，而是众军大能统帅的力量，祂为祂自己圣名的荣耀行事。{SpTA07 19.2}
耶和华说：“你们是我的见证。”要趁着白日作工，因为黑夜来到，就没有人能作工了。{SpTA07 19.3}
怀爱伦夫人
【Methods of Labor】
[Elder Olsen: This was written in California as dated. I have had it recopied. Please use it, for it is just what is essential now. Mrs. E.G.W. Cooranbong, N.S.W., Australia, August 26, 1896.]April 1, 1874.[1]
【Work in the Cities】
I dreamed that several of our brethren were in council, considering plans of labor for this season. They thought it best not to enter the large cities, but to begin work in small places, remote from the cities; here they would not meet so great opposition from the clergy, and would avoid so large expense. They reasoned that since our ministers are so few, they could not be spared to instruct and care for those who might accept the truth in the cities, and who, because of the greater opposition, would need more help than the churches would in small country places; thus the fruit of giving a course of lectures in the city would in a great measure be lost. Again, it was urged that with the little means we have, it would be difficult to conduct the work in such a way as to build up a church that would be a strength to the cause in a large city, where so many changes from moving might be expected. My husband was urging the brethren to make broader plans without delay, and put forth, in our large cities, extended and thorough effort, which would better correspond to the character of our message. One related incidents of his experience in the cities, showing?that the work was nearly a failure, but said he could testify to better success in the small places.{SpTA07 2.1}[2]
A dignified looking personage, who had been repeatedly presented to me in my dreams as making one in our council meetings, and who seemed to have authority, was listening with the deepest interest to every word. He spoke with deliberation and with perfect assurance. “The whole world,” he said, “is God’s great vineyard. The cities and villages constitute a part of that vineyard. These must be worked, and not passed by. Satan will try to interpose himself, so as to discourage the workers, and prevent them from giving the message of light and warning in the more important as well as in the more secluded places. Desperate efforts will be made to turn the people from the truth of God to falsehood. Angels of heaven are commissioned to work with the efforts of God’s appointed messengers. The preachers of the truth must encourage faith and hope, as did Christ, your Living Head. Keep humble and contrite in heart before God. Maintain an unwavering faith in the promises of God.”{SpTA07 3.1}[3]
God designs that his precious word, with its messages of warning and encouragement, shall come to those who are in darkness, and are ignorant of our faith. Do not feel that the responsibility rests upon you to convict and convert the hearers. It is the power of God alone that can soften the hearts of the people. His heavenly intelligences co-operate with your efforts in presenting the words of life and salvation to those who are ready to perish. The message of warning is to be given to all, and will be to them a witness, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear. You are?to hold forth the word of life, that all may have an opportunity of receiving the truth if they will. If they turn from the truth of heavenly origin, it will be their condemnation.{SpTA07 3.2}[4]
We must not try to hide the truth in the corners of the earth. It must be made known, it must shine in our large cities. Christ in his labors took his position with his disciples, by the lakeside, and by the great thoroughfares of travel, where people were to be met from all parts of the world. He was giving the true light; he was sowing the gospel seed; he was rescuing truth from the companionship of error, and presenting it in clear, bright rays, so that men could comprehend it.{SpTA07 4.1}[5]
The heavenly messenger who was with us, said; “Never lose sight of the fact that the message you are bearing is a world-wide message. It is to be given to all cities, to all villages; it is to be proclaimed in the highways and the byways. You are not to localize your message.” In the parable of the sower, Christ presented an illustration of his own work and that of his servants. The seed fell upon all kinds of soil. That which was sown upon good ground brought forth fruit, some thirty, some sixty, and some even a hundredfold. But some seed fell upon poor soil, and yielded no fruit unto eternal life. Yet the sower did not therefore cease his work. You are to sow the seeds of truth in every place. Whenever you can gain access, hold forth the word of God. Sow beside all waters. You may not at once see the result of your labors, but be not discouraged because of this. Speak the words that Christ gives you, work in Christ’s lines, go forth everywhere as he has given you an example.{SpTA07 4.2}[6]
The world’s Redeemer had many hearers, but few followers. Noah preached one hundred and twenty years to the people before the flood, and yet there were few who appreciated this precious, probationary time. Save Noah and his family, not one was numbered with the believers and entered into the ark. Out of all the population of the earth, only eight souls received the message; but that message condemned the world. The light was given that they might believe; their rejection of the light proved their ruin. Our message to the world will be a savor of life unto life to all who accept it, and of condemnation to those who reject it.{SpTA07 5.1}[7]
The messenger turned to one present, and said, “You have altogether too limited ideas of the work for this time. You are laying plans so that you can the more easily embrace the whole work in your arms. Your light must not be confined to a small compass, put under a bushel, or under a bed, but on a candlestick, that it may give light to all that are in the house. The house is the world. You must take broader views of the work than you have taken.”{SpTA07 5.2}[8]
【Meeting Criticism】
Clothe yourselves with the whole armor of God, move steadily forward, and be not greatly influenced by criticism, reproach, or censure. Bear in mind that the messengers whom God sends must go without the camp and bear reproach for Christ’s sake. Whatever may come to you, remember that Christ has borne all this and more for you. Whatever course of action you may pursue, there will be some one to criticize and censure you. Move forward in the fear and love of God,strengthening yourselves by faith, having courage in the Lord, and being always cheerful. The truth is solemn, elevating, and ennobling in its influence. The message of warning given to the world is to call attention from earthly things to matters of eternal interest. The truth will ever sanctify the receiver; those who preach the truth must be sanctified through it. But when they make special efforts to accommodate themselves to the peculiar ideas and feelings of their hearers, in order to avoid criticism, they will weaken their own testimony, and fail of the object they wish to secure. They will do injustice to their mission, injustice to themselves, and also to those who criticize them. All who are working for the Master can and should improve in their methods of labor, but they can do this only as they shall study diligently the life of Christ, and practise his virtues. Do not permit murmuring and fault-finding to weaken your hands and dim your hopes. “Sanctify the Lord of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread.”{SpTA07 5.3}[9]
【Short Sermons; Bible Classes】
Present the truth to the people in its true importance and sacredness, and be careful not to give them too large a portion in one discourse. It will be lost upon them if you do. Lengthy speeches detract from the efficiency of your labors. To those who are ignorant of the truth, your teaching is new and strange, and they do not readily apprehend it. There is danger of pouring into their minds a mass of matter which they cannot possibly digest. “But the word of the Lord was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon?precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little.” We need to study His method of teaching. We have the most important and decided testimony for the world, and we must give the people short discourses, in plain and simple language. Do not think, because you have gone over a subject once, that you can pass right on to other points, and the hearers retain all that has been presented.{SpTA07 6.1}[10]
There is danger of passing too rapidly from point to point. Give short lessons, and often. Your work is not only to preach, but to minister. Personal effort for families and individuals should comprise a large share of your labors. After you have opened to the people the precious mines of truth, there is yet a great work to be done for those who have become interested in the subjects presented. After a short discourse, change the order of the exercises, and give opportunity for all who desire it, to remain for an after-interview, or Bible class, where they can ask questions upon subjects that trouble them. You will find great success in coming close to the people in these Bible lessons. The workers who labor in connection with the minister should make special efforts patiently and kindly to lead inquirers to an understanding of the truth. If you have not more than one to instruct, that one, thoroughly convinced, will communicate the light to others. These testing truths are of so great importance that they may be presented again and again, and impressed upon the minds of the hearers. The decisions men reach in regard to these things mean everything to them.{SpTA07 7.1}[11]
Every talent God has given to men is to be wisely employed, and through exercise it will become more and more efficient. Look to Jesus for his counsel, and learn of him the very best methods of interesting the people, and inculcating ideas that shall impress the mind. Exalt the Spirit and power of God, and pray much for his guidance.{SpTA07 7.2}[12]
【Reserve Vitality Necessary】
Never use up all your vitality in a discourse so long and wearisome that you have not a reserve of physical and mental power to meet inquiring minds, and patiently seek to remove their doubts, and to establish their faith. Make it manifest that we are handling weighty argument which you know cannot be controverted. Teach by precept and example that the truth is precious; that it brings light to your understanding and courage to your heart. Keep a cheerful countenance. You will do this if you present the truth in love. Ever bear in mind that eternal interests are at stake, and be prepared to engage in personal labor for those who desire help.{SpTA07 8.1}[13]
The people must have something besides theories; they must have the living bread from heaven. In plain, simple language, tell every soul what he must do to be saved. God is your helper; he calls upon you to make known the hidden, unsearchable riches of the grace of Christ. Preach not your fancies, but preach Christ. Let the light of his righteousness shine into your hearts, and be revealed in your teaching. Living faith in Christ must be the very warp and woof of every sermon, the very sum and substance of every discourse; it must be woven into every appeal and every prayer. Then you will reveal him in whom your hopes of eternal life are centered. You need to pray for divine enlightenment upon the Scriptures; for the word of God is Spirit and life,—the leaves of the tree of life for the healing of the nations. Search for hidden treasures in the Scriptures of truth. Precious knowledge that you have not, you will surely obtain.{SpTA07 8.2}[14]
【Use of the Vocal Organs】
Careful attention and training should be given to the vocal organs. They are strengthened by right use, but become enfeebled if used improperly. Their excessive use, as in preaching long sermons, will, if often repeated, not only injure the organs of speech, but will bring an undue strain upon the whole nervous system. The delicate harp of a thousand strings becomes worn, gets out of repair, and produces discord instead of melody.{SpTA07 9.1}[15]
It is important for every speaker so to train the vocal organs as to keep them in a healthful condition, that he may speak forth the words of life to the people. Every one should become intelligent as to the most effective manner of using his God-given ability, and should practise what he learns. It is not necessary to talk in a loud voice or upon a high key; this does great injury to the speaker. Rapid talking destroys much of the effect of a discourse; for the words cannot be made so plain and distinct as if spoken more deliberately, giving the hearer time to take in the meaning of every word. The human voice is a precious gift of God; it is a power for good, and the Lord wants his servants to preserve its pathos and melody. The voice should be cultivated so as?to promote its musical quality, that it may fall pleasantly upon the ear and impress the heart. But the vocal organs are strangely abused, greatly to the injury of the speaker, and the discomfort of the hearers.{SpTA07 9.2}[16]
The Lord requires the human agent not to move by impulse in speaking, but to move calmly, speak slowly, and let the Holy Spirit give efficiency to the truth. Never think that in working yourselves up to a passion of delivery, speaking by impulse, and suffering your feelings to raise your voice to an unnaturally high key, that you are giving evidence of the great power of God upon you. All who learn in Christ’s school, allowing God to work them, will cultivate the voice, so as to make the very best impression, and to honor the truth which they present to the people. The Lord demands an unreserved surrender of the body, soul, and spirit, that the divine power may work through all your energies and capabilities during the entire period of your service for him.{SpTA07 10.1}[17]
Your influence is to be far-reaching, and your powers of speech should be under the control of reason. When you strain the organs of speech, the modulations of the voice are lost. The tendency to rapid speaking should be decidedly overcome. God claims of the human instrumentality all the service that man can give. All the talents entrusted to the human agent are to be cherished and appreciated, and used as a precious endowment of heaven. The laborers in the harvest-field are God’s appointed agents, channels through which he can communicate light from heaven. The careless, improvident use of any of their God-given powers, lessens their efficiency, so that in an?emergency, when the greatest good might be done, they are so weak and sickly and crippled that they can accomplish but little.{SpTA07 10.2}[18]
【Favored Position of God’s Workers Today】
God’s workers today constitute the connecting link between the former workers, the church of history, and the church that is to be called out from the world and prepared to meet their Lord. The tide of spiritual life is to flow through the appointed channels, as in the history of the past. From age to age the light which God has for the world has been imparted to the church militant, and God is continuing to impart precious light. All who receive light are to diffuse it to those who sit in darkness. All the excellencies that have come through the belief of the truth from past ages to the present time, are to be treated with the utmost respect. Let not the truth entrusted to our keeping lose its force and power through our careless misuse of body or mind.{SpTA07 11.1}[19]
The present laborers should be stirred to make improvement as they see how former workers have weakened their powers, so that their services have been lost to the cause of God. Let the history and experience of those who have made mistakes be a warning to others. God desires his servants to live, not to die before their work is done. All should be constantly seeking to learn the best methods of working, and should be improving their physical, mental, and moral powers.{SpTA07 11.2}[20]
Many a time those who feel the importance of truth, and have a burning desire to hold forth the word of life, find themselves cut off from labor because of their lack of physical strength. Important?ends are to be attained, an extensive work is to be done, and if the human agents are to be used by the Holy Spirit to do that work with power, they must work intelligently, and keep themselves in the very best condition for success.{SpTA07 11.3}[21]
【Appropriate Expression of Truth】
Let the power and glow of the truth find expression in appropriate words. Express the joy and gratitude that well up from the heart as you see of the travail of your soul in the conversion of sinners. But in speaking to the people, remember to stop in season. Do not weary yourself so that you become nervous and debilitated, for the work you will need to do in addition to the preaching, requires tact and ability. It will be a potent agency for good, as pleasant incense rising to God.{SpTA07 12.1}[22]
The Lord requires every teacher to become acquainted with the individuals who listen to his discourses and become interested in the truth. Speak a word in season, and pray for those who are in need of help and light. This personal effort must not be neglected. Your own souls will be benefited by it, and those for whom you labor will be blessed. The nature of your religious experience will be determined by your increasing acquaintance with divine things. Habitual communion with God is positively essential that you may maintain the even tenor of your way. Growth in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ will give you increased power for good. You will have wisdom from above. You will not manifest your own spirit, and, by cheap words, mingle the common fire with the sacred. God has made provision that his workers should be living epistles, known and read of all men.{SpTA07 12.2}[23]
【Unity Among Laborers】
Now, as in Christ’s day, his servants will be tempted to strive for the supremacy. Beware of indulging this self-seeking spirit; for it will be a great hindrance to your spirituality. The Lord has not set Peter and John before you, and told you that they are your superiors, and you are to be like them. When Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of his disciples, he said, “Verily, I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.”{SpTA07 13.1}[24]
Jesus prayed for his disciples, “Father, keep them in thy name;” but you are required to act your part in faith, and co-operate with God. If any become careless and reckless, failing to keep themselves in the love of God under every circumstance, the wily foe will surely take possession of them. You may now suppose that your feet stand secure, that they will never be moved. You may ask with surprise, “What would make me change my faith? What would lessen my affection toward God and my brethren? I know in whom I believe. I shall never yield the truth.” But Satan is planning to take advantage of your cultivated and hereditary traits of character, and blind your eyes to your own necessities and defects, that he may sift you as wheat. Only through humble faith, through cherishing a constant sense of your own weakness, making earnest prayer to God, and watching unto prayer, can you walk securely.{SpTA07 13.2}[25]
【Attitude of Searchers for Truth】
Be guarded, and search the Scriptures with all reverence; for they contain wonderful truth. Through the truth you are to be renewed, reshaped in character, that you may bear the imprint of the divine. There is light, precious light, for all whose hearts are softened and subdued by the Spirit of God. They will receive joyfully the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness. Whatever God has written is for the instruction of all. That which he saw essential to inspire holy men to write, is for your edification. Only practise the words of truth, and you are safe; you will be God’s light-bearers to the world. Study the word of God, critically and prayerfully, that you may understand the great vital truths concerning the salvation of the soul. Self-confidence and self-assumption will never prove a saving power to you. In humility, diligently seeking the grace of God, dig deep, know what is truth, and that your foundation is sure. The truth must be kept before the people; and you need constantly to realize your dependence upon God.{SpTA07 14.1}[26]
Let not one man feel that his gift alone is sufficient for the work of God; that he alone can carry through a series of meetings, and give perfection to the work. His methods may be good, and yet varied gifts are essential; one man’s mind is not to mold and fashion the work according to his special ideas. In order for the work to be built up strong and symmetrical, there is need of varied gifts and different agencies, all under the Lord’s direction; he will instruct the workers according to their several ability. Co-operation and unity are essential to a harmonious whole, each laborer doing his God-given work, filling his appropriate position, and supplying the deficiency of another. One worker left to labor alone is in danger of thinking that his talent is sufficient to make a complete whole. Where there is a union of workers, there is opportunity for them to consult together, to pray together, to co-operate in labor. None should feel that they cannot link up with their brethren because they do not work in exactly the same line as they themselves do. Those who entertain such thoughts, show that they need the converting power of God upon their own hearts and characters, that their peculiarities may not become a hindrance to the work for the salvation of their fellow men.{SpTA07 14.2}[27]
【Blending of Talents Necessary】
Among the workers there will be some who are active and energetic; there will be some who are slow. They are so long in arriving at conclusions that if their way is followed, much precious time is lost, and often the delay proves dangerous. The slow worker should be constantly learning of the diligent, quick worker. “Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord.” Every one who enters the service of Christ should constantly feel that he is a laborer, and should improve in his habits and his manner of work. He is to blend with his brethren, not flattering himself?that his methods of work are the very best. Let him learn in the school of Christ the lessons of meekness and lowliness. All who do learn of Christ will work in Christ’s lines; then we shall surely harmonize. He who is inclined to criticize and depreciate his brethren, will find that the Spirit of God is not with him. He does not obey the injunction to esteem others better than himself; but, like the self-righteous Pharisee, he draws comparisons between his brother’s work and his own. Co-operating with God, every laborer will work as Christ worked.{SpTA07 15.1}[28]
You must be constantly learning, constantly advancing. No one can stand in our place and do our individual work. There is no such thing as making a groove for certain brethren to move in; no minister can embrace the work in his finite arms, and dictate how every other one shall labor. You must receive help through any channel by which God may send it. You who have had more experience must teach those of less experience how to work. Take them by your side, educate them, bear patiently with them. Never close the door of the heart by sharp words and unkind criticism. Let the love of God rule in your own hearts, and be communicated to your associate workers.{SpTA07 16.1}[29]
【A World-Wide Work】
... Time is short, and all who believe this message should feel that a solemn obligation rests upon them to be whole-hearted, disinterested workers, ever exerting an influence on the right side, and never, by word or action, arraying themselves against those who are seeking to build up?and advance the work. The ideas of our brethren are altogether too narrow; they expect but little; their faith is too feeble. Genuine faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things unseen. If the few who now believe the message will give no place to the enemy, and will unselfishly concentrate their efforts on the one object of building up the cause of God, the present truth will become a power in -----.{SpTA07 16.2}[30]
But your conceptions of the work need to be greatly enlarged. Our message is to go forth in power to all parts of the world, ... to all nations, tongues, and peoples. Many countries are waiting for the advanced light the Lord has for them, and your faith must grow, that you may meet the demands for this time. Go forward and upward; God will work in accordance with your faith and devotedness to the advancement of his cause. But if you exalt self, and do not walk in humility before him, he cannot entrust you with the endowment of his Holy Spirit; for it would exalt you to your ruin. You will meet with opposition and discouragement; but God will go before you if you walk humbly and prayerfully, constantly considering that Christ in his work will not fail nor be discouraged. Bear in mind that it is not faith to talk of impossibilities. Nothing is impossible with God.{SpTA07 17.1}[31]
【A Deciding Question】
The light concerning the binding claims of the law of God is to be presented everywhere. This is to be a deciding question. It will test and prove the world. Men will find many apparent reasons to excuse their resistance of light and evidence; they will venture to pursue a course of disobedience, thinking to avoid responsibility and reproach. Every teacher of the truth, every laborer together with God, will pass through searching, trying hours, when faith and patience will be severely tested. You are to be prepared by the grace of Christ to go forward, although apparent impossibilities obstruct the way. You have a present help in every time of emergency. The Lord allows you to meet obstacles, that you may seek unto Him who is your strength and sufficiency. Pray most earnestly for the wisdom that comes from God; he will open the way before you, and give you precious victories if you will walk humbly before him.{SpTA07 17.2}[32]
【Only God’s Plans to be Followed】
You are not to limit the Holy One of Israel, whose power is of old, and whose ways are past finding out. If you mark out ways whereby you expect God to work, you will be disappointed. The kingdom of heaven cometh not with observation. You are to leave God to work in his own way, and you must walk, not by sight, but by faith. God has a work to be done, and it is a very solemn, sacred work. It is not wise to follow plans of your own devising. Some who now bear the message of truth, will let the banner fall from their hands, and trail in the dust, and will then trample it under their feet. Some who are now in the darkness of error will receive the truth, and be converted, and will lift aloft the banner from the hands of those who now hold it. Your only hope is in firm reliance upon God. Watch unto prayer; move forward in hope, expressing gratitude, revealing the victory of faith in your?own soul, and others will be influenced to follow the leadings of God.{SpTA07 18.1}[33]
The light which God has given, he desires us to let shine to the world. It will be of no value unless it can be seen. I declare to you, You must stand on the mount; your vision must be extended, to see not only the things that are nigh, but those that are afar off. Satan will have plenty of difficulties to hinder our advancement. But when Israel came up to the Red Sea, God directed Moses to bid them go forward, and at the touch of the rod which God had given to Moses, the waters parted, and left a plain path for Israel to travel. So it will be in our work.{SpTA07 19.1}[34]
Read and carefully consider the third chapter of 2 Kings. You will have tests of faith similar to that presented in this chapter. All who will put their trust, not in what they themselves can do, but in what God can do for and through them, will certainly realize his power in their work. God will work in ways least expected. It is not your own strength that will turn the battle against the enemy, but the strength of the mighty General of armies, who works for his own name’s glory.{SpTA07 19.2}[35]
“Ye are my witnesses,” saith the Lord. Work while the day lasts, for the night cometh, in which no man can work.---Mrs. E. G. White---{SpTA07 19.3}[36]
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