MAGNITUDE OF THE WORK by A. Smith

Seventh-Day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Thursday, February 19, 1880.

FromThe Review and Herald, Vol. 55, No. 8

MAGNITUDE OF THE WORK.

By A. Smith

BY A. SMITH.

THE magnitude of the work that God has committed to believers in the third angel’s message at the present time, when measured by our moral and intellectual fitness to accomplish it, is appalling. Many of us have been slow to follow the leadings of the Divine mind in the direction of self-culture in the school of Christ. Doubtless nothing but the most energetic application, subject to the control of the Spirit of God, can now, in any measure, atone for the neglects of the past.

Thank God for the Sabbath-school, wherein the aged, as well as the child, may be thoroughly taught in the principles of “present truth.” There is a work for us to do in behalf of our fellow-men, commensurate with our ability in Christ to perform. The providence of God is continually providing ways and means whereby we may be made channels of light to the world.

If we feel competent to teach the truth, or to meet opponents, independent of our publications, we have reason to suspect that there is something sadly lacking in our outfit. How many of us have allowed books, pamphlets, tracts, and periodicals to lie upon our shelves for years, until dust has accumulated upon them as a witness against us before God, when they should have been wisely circulated, “until worn out,” according to the instruction of those in whom we repose confidence, as being qualified to direct in this work. Some of the wealthy may have well-filled libraries kept

under glass lest they should be soiled in using; while others may be poor, and unable to procure more than a meager supply of publications, and added to this discouragement, they may have a consciousness of unfitness and inability to engage in the work. But, even with limited facilities, a great amount of good may be accomplished. Let the possessor of a few books or pamphlets become a self-appointed librarian. On a slip of paper note the title and number of pages of each publication, lending them to different individuals, and exchanging them until all have been read.

Some may be specially gifted as readers; if consecrated, and subject to the leadings of the Holy Spirit, such might interest gatherings at the social hearth, or even in our places of public assembly. By wisely directed efforts, many who might not otherwise be reached, may be induced to purchase our publications for themselves. The books, pamphlets, and other publications issued by our presses, contain the most solemn message ever heralded to man; but if, through our neglect, they are unused, no one is warned by them. There is not a surfeit of our publications, but there is evidently an apathy or stagnation of energy on our part; and we fail to keep pace with the leading providence of God.

Some complain that they have but little talent, and know not how to use it. “Thou oughtest therefore,” said Christ, “to have put my money to the exchangers.” Some are called to lead out and direct in the work. It would be well to apply to such for advice. But, above all, earnestly inquire of Him the fear of whom is the beginning of wisdom.