Vol. V February, 1932 No. 2

CALLED TO BE FISHERS OF MEN AN EDITORIAL ALKING by the Sea of , Christ "saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And PAW said unto them, Come ye after Me, and I will make you to become fishers of men. And straightway they forsook their nets, and followed Him." :16-18. He calls these two fishermen in such a per- suasive way that they ask no questions; they do not even hesitate. Leaving their fishing tackle to their helpers, these sun-tanned, bare- footed fishermen pull their boat to the shore, and leave all to follow Him who called them. They ask not about their wage; they make no inquiry about the conditions of following; they seem indifferent to such matters as food, cloth- ing, and shelter; they require no outline of the work to be done; they exact no promise of reward for service: but, forsaking all earthly prospects, they are content to follow this Man. If Andrew had suggested that he continue the business, and support Peter and his family, while Peter followed Christ and gained what he could by this arrangement, it would have seemed more like what we often see today; but he did nothing of the kind. No hint is given that the brothers even went first to tell the home folks good-by. No; they both immediately "forsook their nets, and followed Him." Jesus requested service from Simon and Andrew, and on His part He made them a promise. If they followed Him, He would make them "fishers of men." Just how He proposed to do this is not stated. The first thing they had to do was to "follow" Him, and this they did at once; there was no delay. Their obedience was complete, full, whole-hearted. Now they were to be made fishers of men. Christ seemed in no hurry to fulfill this promise; for He knew that the disciples would learn by association and contact with Himself. He would be their instructor and teacher in all things that pertained to the service that He required of them. Christ understood men. John tells us that "Jesus did not commit Himself unto them, because He knew all men, and needed not that any should testify of man: for He knew what was in man." John 2:24, 25. Christ was the great Teacher because He possessed the first essential for any great teacher,—He understood those whom He taught. He who does not know men will never become a real teacher of men. Christ "knew (Continued on page 30) Page 2 The MINISTRY February MISPLACED emphasis is always re- grettable. In a movement that is called into being to prepare a people to meet God, direct and immediate soul winning must have first place.

A Medium of Communication THE intrinsic character of the Between the Members of the preacher is more essential than the Ministerial Association of Seventh-day Adventists brilliance of his utterances. Faith in his sincerity and honesty, and confi- EDITED BY dence in his spiritual and moral in- IRWIN H. EVANS AND LEROY E. FROOM tegrity, are his greatest asset in the SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS desk or in any other capacity. THE GENERAL CONFERENCE OFFICERS WE are not simply a denomination. We constitute a movement—called, Single Subscription: $1 a Year commissioned, and accountable for Published and Printed monthly for the Asso- that divine charge. Ours is the most ciation by the Review and Herald Publishing solemn and comprehensive task ever Association, Takoma Park, Washington, D. C., U. S. A. Entered as second-class matter, Dee. 19, committed to mortal man; we should 1927, at the post office at Washington, D. C., live and move under this sublime con- under the Act of Congress of March 3, 1879. ception. HUMOR is the safety valve of the hu- man engine. It is wise for the Chris- Xrentbant rutbS tian worker to recognize and appropri- ately use—but never to abuse—this wholesome gift in his daily life. Many THE ministry is not merely one of a tense situation can be relieved by the professions; it is a holy calling. it, and often frayed nerves can be LET no one claim the title of a saved from snapping by looking at the herald of truth who juggles facts. humorous side of a situation.

THE wise advocate of a cause avoids THE "depression" is an arresting invective. He lets the facts speak for call, not a compensationless calamity; themselves. an opportunity, not a setback. If we will only rightly relate ourselves THE personality of the messenger thereto, it will check wrong trends and should never obscure the pre-eminence impel needed changes. Unwise de- of his message. pendence upon home bases and unjusti- ERROR is never really dangerous fiable expenditures are now being when truth is left free to combat it. faced and adjusted to the betterment It is the latter factor that is most im- of all. portant. "SeEciAr.. music" in divine service As a group we are spending less and should be an unmistakable phase of less time in either individual or collec- worship, and not a display of personal tive study. This is retrogression, not talent. The hour has manifestly come progression. to frown upon these perversions that are all too common. Better far to have THE threefold message of Revelation simpler music to the glory of God than 14 is not a mere doctrinal statement. elaborate vocal gymnastics to the glory It is the working program of God's of man. The ways of Babylon are not final movement on earth. to be our ways. 1932 The MINISTRY Page 3 ezzage5 ,front e ur Keaberti Heart-to-Heart Talks on Vital Issues

Youthful Recruits Must Augment Our Ministry BY C. H. WATSON IS chosen young men are gone down to the slaughter." Jer. 48:15. These H words were used in the long ago to indicate the utter hopelessness of the situation of Moab. Other calamities had befallen that people, but this is men- tioned as the thing in which the greatness of her misfortunes climaxed. It may be that the experience is but one of those things which were written aforetime for our learning, upon whom the ends of the world are come. Our own young men constitute an important part of our denominational power. To them we must look for all that represents future strength in soul-winning ministry. In recent times we have suffered the men, and for extending the kingdom ravages of flood and fire, tempest and of God in the earth, is the Holy Spirit earthquake, war, famine and pesti- controlling the energies and hearts of lence, and commercial depression. true, devoted, consecrated, surrendered These things we are unable to control. men and women. We have been compelled to meet them And is it not true that by the intelli- without the possibility of escaping gent and consecrated youth of the min- their destructiveness. We have en- istry the Holy Spirit has chiefly dured them, and will still endure them. wrought the fabric of the church, and But the loss of our young men from ac- obtained the growth of the kingdom? tive, aggressive ministry, we as an And equally true is it that in no pre- evangelistic people cannot possibly sur- vious hour of time has it been so im- vive. Without them, any plans we portant that the Holy Spirit be per- may make for such progressive min- mitted to operate through vigorous, istry as the times and the hour de- consecrated youth in the ministry as it mand will utterly fail. is just now. With every evidence before I'S that Multitudes are awakened by the the world is hastening to its end, and peril and ruin of this hour to inquire, the coming of our Lord is right at "What do these things mean?" It is hand, how can the claims which we the hour for which this denomination make denominationally be justified in long has prayed—an hour of unex- the sight of judgment-bound men, if celled opportunity to preach the truth we do not continually bring into our to eager hearers. Surely God will not ministry the vigor, the enterprise, the give us over to such stupid lethargy vision, and the hope of youth—espe- and to such blindness of heart as shall cially at such an hour as this? leave us insensible to the greatness of It never has been the purpose of God this hour and to the importance of that the growth of His kingdom should meeting its unusual opportunities ag- be dependent mainly upon the effi- gressively. ciency of church machinery. Organ- Whatever is permitted to occur, the ization of the forces of the church is ministry of this movement should be necessary, and should be efficient. But kept strong and aggressive. If, through the power for winning the souls of (Continued on page 29) Page 4 The MINISTRY February fortuarb anb tiptuarb Inspiration, Counsel, and Caution

For strength and wisdom now to Thee I Thy Sheep cry, Oh, help me lest some precious ones may TRY sheep, dear Lord, Thy heedless, wan- die ! dering sheep! Support me with Thy rod and staff divine. Daily I plead, daily I work and weep. They wander far, the hungry wolves lurk Thy sheep ! The darkness lowers—night near; draws on. Darkness is coming, darkness cold and In love I call, the wanderers do not come. drear ; Must I take those who follow to the fold. I call each one by name, they do not hear ; And others leave to perish in the cold? Lord, help that I my sacred watch may keep. 0 precious sheep ! why, why so strangely bold? How dear to me these precious sheep of Lord, show me how to lead them safely Thine— home. Thy sheep to lead and love—Thy sheep and MAROARBT W. LOCKE. mine. Thine undershepherd only, Lord, am I ; Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.

Promised Power BY E. K. BLADE T AM convinced that our greater success in the ministry is dependent upon I our learning to rely upon the promised power disclosed in these words: "Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts." Zech. 4:6. Every minister knows and believes this text. We all know in theory the truth of what the Saviour said, "Without Me ye can do nothing." Manifestly our need is to kno. ur how to be fully surrendered to Him, and be made fully available for His use. This knowledge must come through much earnest prayer and whole-hearted surrender. It is not our talent and ability, our pleasing personality, or our methods that, we are to bring to Him; but we must bring ourselves. The Lord is not to use our equipment and our methods, but us. It is we that need to be surrendered to Him in order to be instruments used by this promised power. "It is not great and learned men is to be brought to a low level. God that the ministry needs; it is not elo- calls for men who will give them- quent sermonizers. God calls for men selves to Him. They are to become who will give themselves to Him to His men, His instrumentalities. Such be imbued with His Spirit."—"Testi- men will implicitly trust Him and rely monies," Vol. VI, pp. 411, 412. upon His power. This does not mean We all find it difficult to realize that that we are never to have plans or while God, in the working out of His make any effort to improve our talents great plan of redemption, depends and increase our ability; but it is upon men, He never depends upon certain that we are to become His, and their human acquirements. It is hard the power by which we succeed in our to grasp the simplicity of it. We must ministry must be His. remember, however, that though we We are constantly subjected to the are to be childlike in trust, and faith, temptation to appeal to the human we are not to conclude that our work heart, and to respond to the call of 1932 The MIN ISTRY Page 5 our human nature for that which of the Holy Spirit. These words are pleases and entertains and satisfies significant on this point: the human. We seek to get the ears "There is no limit to the usefulness of men and to awaken their interest of one who, putting self aside, makes by resorting to ways and methods room for the working of the Holy with which the Holy Spirit will not Spirit upon His heart, and lives a life be associated, and unwittingly our wholly consecrated to God."—"Testi- faith is more in what we are doing monies," Vol. VIII, p. 19. and the way we are doing it than in While we must never ignore the im- this promised power. portance of education and the value of J. E. Conant, dealing with this fea- all that pertains to a proper prepara- ture of the ministry, has these sig- tion, yet the one constant and out- nificant words to say: standing need of our ministry today, "We play up the things that are an and that upon which our efficiency de- appeal to the natural man. We bait pends more than anything else, is a the lost with fine music, beautiful lull and complete surrender to God. architecture, splendid sociability, sen- We are accustomed to think and speak sational topics, racy discussions of of it as a simple thing; in reality it current events, and even moving pic- is one of the most stupendous facts tures; and the result is that when they of human experience. With such sur- do come, they take one sniff at our bait render there will be no selfishness left and say, 'Cheap!' and then go straight in the life to hinder, no human ways back to the world, where they can get what they call the 'real thing.' and plans to interfere with and pre- "Even when a great evangelistic ef- vent the working of the Holy Spirit. fort is being made, most of the Lord's That all-sufficiency of which we are people resort to an appeal to the assured will be provided when we as natural man to get the lost to the ministers learn how to be whole- meeting, by emphasizing the crowds, hearted in our surrender, in our trust. the great singing, the spectacular The provision that God has made for preaching, and other natural attrac- us in the ministry is again mentioned tions; and many an evangelist helps it in these words: along by his antics in the pulpit." "God has provided divine assistance Is it not true that we often do the for all the emergencies to which our very things revealed in the foregoing human resources are unequal. He paragraphs? It is the human appeal. gives the Holy Spirit to help in every Reliance upon these things pleases and strait, to strengthen our hope and as- satisfies human nature. But God dr"es surance, to illuminate our minds and not provide power to work in such purify our hearts. He means that sufficient facilities shall be provided ways. He wants men whom He can for the working out of His plans."— use; He wants a message, methods, "Testimonies," Vol. VI, p. 415. and music in all our public efforts that He can use, not to appeal to hu- "God is able and willing to bestow man tastes and perverted natures, but upon His servants all the strength they need. He will more than fulfill by the power of the Holy Spirit to the highest expectations of those who awaken in the hearts of men a desire put their trust in Vol. for Him and His salvation. VIII, p. 11. And He has promised limitless South Lancaster, Mass. power to the man who knows how to put aside self and selfish methods and plans. Power is promised to the man BRILLIANCY never atones for defi- who will make room for the working cient spirituality. Page 6 The MINISTRY February Good Counsel as to Unfulfilled the smaller objects and particulars of Details the way, he does not see till he ad- vances with the light. BY W. A. SPICER "Prophetic fulfillment is plain and sure. Of the past we have only to MANY of us, no doubt, who are con- compare prophecy with history, and IVI tinually looking at the prophetic when the application is correct, proph- pictures of future events, trying to ecy will exactly fit history, like the see more clearly every line of the glove to the hand, being made for it. picture drawn by the inspired pen, Present fulfillment, in connection with often find a detail obscure, when the the past, is also plain. Prophecy will answer in all particulars to existing essential outline stands out plain and facts. And prophetic fulfillment, past clear and positive. And the great les- and present, in connection, will con- sons that it is essential to preach are stitute a brilliant and glorious light, in these things that are clearly and by which the people of God may know strongly etched in the prophetic pic- their present position and duty. ture. As to surety in the great essen- "Of future fulfillment we cannot tials, and caution as to conceiving speak as positively, especially to enter every minor detail of unfulfilled proph- into all the particulars. Yet the light of prophecy shines ahead, and stretch- ecy, James White wrote some sugges- ing along in the future may be dis- tive paragraphs in the Review of April tinctly seen the close of Christ's priest- 3, 1855. Commenting on 2 Peter 1:16- hood, the seven last plagues, the per- 19,—the sure word of prophecy as the sonal second advent of Christ, the first light shining in a dark place, until resurrection, the second resurrection the day dawn,—he said: at the close of the seventh millennium, "It is certain that the prophecies the destruction of all the enemies of God, and the kingdom and the domin- were written for our learning and ion under the whole heavens given to benefit in the mortal state, before the the saints of the Most High. These day shall dawn. Till that time we do great events may be seen in their well to take heed to them. Now if the order. But the particulars of future prophecies relating to the second ad- fulfillment of prophecy may not be so vent, its manner and object, are not to clearly seen." be understood till they are fulfilled, then they were designed for the bene- These were wise counsels in the fit of immortal saints in the kingdom early times, and even at this late day of God. But as they were given for in fulfilling prophecies we may well a light to shine in a dark place [this ponder the words. mortal state, instead of the kingdom], to which we are to take heed till the Washington, D. C. day dawns, they were given for our learning, and must be understood be- fore they are fulfilled, or they benefit IT is no one. tremendously significant, and "By this testimony of the apostle we stimulative to faith, to read of multi- may also learn that the prophecies are plied secular confirmations of the his- a light shining in a. dark place. Notice toric facts recorded in the word,—the the figure. One goes out into the precise path traversed by Israel, the street in a dark night with a light, historicity of Belshazzar and of Jesus, which shines around him. It enables purely on the basis of secular evidence. him to advance step by step with The lips of the scoffer are being si- safety. All the while his present posi- lenced. The is being vindicated tion is plain. Ahead the light is fainter, still he sees enough to know even by its enemies. He who repudi- his course is right. He recognizes ates the evidence does so wilfully and large objects in the distance, but all irrationally. 1932 The MINISTRY Page 7

Cast Not Away Therefore Your Confidence "present situation in the religious world presents the most unparalleled Tneed, and opportunity, and challenge in the history of the Christian church. Many periods of gross darkness and ignorance, of superstition and apostasy, have marked the centuries; but never has there been such conspicuous in- tellectual advancement strangely combined with deadly and well-nigh universal drift away from God. As never in the past, man by wisdom knows not God. Through material, scientific, and philosophical advancement, the race is swiftly becoming too wise in its own conceit to believe those verities that have consti- tuted the foundation of the everlasting gospel of God to man, and which have, to a large degree, been accepted by professed Christians throughout the past. This anomalous situation constitutes mankind generally have abandoned the unparalleled tragedy of the ages. their faith in the Bible as a divinely The greatest spiritual light of all times inspired and authoritative revelation is being shrouded by a moral and to men. It has become to them but a spiritual darkness that threatens to book of lofty moral maxims. Such eclipse its effulgent rays. It is time are the first fruits of the evolutionary for every worker in this movement philosophy. to stop and study this amazing situa- This has been logically accompanied tion, and to decide as to his individual by the departure from among men of relations and obligations in the light recognition of the binding obligations of the patent facts we here submit. of God's moral law, and man's amena- This is outstandingly the hour of bility thereto. That is the fundamen- crumbling faith and collapsing confi- tal reason that the predicted careless- dence in the formerly accepted sure- ness of the last days is rampant, and ties of the Christian faith. All about that its perils increase on every hand. us, uncertainty is the dominant char- The fear of God is departing from men, acteristic of the times. The fear of and the moral fiber of professedly the living God who created the heav- Christian nations is disintegrating as ens and the earth is surely and stead- an inevitable consequence. This we ily departing from men. Through must proclaim to the world. science falsely so called, they have Moreover, having accepted these been led to question, and to cast aside, premises,—no Creator, no authorita- the underlying fact of creation by an tive revelation, no divine moral law, omnipotent and omniscient Creator. no human accountability,—it is log- The generally accepted theory of evo- ically absurd to believe longer in the lution has done its sinister work, binding obligation of a memorial Sab- practically reconstructing the thinking bath; for it stands as the direct an- and beliefs of the civilized world. tithesis to all these disbelief s. Hence, Then, since the word proclaims the the idea of an actual Sabbath is stead- fact and reign of such a God, and of ily vanishing from among men. But such a creation as the explanation of the Sabbath of the Bible is based on our existence, thus involving the exer- the recognition of a personal Creator. cise of His miraculous creative powers, It epitomizes the very principle of all Page 8 The MINISTRY February loyalty to God, and constitutes the seal faith are not confined to the great of His sovereign law. So it stands as heedless world. The warnings of Holy unique in the midst of a world relaps- Writ are not all to be applied to nom- ing into treason toward Him. And, inal Christian bodies. "Some shall de- when the issue is understood, it be- part from the faith" (1 Tim. 4:1), comes the tangible test of man's alle- includes some of our own members and giance to God. ministry. The "perilous times" (2 These two concepts—the world's and Tim. 3:1) are not restricted in influ- ours—are mutually antagonistic and ence to those unaffiliated with this exclusive. Once either group of prem- movement. The impatient cry of the ises is believed and accepted, the con- scoffer, "Where is the promise of His clusions to be drawn therefrom are coming?" (2 Peter 3:4) is not limited unavoidable. And each passing year to the out-and-out rejector of the ad- of recent decades has deepened the vent. gulf between them. It has tremen- There is an insidious influence oper- dously increased the meaning of this ating partly from without and partly movement, separating it farther and from within to bring a note of un- farther from both the secular and the certainty into the lives and message religious world about us. of our workers. It is the scheme of These trends of the day have given the evil one that a relentless pressure to this movement in general, and to shall be exerted upon men to cast away the Sabbath truth in particular, a their confidence in these last hours. significance that could not possibly Some have already done so, and others have obtained in the early days of this are, consciously or unconsciously, do- message. God foresaw it all, and ade- ing it in varying degrees. quately prepared for it all. This situa- We must face the issue squarely. Is tion throws a wealth of meaning into this movement a mistake? Was it that luminous expression in "Early based upon false premises? Is it with- Writings" that just before the time of out divine credentials, and so devoid trouble the heralds of this message of a divine commission? Is there rea- "went forth and proclaimed the Sab- son to question the nearness of our bath more fully."—Pages 83, 85. What Lord's return, the closing ministry of heights and depths and lengths are our Lord Jesus Christ in the heavenly here implied! The changed world at- sanctuary, the Sabbath truth, and the titude is already giving it a signifi- other rugged foundation stones upon cance before impossible. The advo- which this special gospel message was cates of the Bible Sabbath therefore built? With all the earnestness of our assume a new role in the earth that being, we respond to each question, will make them increasingly the object Nay! Never have the massed evi- of derision in the midst of a world dences been so numerous and convinc- gone apostate. And this contrast will ing as today. Where there was one deepen as apostasy becomes more pro- witness fifty years ago, there are a nounced. hundred confirmations today. In the remnant church itself, be- There is nothing more pathetic than cause of tribulation and deepened spir- to see one who has devoted years of itual experience in preparation to meet his life and service to the proclamation God, it becomes a sign of rest from sin of this message falter, become bewil- through the same creative power that dered by the confusing voices and va- established the world and its appointed garies about, lose his bearings, and memorial. then drift out from us either in spirit But, alas! the departures from the (Concluded on page 29) 1932 The MINISTRY Page 9 30omitetit f)ets The Principles and Practice of Preaching

What Is Coming? II. A New Government Is Coming It will fill the world. BY W. D. YB.ezE:g There will be no war, no strife of any Object kind. 1. To establish faith in the Bible as a There will be no poverty, no perplexities, divine revelation of the future. no distress. 2. To awaken the mind to a sense of the There will be no weariness, no sickness, nearness of the end. no death. 3. To inspire hope in Christ as the Sav- This world will be filled with happy iour from the sin and confusion of homes, unmarred by selfishness. this world, and as the coming King Agriculture, building, education, music, who will usher in the reign of peace. literature, travel—these are a few of the pursuits which will engage the time I. A View of the World Situation of the citizens. Companionship of true friends will bring J. A quick survey the highest pleasure. a. Japan and China at swords' points This government will continue forever. in Manchuria. b. Central China flooded. I am not speakjng of a vague existence c. India's seething millions ready for in a spirit world somewhere in space. I revolt. am describing conditions on this planet d. Atheistic Russia, with the largest as they will be in the near future. standing army in the world, pre- Best of all, there is clear evidence pares for struggle. which makes all this absolutely sure. e. Financial crisis in Germany, Eng- land, and other countries. III. How Can It Be Proved? f. 20,000,000 men under arms in Eu- rope (7,000,000 more than in 1914). 1. Since this new world lies in the future, g. The United States, with the rest of positive assurance concerning it can the world, suffers from great finan- come-only from One who knows the cial depression ; .7,000,000 unem- future. ployed in America, 20,000,000 in all 2. Men cannot tell what will be. the world. 3. The Bible claims to be a divine reve- 2. Statements from world leaders lation, foretelling the future. But it a. Sir George Paish, noted economist, does not ask us to believe without evi- says: dence. It offers proof. "The existing situation is with- 4. What is the best kind of evidence?— out precedent. The crisis is no or- Demonstration. (Illustration : A man dinary depression that twill right can best prove his claim to be a car- Itself as former crises righted them- penter by building a house. If we selves. It is a great catastrophe. watch him build twenty houses, we . . . The distress in many nations know he can build another.) The has already led to revolutions. The greatest proof of any assertion is dem- distress of all nations, which is rap- onstration. idly growing, threatens to bring uni- 5. So, the Bible offers to prove that it versal revolution."—Quoted in the can foretell the future' by doing it. signs of the Times, Oct. 13, 1931. Read Isa. 46 : 9, 10 ; John 14 : 29. Let us examine one of these lines of proph- b. Sir Philip Gibbs, one of the world's best known journalists, says : ecy. "Scientists of to&v. the wisest IV. Demonstration in Daniel 2 of, them, are filled with grave anx- ieties about the near future, and 1. Relate story (Dan. 2: 1-30). prophesy dark things. They are 2. Dream (Dan. 2: 31-35). afraid of the powers they are put- 3. Interpretation (Dan. 2 :'36-43). ting into the hands of men. They a. Four great kingdoms will rule the have no great faith in man's intelli- world successively. gence or moral code. When they b. The fourth will be' divided, the re- stare starkly ahead, many of them sulting nations continuing, some see a fiercer struggle for existence strong, some weak. than has yet happened."—"The Day c. Although attempts will be made to After Tomorrow," pp. 172, 173. unite them, notably by intermar- 3. Conclusion riage, "they shall not cleave." The world today is certain only of 4. Fulfillment uncertainty. A restless fear fills the a. Babylon, Persia, Greece, Rome. hearts of men. A nervous expectancy b. Rome divided by the Teutonic tribes is everywhere manifest. "What is forming the nations which now rule coming?" Western nurope'.. Page 10 The MIN ISTRY February

a. Attempts to weld Europe together 3. What will it mean? have failed. No more war—a kingdom of peace. (1) By force of arms and diplomacy, No more sickness—a land of health. (a) Charlemagne. No more tears—a world of happiness. (b) Charles V. But to me it means more than all this : (a) Napoleon. My Friend is coming. (2) By intermarriage of the royal He is the King who is to usher in houses. the reign of peace. In 1914 the rulers of Eng- He loves me and thinks of me in- land, Germany, Russia, Norway, dividually, and He is preparing a spe- Denmark; and Greece were cial place for me in that ideal world. closely related. But this did He loves each of you in this same not prevent the World War. special way. There is a place in His "They shall not cleave." heart that only you can fill. This brings us to the present We can never fully understand it ; hour. but His love led Him to give His life on the cross, that we might not have V. Conclusion and Appeal to suffer for our sins, but instead could 1. Has the prophecy been fulfilled? Yes, live with Him forever in that happy in every detail. world. In this line of prophecy the Bible Do you know Him? proves its ability to foretell the future To know Him as Saviour and Friend by doing it. means hope and joy now in this time 2. With great interest, then, in this hour of perplexity, and it will mean every- of world uncertainty, we inquire, thing when He comes. "What will be the next act?" 4. Announce Read verse 44 : "In the days of these Tonight we have seen that the next kings shall the God of heaven set up a great act is the coming of Christ to kingdom, which shall never be de- set up His kingdom. In our next stroyed." meeting we will study that glorious Ogden, Utah. event.

Christ's Commission to His Disciples BY H. CAMDEN LACEY PRELUDE I. The Lord's Compassion for the Multitudes. Matt. 9 : 36 II. His Vision of the Harvest. Matt. 9: 37 III. The Resultant Command : "Pray." Matt. 11 : 38 PRECEPTS I. The First Sphere of Evangelism : Only Until the Cross. Matt. 10 : 1-15 1. The First Missionaries. Matt. 10 : 1-4 2. The Command to "Go" and "Preach." Matt. 10: 5-7 3. The Special Method of Labor. a. Work miracles. Matt. 10 : 8 b. Provide nothing for temporal needs. Matt. 10 : 9, 10 c. Take hospitality from others. Matt. 10 :11 d. Salute the worthy. Matt. 10 : 12, 13 e. Shake off dust of feet against the unworthy, Matt. 10 : 14 f. The resultant judgment. Matt. 10: 15 The Second Sphere of Evangelism: All Palestine until the De- struction of . Matt. 10 : 16-23 1. The Special Danger. Matt. 10 : 16a 2. The Needful Qualifications. Matt. 10 : 16b 3. The Particular Warnings. Matt 10: 17-23 a. Beware of men. b. Trust the Spirit. c. Flee from persecution. 4. The End of That Age. Matt. 10 : 23b III. The Third Sphere, of Evangeiism: Every Nation on Earth Until the End of the World. Matt. 10 : 24-42 1. Like Him—in being misunderstood. Matt. 10: 24, 25 2. Like Him—in public ministry. Matt. 10 : 26-33 a. Preach the truth. a. Trust the Father. b. Fear no man. d. Look to the reward. 3. Like Him—in private suffering. Matt. 10 : 34-39 a. The chief foes. b. Bearing the cross. 4. Like Him—in ultimate reward. Matt. 10 : 40-42 a. Receiving Him receives the Father. Matt. 10 : 40 h. The simplest kindness will be requited. Matt. 10 : 41. 42 New York City. 1932 The MINISTRY Page 11 Int Setter Tilliorkman Improvement in Method and Technique

Personal Work in Connection With Evangelism BY JOSEPH CAPMAN OME one has said, "The best way is just as good as any." This is only a S backhanded way of stating an obvious truth. As preachers and evangelists we all desire to employ the best methods in soul winning. And since the methods used by Christ, the master soul winner, must be the best methods, we shall do well to study His life with that thought in mind. We find, among other things, that Jesus was a successful evangelist. He was able to gather large audiences. Multitudes thronged out of the cities and towns, even into desert places, and went without food for days, to hear Him preach and teach the "things pertaining to the kingdom of God." In connection with His public ef- was a member of a race despised by forts we find that Jesus was also a the Jews, and the first work of Jesus personal worker—He worked for in- was to make her understand that He dividuals. Take the case of Nico- had no antagonism against her because demus, a. man of influence and repute she was a Samaritan. How patiently in Jerusalem, who came to Jesus at He listened to all she had to say! night. Nicodemus came hoping to ob- How tactfully He led her away from tain from Jesus definite information the trivial and the controversial! How concerning His purposes and plans; courteously yet clearly He brought her but Jesus talked to Nicodernus about to recognize her need of a Saviour! the great truth of the new birth, and That her conversion was genuine is called his attention to the fact that proved by its effect; her first thought the lifting up of the brazen serpent in was to bring others to Jesus, and the wilderness was a symbol of the through her efforts "a whole cityful crucifixion of the Son of God. To were brought to hear the Saviour." Nicodemus also was spoken the won- Zacchmus, "the chief among the derful word: "God so loved the world, publicans," or taxgatherers, would no that He gave His only begotten Son, doubt have been thought a poor "pros- that whosoever believeth on Him pect" by the disciples, who shared the should not perish, but have everlasting common prejudice against this hated life." We are told that as a result of class. But Zacchwus had heard the this interview, Nicodemus studied call to repentance sounded by John, the Scriptures more attentively, and and his heart was tender and recep- at the time of the cross he "saw in tive. He was interested in the Galilean Jesus the world's Redeemer." Later, Teacher, and in the reports of His when the little band of believers suf- kindness and courtesy; and when he fered bitter persecution, he took his learned that Jesus was about to enter stand boldly for the Lord Jesus, and Jericho, he cast aside his dignity, and became one of His ardent followers. climbed a tree in order to see Him. The Samaritan woman was won to "Suddenly, just beneath the fig tree, a accept Christ through His patient, per- group halts, the company before and sonal effort. He was weary, and had behind come to a standstill, and One sat down by the well side to rest. She looks upward whose glance seems to Page 12 The MINISTRY February read the soul. Almost doubting his lieve and why they believe it, and usu- senses, the man in the tree hears the ally they remain faithful. words, `Zacchwus, make haste, and Last winter I held evangelistic meet- come down; for today I must abide at ings in a hall in Portland, Maine. We thy house.' " Jesus took time to have had a good hearing, secured many ad- a personal interview with this member dresses, and visited the people in their of a detested class; nor was He de- homes. Where we were successful in terred from His purpose by the fact doing personal work in the homes of that "they all murmured," or by the the people, we had lasting results. Al- spoken sneer that followed Him, "He most without exception those to whom is gone in to lodge with a man that is we gave a series of Bible studies ac- a sinner." Zacchmus received Christ cepted the message, and were baptized joyfully; he repented of his sins, prom- and joined the church. ised to make restitution to those whom The following statements found in he had wronged, and remained a faith- Volume IX, page 124, of the "Testimo- ful follower of the Lord Jesus. And nies," emphasize the value of the "best it was to Zacchwus that the wonder- way" to use in soul winning: ful assurance was given: "The Son of "Ministers, preach the truths that man is come to seek and to save that will lead to personal labor for those which was lost." who are out of Christ. Encourage per- was standing in a sonal effort in every possible way. Re- certain place, with two of his disciples, member that a minister's work does brothers. One theme was in the heart not consist merely in preaching. He is to visit families in their homes, to of John in those days,—"The Lamb pray with them, and to open to them of God, which taketh away the sin of the Scriptures. He who does faithful the world." No doubt he had been work outside of the pulpit, will ac- speaking about Him to these young complish tenfold more than he who men when, looking up, John saw Je- confines his labors to the desk. Let sus, and exclaimed, "Behold the Lamb our ministers . . . make Jesus their of God!" Jesus walked on, and the pattern, diligently studying His life brothers quickly started out to over- and bringing into the daily practice the principles that actuated Him in take Him. How simple is the record, His service while upon the earth." yet how much the few words contain! "Jesus turned and saw them follow- "The best way is just as good as ing." He inquired, "What seek ye?" any." Christ's way is the best way. They asked where He lived; and He Let us not neglect personal work in invited them to "come and see." And our evangelism. It brings lasting re- they "abode with Him that day,"—a sults. day filled with study of the Scriptures Portland, Maine. and the great truths for that hour. As a result of that day of study and RULES and regulations are indis- prayer, the two men gave their hearts pensable in the conduct of our work. to Jesus, and ever after remained His But let us beware lest our regulations true followers. become our masters instead of remain- These experiences in the life of the ing our servants. In the application Master Teacher show clearly that per- of a precept or a principle, common sonal work in connection with public sense and the dictates of humanity and evangelism is the "best way," the most Christianity must have their place, successful method, in soul winning. else we shall be blindly subservient to Men and women who are thus brought that which was created only to be a into this message know what they be- help. 1932 The MINISTRY Page 13 Holding the Interest BY R. ALLAN ANDERSON WO great questions press upon us: First, How shall we reach the masses in Tthe large cities? and second, How can we impress them with our message? The second question grows out of the first and becomes the greater; for our work essentially is to win souls, not merely to warn them. To accomplish this soul-saving work, God has chosen "the foolishness of preaching." What- ever help other activities may be in extending the knowledge of a saving Christ, the special messenger for God is the preacher. But to reach the masses in the large cities of this age, and bring them to Christ in preparation for His return, will require a special study of both the message itself and the methods best suited to its powerful proclamation. "In the cities of today, where there "Those who will study the manner is so much to attract and please, the of Christ's teaching, and educate them- people can be interested by no ordi- selves to follow His way, will attract nary efforts. Ministers of God's ap- and hold large numbers now, as pointment will find it necessary to put Christ held the people in His day." forth extraordinary efforts in order to It is some years since that statement arrest the attention of the multitudes. arrested me, and perhaps nothing has . . . They must bear messages of a character so out of the usual order influenced me more than these few that people will be aroused and words. It seemed as if the Lord spoke warned. They must make use of them to me personally, and I could every means that can possibly be de- not get away from His message. I vised for causing the truth to stand had been associated with evangelistic out clearly and distinctly."—"Testi- efforts in theaters, tents, and halls, monies," Val. IX, p. 109. all of which seemed to expect and This is a distinct call to a more plan for the time when the interest effectual proclamation of the message. would fall away; when through sheer But having gathered and impressed apathy to the truth the audience the congregation, how can we hold would dwindle down till "the few hon- them sufficiently long to bring them est in heart" (as we called them) into the full message? This is of the would be left. The inference was, of greatest importance, for the real test course, that all those who dropped of evangelism is not how many listen, away were not honest in heart. This but rather how many have continued was the usual order, and nobody ques- to listen. It is not the getting of an tioned it. When it came, we naturally audience that counts so much as the looked for another place to work. holding of the audience. People are On this point it may not be out of usually born with enough curiosity to place to suggest that it is not always want to know something of the mes- possible for us to know who are the sage of any teacher, false or true. But "honest in heart." There were seven the real test comes, when, having thousand more in Elijah's day than awakened the desire to come once, we he reckoned on; and I am confident can hold those who come, and ulti- that in this matter of the Elijah mes- mately bring them into the fullness of sage for today there is many another the light of truth. If they do not con- seven thousand that we know nothing tinue to come, whose fault is it? In about. answer let me quote again from the Faced as I was with such a state- counsel in the "Testimonies," Volume ment from the Spirit of prophecy, I VI, page 57: had to admit that this way of working Page 14 The MI NISTRY February was not Christ's way; for His interest In this new study, the message itself continued to grow, some, of course, became dearer and more real. I say falling away, but many more taking it to the glory of God, that ever since their places. That the Lord used bet- then I have never experienced that ter methods was certain. Then I distressing realization that "the inter- cried to God earnestly, asking Him to est has died down." Why should it? teach me better methods—to show me The Lord is "the same yesterday, to- "His way." What could His methods day, and forever." I have worked in be? He had neither money nor pres- many places since then, and always tige, but He held the people. He took with the same result,—having the the broken timbers of a shipwrecked largest attendance at the last meeting. world, and with His own hands built By the Lord's help I try not to a bridge between earth and heaven. look upon the people as dishonest in How I longed to understand His way! heart; but, seeking to follow His way, And as I read and studied, I discov- I try to see them as He did, as "sheep ered that "the Lord's methods are to without a shepherd," looking for the be followed."—"Testimonies," Vol. IX, very message the Lord has given us p. 141. for them. We are evangelists first, Anxious to learn, I began to study and educators second. If once we can the work of admittedly great preach- lead souls to the Saviour in real con- ers, discovering often that they, too, version, it will then be a joy to teach held the people, even without the mes- them all the way of righteousness. sage which we have. How much more "Talk to the sinner with your own powerful would their work have been heart overflowing with the tender, if they had had the truth as we know pitying love of Christ. Let there be it! But again, how much more could deep earnestness; but not a harsh, we do if only we adapted their meth- loud note should be heard from the ods to the preaching of our message! one who is trying to win the soul to The thought lived with me. To preach look and live."—"Testimonies," Vol. this grand message with a power both VI, p. 67. "0, Christ is able, Christ to attract and to hold the masses, is willing, Christ is longing, to save became the passion of my life, and all who will come unto Him!"—Id., I believe it still is. But to do that, p. 66. I knew I must "educate" myself "to What McCheyne says is true today: follow His way." "It is not great talents God blesses I began, and in some measure at so much as likeness to Jesus. A holy least have continued, that self-educa- minister is an awful weapon in the tion. It meant a definite reconstruc- hand of God." May the Lord give us tion of my whole program. Every zeal, wisdom, tact, and love commen- feature of the work had to be re- surate with the tremendous task be- studied with a view to holding the fore us. people. I tried to "learn to meet the London, England. people where they are."—"Testimo- nies," Vol. VI, p. 58. "Christ cruci- fied,—talk it, pray it, sing it, and it "PERSONAL work is: will break and win hearts. This is "1. The most inexpensive in its op- the power and wisdom of God to eration. gather souls for Christ. Formal, set "2. The most lasting in its perma- phrases, the presentation of merely nancy. argumentative subjects, is productive "3. The most universal in its oppor- of little good."—Id., p. 67. tunity." 1932 The MINISTRY Page 15 Confirming the lounbationg Historical, Theological, and Scientific Research

Non-Biblical Testimony to the Historicity of Jesus* BY W. W. PRESCOTT HERE is no person in all the annals of history in behalf of whom there is Tmore convincing testimony than for Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ of the . To some who have not given the matter serious attention, this statement may seem unwarranted; but certain facts must not be overlooked in deciding this question. The testimony of contemporaries is telligent student of history to deny or of prime value. The men who wrote even to question the historicity of the four were associates of Jesus. Equally impossible is it to Jesus. Day by day they saw the mul- doubt that the four Gospels present a titudes who assembled wherever He substantially accurate and faithful ac- count of His person and work. Unless went; they heard His wonderful teach- these Gospels are all second-century ing; they saw His works; and they compilations of traditions which have testified in the most artless way of passed through many mouths and been what they themselves had seen and both colored and enlarged in the pass- heard. ing; unless they contain incidents Not only so, but through all the cen- which never occurred, but were only turies of the Christian era millions imagined, and speeches that were upon millions have borne witness never spoken but only invented; and unless it be an a priori assumption to the reality of the now invisible that miracle is impossible and every Christ. The history of the Christian narrative reporting miracle is a fiction, church is itself unimpeachable proof it must be admitted that no reasonable of the fact of Christ. ground exists for challenging the truth- It is true that there are some shal- fulness of the portrait of Jesus which low thinkers with an impulse to create has been drawn by the evangelists."— sensation and to secure a transitory "Jehovah-Jesta," Rev. Thomas White- notoriety, who will claim to doubt the law, D. D., p. 9. historical reality of Jesus of Nazareth, But there are some who accept the but they are not worthy of serious testimony of the four Gospels, and yet attention. Generally speaking, even ask in a good spirit whether there are those who deny the truth of His other writers of those early times who unique claims, do yet admit that such confirm the historicity of the Man of a person actually lived in the early Nazareth. For the benefit of this class part of the first century. of inquirers, and of any others who "It is too late in the day for any in- may be interested in the subject, the following results of- our investigation * Requests are periodically received at the are herewith submitted. Association office for dependable informa- tion on this and similar questions requir- Josephus, the Jewish historian, ing research and demanding accurate, trust- whose works are so well known, would worthy evidence. In the past, these have for the most part been answered by cor- naturally hesitate to give prominence respondence. But because of their general to one whose claims were rejected by interest and value many of these will be made available to all.—EDITORS. his nation, and who so severely re- Page 16 The MI NISTRY February buked its religious leaders, and yet "Festus was now dead, and Albinus he does bear testimony to the fact of [the procurator of Judea] was but Christ. Here is one quotation front upon the road. So he [Ananus the his writings: "Now there was about this time Jesus, a wise man; if it be lawful to CAPITALIZING Lk call Him a man; for He was a doer of wonderful works, and a teacher of BY OLIVES such men as receive the truth with Y the very circumstances which pleasure. He drew over to Him both many of the Jews and many of the in appropriations to the missi Gentiles. He was the Christ. And entreating us to cast ourselves when Pilate, at the suggestion of the that we have not done hereto1 principal men among us, had con- abundant outpouring, the power demned Him to the cross, those that work for us individually, and loved Him at the first did not forsake generally in a deeper, fuller, a' Him; for He appeared to them alive May it not be that we have made till again, the third day: as the divine dollars, and not enough upon the pow prophets had foretold these and ten thousand other wonderful things con- While we carefully survey the possibil cerning Him. And the tribe of Chris- plifying of plans, and readjustments tha tians, so named from Him, is not ex- tion, shall we not make just as carefu tinct at this day."—"Antiquities of the power and resources that are made avail Jews," book 18, chap. 3. Translated by The conviction is growing that man Whiston.* effected by careful study and thorough a Another extract from Josephus, such adjustments as will balance their bu which, so far as we know, has not been workers or returning missionaries. Tb questioned, reads thus: very last and most extreme measure. E tion of expense should be made before *it is- true that- the genuineness of this paragraph has been seriously questioned by winner is dropped from the pay roll. U some writers, and positively denied by be recommended to take up self-support George Rawlinson in a note on a lecture delivered at Oxford in which he declared: this step should have been taken before "I regard the arguments which have been Whatever adjustments are found nett brought against the famous passage in our copies of Josephus concerning our Lord's minds the fact that aggressive and succe: life and teaching as having completely es- —the only purpose for which a mission i tablished its spuriousness."—The Bamp- ton Lectures, 1859, p. 896. In direct con- for which missionaries are sent forth; tl trast with this view is the testimony of ers are trained and developed in service. Thomas Hartwell Horne, the conservative Bible scholar of the last century, who gives a much larger degree the whole aim alt good reasons for accepting the paragraph every plan laid, of every dollar spent. t as genuine. Among his reasons for believ- ing that the evidence is "most decidedly in Washington, D. C. favor of the genuineness of this testimony of Sosephus" are the following "I. It is • found in all the copies [italics his) of Josephus' works which are now extant, high priest] assembled the Sanhedrin whether printed or manuscript ; in a Hebrew translation preserved in the' Vatican library, of judges, and brought before theln the and in an Arabic version preserved by the brother of Jesus who was called Christ, Maronites of Mount Libanus. 2. It is whose name was James, and some of cited by Eusebins, Jerome, Rufinus the antagonist of Jerome, Isidore' of Pelusium, his companions."-14., book 20, chap. 9. Sozomen. Cassiodorus, Nicephorus, and by many other authors. Greeks. Syrians, and A paragraph of some length in the Egyptians, of the fourth and fifth centuries ; "Annals" of Tacitus deals with the ex- all of whom had indisputably seen various manuscripts, and of considerIble antiquity " perience of the Christians in the time --"Horne's Introduction," vol. r, P. 511. of Nero. After speaking of certain Such an array of authors in its favor would sPena to justify the acceptanCe of the' para- ones whom "the common people called graph in question as. genuine. .• Christians," Tacitus affirmed:. "Auctor 193$' The MI NISTRY Page .17

nominis' ejus Christus, Tiberio imperi- tians, a class of men of a new and tante, per procuratorem Pontium Pila- wicked superstition, were visited with turn, supplicio adfectus erat [Christ, punishments]."---"Vita Neronis" (Life of Nero), par. 16. (To be concluded) CENT RESOURCES Washington, D. C. DNTGOMFAY . confront us because of the reduction Verona trefitimoniesi ion fields, it seems clear that God is Deeper Life Confidences upon Him in a way and to a degree fore. He would have us claim, in its r and leading of the Holy Spirit to do a A New Experience in Christ then, through us, upon human hearts URING most of my Christian life nd more blessed way than ever before. D there were certain things on which a mistake of depending too much upon I took my stand, and lived up to them. er and ministry of the Holy Spirit? This gave me the reputation of being Ries of economies, eliminations, sim- a good Seventh-day Adventist, though t will effect material savings in opera- to gain this result had not entered into 1 and earnest a survey of the divine my motive. I did these things from able to us through the Holy Spirit? principle, and I am glad to say that y economies and curtailments can be at no time for over thirty years have ,nalysis that will enable fields to make I surrendered to the actual control of dgets without the necessity of dropping evil. But during this time I have had ,e dropping of workers should be the many besetments that have hindered very other economy and every elimina- my spiritual growth and marred my a single successful producer and soul happiness. ndoubtedly there are some who should I have had periods of a few days or ,ing work, but in many of these cases weeks of seeking the Lord when I the present financial crisis came. would receive rich blessing, and then 5ssary, we should ever keep before our settle down to the old life of sinning ;dui soul winning is our only objective, and repenting. All this was discour- station is established; the only purpose aging. I was dissatisfied and unhappy, ie only purpose for which native work- but I was not willing to pay the price Let us make the winning of souls in of victory. Within recent years and d purpose of every effort put forth, of with growing maturity, there came to me the alarming conviction that unless I gained a real victory, I should miss the great objective that I had so long held before me. the originator of this name, had been About five years ago I attended a punished by the procurator Pontius union conference. One Sabbath.morn- Pilate in the reign of ]."---- ing, as a result of a special, sermon and "Annals." 15, 44. a period of seeking the.Lord which fol- Those who accepted Christ as the lowed, I entered 'into an experience promised Messiah Were called Chris- such as Sister White relates in Volume tians, and Suetonius in his "Life of I. I had the vivid consciousness of Nero" mentioned their punishment by the presence of the Saviour in' my Nero in these words: "Afilicti suPPII- heart for several months, and all the ciis Christiani, genus hominum super- time cI had desire to get, my church stitionis nova et malefic [The Chris- together and tell them' what God 'had Page 18 The MI NISTRY February done for me. I believe now that with my testimony of personal victory; and counsel I might have maintained this as the testimony was true, God - wit- experience unbroken. But there fol- nessed to it. lowed a period of poor health, during With a few slight fluctuations this which I could not study; and failing experience has persisted through the to feed the spiritual experience, it summer and still persists. My devo- gradually faded, and I fell into a worse tional hours are seasons of joy. When state than before. This naturally I plan for them or enter into them, it brought dissatisfaction to a degree that is with the thrill of being about to I could not have felt previously; for meet some loved one. Sermons are I had tasted of a higher experience, born during those hours. Homiletical and feared- that I could not regain it. material is multiplying faster than I All that is changed now. During can use it. But it is all feeding my the Week of Prayer last spring I be- soul, and the hour of ministry brings came concerned about my soul as never a joy to me that I have never had before. It was a deep-seated, persist- before. ent concern that would not wear off. Just a word as to the relation of I felt that I could not continue in the this experience to my besetments, work to which God had called me un- which is the real test. An ugly dis- less I could gain an experimental ex- position in my home and with my fel- perience that would bring the Holy low workers is rapidly being displaced Spirit's witness to my labors. by a new love for everybody and a I began to seek the Lord. For some sweetness of disposition that is new days the heavens seemed as brass, but to me. I testify with humility and I continued to plead. I urged upon gratitude that other besetments are the Lord the conviction that unless He disappearing from my life. There is gave me help, I was lost. It was a coming to me the thrill of knowing heart cry, and God never withstands that my sins are forgiven and cleansed, such a cry. Heaven opened, and show- and I face the future with courage and ers of blessing began to fall. For a joyous anticipation. I am His, and He few weeks I seemed to be living -in is mine. the very atmosphere of heaven. The "Not for worlds would I exchange it, recital of favorite passages of Scrip- This sweet faith in Thee ; Earthly treasure cannot equal ture, such as the ninety-first psalm, All Thou art to me." would fill my heart with emotions A COLLEGE BIBLE TEACHER. that seemed to bring me to the very gate of heaven. From that time my Bible began to be to me a personal IT is possible for churches to oper- message, and has come to hold a new ate, and increase their membership, place in my life. by methods similar to those employed The past summer spent in ministry by clubs and lodges. But Such stand- to a large number of Churches has ardized mechanics become a travesty been one of the most blessed seasons upon God's ideal and provision for of my twenty-five years of ministry. their operation, and have no rightful For a few weeks a revival attended place in this movement. every service. Those long in the way said they thought God had sent me to TRUTH does not change, but the bring to them the message of deliver- angle of approach is always chang- ance for which they had longed for ing to meet changing conditions. We years. The only difference that I need men who have " understanding could see in my preaching was the of- the times, to know what Israel presence in nearly every sermon -of ought to do." 1932 The MINISTRY Page 19

11; renter etbangetiot A Discussion of Principle, Practice, and Problem

Conducting an Effort When Funds Are Low BY L. V. FINSTER iN these times of depression, our evangelists will feel the curtailment of funds I to provide helpers and advertising material. In many places we have in former years measured the prospects of success by the amount of money pro- vided to put into the enterprise. It is, of course, true that we must advertise and have help; but our eyes must be on the Lord, and not on material things. These hard times may prove a bless- was asked to conduct a tabernacle ef- ing to our work if they cause us to fort in Barbados, and was told that look more to the Lord, and less to there was no money for helpers or material things. When John the Bap- other expenses. After studying the in- tist preached in the wilderness of struction given through the Spirit of Judea, he did not have much equip- prophecy on what the layman should ment for carrying on his work, nor did do at this time, he determined to train he spend large sums in advertising; the church members for his helpers, but there was a power in his preaching and let them be his advertising agency. that drew great crowds to hear the Earnest efforts were put forth in train- man "sent from God" with a living ing the members, and getting them to message. Nor did Paul and his com- see their duty toward the work God panions have many paid workers or expected them to do. The response much money for advertising, but they was wonderful. did have a mighty message and the If you should happen in at one of power of the Holy Spirit in proclaim- their prayer-social meetings, you would ing it. They were not without work- conclude that nearly every member of ers, however. In Paul's letter to the the church was a Bible worker. I was Romans he mentions more than deeply stirred as I listened to the twenty-five names of believers in Rome thrilling experiences of scores of peo- who had been his "helpers" or had ple, telling of the results of their visits "labored much in the Lord." to their neighbors. The reports The present shortage of funds showed that each member was visiting should lead us to study apostolic from two to fourteen homes every methods and power. The Lord is week. I said to Elder Gardiner, "You surely leading this movement, and He have the best help that any evangelist never leads backward. We do not ever had. They know the people, and know what the future holds, but we can tell them how they themselves left do know who holds the future. Too the world or some other church, and many times we look to the creation how God has cared for them, because instead of to the Creator; the earth they have had the experience." instead of the "heavenly places." As the result of this effort, 150 per- That evangelistic efforts following sons were baptized during the first six the apostolic plan can be held, with months of 1931. The public effort little expense, yet with an abundance lasted about five weeks; but since the of help, has been demonstrated in effort closed, Elder Gardiner has been many places. Brother L. H. Gardiner kept more than busy instructing and Page 20 The MINISTRY February preparing for baptism those who have place. Extensive advertising and been brought into the truth by the large hall meetings are out of the lay members. He has a continuous question. We must work with the in- baptismal class of from thirty to forty. dividual, the family group, and the By the time one class is ready for bap- small gathering. tisin,•an equal number have joined the One who undertakes to represent class for baptism at some future time. this message in thinly settled regions The Lord is adding "to the church must be no drone, but a worker. He daily" such as shall be saved. must be ever at it; willing to sacrifice The blessing of this work is not only the comforts and Joys of home; willing in seeing souls saved, but the church to be one with all types of people, to itself is having a wonderful experience. eat the bread of poverty and like it, Where in times past there was fault- sleep in all kinds of beds, get blisters finding and grumbling, today that has on his hands while making friends all been forgotten as the minds of the with the men and boys at the end of a members have been turned to work pitchfork or hoe, not afraid to get for others. milk or manure stains on his shoes Why should we not so conduct our or sweat stains on his hatband. He efforts as to call all our church mem- must be dominated by a passion for bers into action? Is not this the call lost men, and be willing to spend and of God at this time? Are not, these ex- be spent that he may win some. If a periences the fulfillment of what is lazy minister has any place whatever given to us in the "Testimonies," Vol- in this work, it is certainly not on the ume IX, page 126? thinly settled frontier! "In visions of the night representa- A minister in these sections ought tions passed before me of a great re- to hold a cottage meeting or a preach- formatory movement among God's ing service nearly every night during people. Many were praising God. The the week in addition .to his visiting sick were healed, and other miracles and Bible studies during the day. wrought. A spirit of intercession was Again I say, we must be always at the seen, even as was manifested before the great day of Pentecost. Hundreds work given us to do, if we would hear and thousands were seen visiting fam- the Master's commendation, "Thou ilies, and opening before them the hast been faithful." word of God. Hearts were convicted Delta, Colo. by the power of the Holy Spirit, and a spirit of genuine conversion was manifest. On every side doors were THE supercritics and denominational thrown open to the proclamation of "reformers" would soon change their the truth. The world seemed to be "tune" if they got personally under the lightened with the heavenly influence. burden of actual soul winning. Deep Great blessings were received by the spirituality and intense missionary true and humble people of God." service are like the Siamese twins, Balboa, Canal Zone. —inseparable without fatality. Iv two candidates for heaven cannot Sparsely Settled Sections live and work together here on earth, BY J. E. TUCKER how do they expect to dwell together in heaven? Do they expect some mi- IN these sections we cannot use the raculous change of character for both radio or the daily papers or even the at the second advent? or is each count- weekly press to any extent; for at ing on the exclusion of the other from longest we are only a few weeks in one the kingdom? 1982 The MINISTRY Page 21 "In the end of the Sabbath."—New- berry. Pluminateb Mext1 "Late in the week."—Rotherham. Side Lights From Translations "On the eve of the sabbaths."— Young. A Service Feature "At the end of the nbbath."—Cen- tenary New Testament. THIS section is conducted as a serv- "It is the evening of the sabbaths." ice for our workers. Be free, there- —Concordant. fore, to draft upon the fine assemblage "Late in the Sabbath."—Von Tisch- of translations gathered here at head- endorf. quarters. Personal replies will bring "After the Sabbath."— Goodspeed. the requested comparisons to you im- Twentieth Century, Weymouth. mediately. They will later appear in "Late on Sabbath."— Interlinear this section as space permits. Greek. "At the close of the Sabbath."—Mof- :1 fatt. "In the close of the Sabbath."—Sy- (The inquiry is upon the expression riac. in bold face.) Standard Versions "In the end of the Sabbath, as it Psalms 110:4 began to dawn toward the first day "THE Lord bath sworn, and will not of the week, came repent, Thou art a priest forever after and the other Mary to see the sepul- the order of Melchizedek."—Author- Version, cher."—Authorized ized. "Late on the Sabbath day."—A.R.V., "Order."—A. R. V.,* R. V.* R. V. Jewish Catholic Version "In the end of the Sabbath."—Douay. "Order."—Leeser. "Manner."—New Translation (1917). Historic English Translations Catholic Wiclif, 1380.—"But in the euentide of the Saboth." "Order."—Douay. Tyndale, 1534.—"The Sabboth daye Independent Translations at even." "Order." — American Baptist Im- Cranmer, 1539.—"Vpon an euening proved, Darby, Fenton, Moulton, New- of the Sabbothes." berry, Young, Septuagint. Geneva, 1557.—"About the later ende "A priest as once Melkizedek was." of the Sabbath day." —Moffatt. Rheims, 1582.—"And in the euening "Manner."—Rotherham. of the Sabboth." "A Melchezidek."—American Trans- Independent Translations lation. "Late on the Sabbath day."—Amer- ican Baptist Improved, Moulton. Daniel 9:24 "Late on the Sabbath."—Darby. Standard Versions "After the sabbaths.* "—Fenton. "Seventy weeks are determined upon "* The Gr. original is in the plural, 'Sab- thy people and upon thy holy city, to baths,' which is retained. Readers should remember that all the seven days of the finish the' transgression, and to make Paschal week were 'sabbaths' in the old Hebrew Kalendar.—F. F."—Footnote. * FOOTNOTE.—"Or, manner." Page 22 The MINISTRY February an end of sins, and to make reconcilia- "That he may run that readeth it." tion for iniquity, and to bring in ever- —Darby, Moulton, Newberry. lasting righteousness, and to seal up "That to it the reader may run."— the vision and prophecy, and to anoint Fenton. the most Holy."—Authorized Version. "That one may read it at a glance." "Decreed."—A. R. V., R. V. —Moffatt. Catholic Version "That one may swiftly read R."— "Shortened."—Douay. Rotherham. "That he may run who is reading Jewish Versions it."—Young. "Determined."—Leeser. "That one may read it on the run."— "Decreed."—New Translation (1917). An American Translation. Independent Translations "That he that reads it may run."— "Decreed."—American Baptist Im- Septuagint. proved, Moulton. "Apportioned."—Darby. "Fixed."—Fenton, Moffatt. Hebrews 10:37 "Determined." —Newberry. Young, Septuagint. Standard Versions "Divided."*—Rotherham. "For yet a little while, and He that "Destined."—American Translation. shall come will come, and will not tarry."—Authorized. Habakkuk 2:2 "Shall not tarry."—A. R. V., R. V. Standard Versions Catholic Version "The Lord answered me, and said, "Will not delay."—Douay. Write the vision, and make it plain Historic English Translations upon tables, that he may run that readeth it Wiclif, 1380.—"Schal not tarie." "That he may run that readeth it." Tyndale, 1534.—"Will not tary." —A. R. V., R. V. Cranmer, 1539.—"Wyll not tary." Geneva, 1557.—"Wil not tary." Jewish Versions Rheims, 1582.—"Vvil not slacke." "That a man may read it swiftly." —New Translation (1917). Independent Translations "That every one may read it flu- "Will not delay."—American Baptist ently."—Leeser. Improved, Darby, Interlinear Greek, Catholic Version Syriac, Weymouth. "That he that readeth it may run "Without delay."—Fenton, Moffatt, over it."—Douay. Centenary, Twentieth Century. "Will not tarry."—Newberry, Rother- Independent Translations ham, Young, Davidson. "That he may run who reads it"— "Shall not tarry."—Moulton. American Baptist Improved. "Is not delaying."—Concordant. *FOONOTE.—"Heb. : hathak—here only. "And not delay."—Goodspeed. Authorities are agreed that the primary meaning of hathak is `to divide ;' and it is a sound rule that, where the primary sense may well stand, another meaning should not be sought for. An actual division of the THE power of influence is tremen- 'weeks' here undeniably presents itself : di- dous. Others may be profoundly moved vision l'irst, 'seven' weeks ; division second, 'sixty-two' weeks ; division Third, 'one' by our forward moves. Now is the week." time to advance. 1932 The MINISTRY Page 23 °dune thcbange For an Enlarged Service

Attracting Youth to the Bible Work—No. 1 BY LOUISE C. KLEIJSER HILE an apparent overproduction in some departments of our work is Wreceiving serious study, the efficient, all-round, practical Bible worker is still in demand. Since her services must increase with the urgency of this message, her development should receive greater consideration, and her sphere should be so elevated that the attractiveness of this profession will appeal to young women. And this can be materially aided by the tactful and encouraging touch of Bible workers of experience. Bible workers are developed by a may have responded more to my ear- process that requires more than a nestness and my personal convictions course of study in our schools. Pro- than to my ability to give good Bible foundly grateful for what the Chris- readings. In preparing my studies, I tian school did for me, my attraction was conscious that the beauty of the to the Bible work grew out of a defi- gospel message held a stronger appeal nite call. I longed to take to others than the casting down of the strong- the message brought to me by an effi- holds of error. This did not detract, cient Bible worker. Waiting for an however, from the forcefulness with opportunity to pursue my education, I which I knew the message must be entered the colporteur ministry, and presented. I felt that I must take my spent two and a half years in house- work seriously, and studied faithfully. to-house visitation, which brought fre- I especially needed to do this, since quent contact with persons seeking no professional training had prepared truth. Through this experience I me for the Bible work. Under the learned to meet life as it is, and to for- leadership of an evangelist, I received get personal discomforts. The power help in preparing a few studies. His of prayer became a daily inspiration transfer, however, deprived me of fur- and my Christian life was rounded out. ther assistance, and left me to wrestle Feeling the great need of personal almost single-handed with the prob- workers in their conference, the lead- lems of taking care of an increasing ers persuaded me to enter the Bible interest and heavy church leadership. work, and in that field I labored for Youthful and energetic, with a sym- eight years. During this period my pathetic church to back my work, the experiences were varied. I worked Missionary Volunteer Society became with some of our leading evangelists my helping hand. From that day, and also with beginners. My time was wherever I worked, the youth of the equally divided between efforts for our church were my coworkers. Before English-speaking people and for the young readers accepted the truth, they Germans. Our message brought a were introduced to the society, and daily inspiration to my life, which I there the youth of the church helped longed to pass on to other youth. To me to bring them over the line. Our reach young people was my keenest Standard of Attainment studies be- joy. came evangelistic efforts, and our liter- It now seems to me that My readers ature campaigns a part of the great Page 24 The MI NI STRY February scheme of youthful evangelism. While Then, too, the sympathy of cowork- some of my methods might be ques- ers features strongly. More experi- tioned, today I know I made a right enced Bible workers must open their beginning in enlisting youth to share hearts, and take youthful aspirants in the work. God takes care of many under their wings. There is no place mistakes when the worker is yielded for jealousies; there is room, and to Him. much of it, for helpfulness. Evangel- Mingling freely with the young peo- ists must sense their responsibilities ple in church fellowship, I realized by avoiding for the young worker a that I must be careful to uphold the narrow plane of development. Many dignity of my profession. A Bible a promising Bible worker is ruined for worker is too busy for familiarities. the work during her first effort. She Specializing in friendships with a receives a mold which unfits her ever chosen few usually leads to trouble. A to work successfully with another type businesslike attitude graces the call- of worker. ing, and yet professional dignity must As laborers together for Christ, may never interfere with a desire for gen- our vision of the Bible worker's pro- uine usefulness that will sacrifice it- fession be such as to cause us to draw self to the limit. Burdened souls must young women into this gospel minis- find a refuge; but the Bible worker try. Then, having drawn them, may must have a clear-cut vision of duty we rally to the help of youthful inex- and hold off the tongue of gossip. perience. My personal tribute to the Our message is one of good tidings. score of noble workers who helped to The depressed, poorly poised worker fit me for this work, cannot be ex- conveys the idea that the yoke of pressed in words. They dealt pa- tiently with my overenthusiasm, and Christ is too heavy to accept. While fanned the flames of initiative into youth pities, she also shuns the ap- proach of such a worker. The whole- increasing service for God. To them I some laugh can be balanced by a seri- owe much of the inspiration that urges me constantly to guide young women ousness that produces profound respect into this blessed gospel service. for truth and its necessary obedience. A sense of humor never comes amiss New York City. when properly under control. One reason the Bible work has not ap- pealed to young people as 'much as 13e istuerp Corner have certain other lines, is because On Life and Labor youth shrinks from gloom. Too much of it has shrouded the profession. The Miraculous Birth of Christ After a few years in the Bible work, I returned to school, hoping thereby The assertion was recently hurled at to obtain a better preparation for the me that Christians worship an illegiti- Work. This was a helpful experience, mate child. Answered by reference to and one that would be of profit to :20, the question was then Many workers. The association with asked, "Why was it right for the Holy fellow students, and their entrance Spirit to do what it was not right for into the various fields of service when man to do?" How can 1 best answer courses in school were completed, gave this challenge? me a different perspective of the work. The very claim made by Christians My vision soon reached to the ends regarding the birth of Christ, namely, Of 'the earth in a more tangible way that He was born in a manner differ- thMi before: • ent from other men, calls for a belief 1932 The MI NI STRY Page 25 in miracles. If a person altogether re- fact that in the ordinary course of fuses to recognize miracles, then of events God 'thus allows man to be a course we cannot enter into any dis- factor, does not thereby eliminate God cussion. However, in this particular or His divine Spirit from the mystery question, the inquirer evidently con- of birth. The divine Spirit must be ceded that a miraculous act—that is, ever present to quicken, else there is an act out of the range of ordinary no life possible. When Paul spoke to events—took place; for he bases his the Athenians, he told them that God charge on the ground that the action "giveth to all life, and breath, and all of the Holy Spirit really was invoked things." Acts 17:25. in the conception of Christ. This sim- Therefore, as we have already stated, plifies the matter, and enables us to your inquirer wrongly puts the ques- dispose of the question is short com- tion. It is not whether the Holy Spirit pass. should be a factor in the birth of a When your inquirer raises the ques- being in contrast to man, or whether tion, "Why was it right for the Holy it is "right" for one and not for the Spirit to do what it was not right for other. The divine Spirit must always man to do?" he does not state the be a factor in the birth of any being. question correctly. He reveals a for- In this particular case, God saw fit to getfulness of the truth so repeatedly have life brought forth without allow- stated in the Bible, that the life which ing a man to be a factor. In other all created beings have comes first of words, Christ, who is described in the all through the action of God's Spirit. Bible as the "last Adam"—for He In the creation account we read that came to restore what the "first man, "the Spirit of God moved upon the face Adam" had lost by sin—was placed of the waters," as a prelude to the here in this world, even as was our whole series of creative acts that great father Adam, by virtue of the op- brought every form of creature into eration of God's Spirit without the existence. Gen. 1:2. And specifically, factor of a human father. Was the when man was created, we read that literal father of our human race there- God "breathed into his nostrils the fore illegitimate? How absurd! Then breath of life; and man became a liv- equally absurd is it to speak of Him ing soul." Gen. 2:7. The marginal who is the spiritual head of the re- reading in Genesis 7:22 says: "The deemed family in this earth as an ille- breath of the spirit of life." gitimate child. F. D. Nicitor... Since the series of miraculous events at creation which placed the CONCERNING relativity in the phys- parents of all forms of life upon the ical world we have nothing to say, but earth, God has not followed the plan in the realm of the spiritual, our of arbitrarily bringing further beings knowledge is not absolute but relative. into existence simply by the action of We see, as it were, through a glass His divine Spirit, but has ordained darkly, in proportion to light and that man should be a factor in deter- knowledge and opportunity. And be- mining whether further lives should cause of this, God is merciful to us. be brought forth. God graciously per- Let us never in our natural tendency mitted man to be a worker with Him to dogmatism, forget that we know but in populating the earth, revealing relatively. thereby a wisdom beyond man; for by this co-operation on man's part there CONSTRUCTIVE grappling with, diffi- is made possible that most beautiful cult problems is imperatively needed of institutions, the family. But the today. Page 26 The MINISTRY February

lEbe aizociation jforum A Round Table on Efficient Methods

dir Making Stronger Adventists BY A. J. MEMILBJOHN E have all been distressed to see persons come into the church, apparently Win good faith, remain a short time, and then drop out. In my own work I have tried in many ways to remedy this situation. The baptismal class has given some help; but it seems as if we need a more extended course of instruc- tion than the usual class of this kind imparts. It is natural for those who have been when the regular Sabbath school be- Adventists for a number of years to gins its review. In this way, they will forget what a break one must make have more time to spend with the with the past to become a member of teacher, and quiet for prayer and this church. It is our duty as workers heart-to-heart appeals. The class to see that our new members are not should return to the main room in time only converted, but also thoroughly for the closing exercises. indoctrinated, if we would make sure How to Conduct the Class.—The that they will stay with us. To meet class is conducted the same as any this need with one group of interested Sabbath school class. The names of persons, I organized a class in Sabbath those attending regularly are enrolled school to give special instruction. on the class card, a record of attend- How We Organized the Class.—First, ance is kept, and the offering received. I talked over the problem with the However, instead of studying the les- church board and the Sabbath school sons in the Quarterly, we use the little superintendent, and obtained their book, "The Bible Made Plain," the consent and co-operation in organiz- cost being met as a regular item of ing this special class. A number of per- Sabbath school expense. The class sons who were contemplating church takes one lesson a week, and six membership, but who were not yet months are required to complete the regular attendants at the Sabbath serv- book. The members are urged to ices, were visited by the Bible worker study daily, and encouraged to come and myself, and urged to become regu- to the class prepared to discuss the les- lar members of the class. The Bible son. They are visited during the worker was the teacher. week, and given any necessary help. Special Attention Needed.—A class Taking the Class Into the Church.— of this kind requires more attention Upon the completion of this special and needs more encouragement than course the members of such a class other Sabbath school classes. The who are ready are baptized and teacher must be more than ordinarily brought into the church. They then well qualified; for it will take tact, pa- begin the study of the regular Sab- tience, and much hard work, coupled bath school lessons, either in a class with a real interest in each member, by themselves or as members of vari- to make the class a success. If possi- ous other classes. Of course it is un- ble, it should be arranged for this class derstood that during the last weeks to retire to a room by themselves, of this special class, at some suitable 1932 The MI NISTRY Page 27 time outside the Sabbath school hour, at the very beginning of his address or the members will be given an inten- sermon running his fists down into his sive course of study covering church trousers' pockets and keeping them organization, and the duties and obli- there during a considerable part of the gations involved in church member- time he is speaking. It is a kind of ship. slouchiness for which there is no ex- Practical Results Obtained. — (1) cuse, and which would be tolerated in Members of such a class, who have no other important place. Imagine, usually taken Bible studies or attended for example, the ambassador of the a series of meetings before joining the United States to Great Britain, charged class, come into the church thoroughly with a message from or concerning his familiar with the doctrines. By at- country, assuming in its delivery the tending this class, in addition to other undignified, hand-in-pocket, free-and- instruction received, they get the sub- easy posture and manner of ad- ject matter in a different way, and are dress. . . . consequently better informed. (2) By the way, we wonder how many They come into the church through the ministers are conscious of the degree Sabbath school; therefore they have to which they are addicted to the hand- the Sabbath school habit before they in-the-pocket habit. A careful watch- join the church, which is highly bene- ing of oneself for a Sunday or two ficial. (3) They come in as home mis- with respect to this habit might bring sionary workers. In our church we revelations that would be something have the fifteen-minute home mission- of a surprise to many a preacher. It ary service between Sabbath school is often the result of a kind of nerv- and church, and the Sabbath school ousness, for some men do not know classes are the home missionary bands. what to do with their hands anyhow. Hence these inquirers are led natu- —Watchman-Examiner, May 21, 1931. rally into active missionary work. They have their part in the campaigns. It is not uncommon to find them leading Our Denominational Name some of the older members in real, active service. (4) They have estab- HILE the mere spelling of our lished the churchgoing habit before W denominational name is doubtless they come into the church. to be tabulated among the "jots and As I look over the work of this spe- tittles," nevertheless it is surely de- cial class for the past year, I am con- sirable that every worker correctly vinced that it has justified itself in spell our own church name. "Seventh- many ways. Some of the finest people day," is hyphenated, and "day" is not in our church today have entered it capitalized. In this we differ from through that class. the practice of Seventh Day Baptists. And assuredly we should never read Denver, Colo. of the "Advent" church, as has ac- tually appeared in some of the adver- Rittbip Correttibto tising circulars and letterheads we have received. Accuracy in details On Speech and Conduct does not minimize emphasis on fun- damentals; rather, it enhances it. A Slouchy Habit THERE are few things more gro- Mmn negativism, however sound and tesque and awkward than the sight necessary, never builds nor becomes a of a well-dressed, well-set-up speaker positive force. Page 28 The MINISTRY February which we announce over the radio will Zbe be sent to any one free of charge upon Pets Ompl request. Among those requesting lit- Through Our Letter Rag erature are physicians, bankers, law- yers, etc. Last week I received a re- Radio Technique.—God is blessing quest from the secretary of the cham- our radio work. We have one hour, ber of commerce of one of our cities from eleven to twelve o'clock, every in the valley. A banker met our Sunday. We go on the air with one treasurer a few weeks ago and told of the old familiar hymns, such as, him that he had never heard anything "When I survey the wondrous cross," so remarkable as was being presented "Nearer, my God, to Thee," or "Abide over the radio on the prophecies of with me," sung by the choir. Then I Daniel and the Revelation, and ear- open my Prayer Corner, reading re- nestly requested that he be placed quests that have come in for prayer. upon our mailing list. Thus contact is I mention these by name, and tell being made with a class of people where they live, trying to make it who will not come out to our tent just as personal and human as pos- efforts or our churches, but to whose sible. After presenting the requests, homes we may have free access I offer an earnest prayer for these per- through the radio. sons. Immediately, 'without being an- I shall not go into detail regarding nounced, the choir responds with the the presentation of the doctrines, for chorus of the hymn, "For You I Am most of our ministers understand how Praying." The chorus then sings an- to present them aright. But sympathy other old hymn, and we work in our and love mixed in with the doctrines, special numbers,—solos, duets, quar- with Christ ever lifted up, will al- tets,—vocal and instrumental. All ways draw men and women to the these numbers consist of old hymns; light of this glorious message. for I find that the public at large like I. M. Buss. these much better than the new jazzy Fresno, Calif. type of "sacred" songs. About thirty-five minutes is given to the subject under discussion. I have Vat inisster' ISookt found that it pays to stay by the Reading Course and Reviews positive truth of the word of God, and back up every statement by a "Thus Reading Course Credit Cards saith the Lord." For example, while Cnxnxr cards are awaiting all who I am permitted to speak on the state complete the reading of the Minis- of the dead, I receive unfavorable com- terial Reading Course books for 1931. ment from Spiritualists if I speak on In America, apply to the Association the subject of Spiritualism. Since we office at headquarters for your card; obtain the desired results by present- in other divisional fields, to your di- ing the positive doctrines on the state vision Association secretary. All who of the dead and other truths, I en- are following this study plan are in- deavor to steer clear of saying any- vited to complete these volumes speed- thing controversial, or of appearing to ily, that they may enter early into the be critical of any one's belief. Staying benefits of the excellent selections for by the positive message brings much 1932. favorable comment. Thus far we have received hundreds FULLER truth should bring light, not of requests for the printed sermons heat. 1932 The MI NISTRY Page 29 Cast Not Away Therefore Your all this. There are many interesting Confidence and helpful fields that allure today, but what will be our responsibility as (Concluded from page 8) ministers if we allow ourselves to be or in actuality. God can and does diverted to interests that do not rise bless the ministry of men compassed to the demands of such a time as this? by human weaknesses and limitations, If one has no divine message, he would but personal confidence in the funda- better cease preaching, and so make mental verities of the message we room for him who has such a message. preach is imperative to its successful If he has lost his bearings and his con- proclamation. It is likewise indis- fidence, he would better drop every- pensable for the worker's own soul's thing and address himself to the one sake. To maintain the integrity of his task of regaining his bearings and re- self-respect, it is essential to believe establishing the basis of his confidence. unreservedly the rugged truths that, It is fundamental for us individ- unscathed, have stood the test of years, ually, and without mental reserva- the assaults of enemies, and the be- tions, to believe that this movement trayal of friends. arose at the divinely appointed time Let there be no mistaking the is- to complete the arrested Reformation, sue. It is the fact of God that is under to restore the lost or neglected truths fire. It is the veracity of His word of the Bible, to proclaim the everlast- that is at stake. It is the foundation ing gospel to a world in revolt,—all of elemental Christianity that is chal- with the threefold message of Revela- lenged. The crisis is the most pro- tion 14 as its working program. This found and sweeping in human history. is the hour for every worker to re- This movement was raised up to affirm his allegiance. L. E. F. meet this issue. It must and will re- main separate and distinct from all Youthful Recruits other religious movements to the very end. We will never merge even with (Continued from page 3) other Fundamentalists, noble as is shortage of money, workers must be their stand upon many truths. We dropped, then shall it not be borne in cannot lower our colors, and they will mind that it is immeasurably more im- not give our message. portant that the truth continue to be There are, thank God, many auxili- preached in every place than that a ary agencies and stalwart individuals routine be continued or an office be whom God is using as assisting ad- maintained? juncts. They constitute pathfinders, In the financial stress that we now breaking down prejudice, preparing are meeting, and still must expect to the way for the logical and inevitable meet, we should study greatly to sim- reception of this message by honest- plify our organization before even one hearted truth lovers. Many of these efficient ministerial worker, is dropped will yet unite with us, for God has His or before the way for young men to people scattered throughout the com- enter the ministry is closed. munions of Christendom. These we It is seriously possible that no other are to call out of corporate Babylon, situation that this denomination ever as well as to gather converts from has met has so gravely menaced the heathendom. ability of the movement to effect its How tragic that any should devote God-given purpose. Whether that be their interests and energies to non- so or not, it is true that the present essentials or side lines in the face of position of our ministry is one of very Page 30 The MI NISTRY February real peril. If the movement is to be He knew the. Scriptures as neither assured of the strength of its ministry priest nor rabbi knew them. He spoke in the years just before us, it must per- of God as His Father. The disciples mit no time to elapse without strongly were impressed that He was the Son recruiting ministerial workers from of God, the long-looked-for Messiah. the ranks of its young manhood. This conviction deepened as the days To do this is at all times a work of went by. They heard Him in the first importance in the life and purpose synagogues every Sabbath day; often of the movement. No conference His sermon was followed by divine should lose sight of the fact that in healing the like of which had not been this matter it is face to face with a seen since the days of Elisha. Every thing which is vital to the evangelical one around them was talking about existence of the movement. this young Man whom they were fol- Truly the harvest is great. Truly lowing. Blind men were seeing, deaf the laborers are altogether too few. men went from His presence hearing, Pray for great grace and wisdom to leprous men were cleansed, and para- come upon the church in this hour, lytics arose and walked at His com- that every worker whom the Lord of mand. the harvest has called or yet shall call Soon the disciples found that they may be efficiently and fully employed were following a man whom the people in the world's great human harvest. proposed to make King in the stead of Caesar. Wherever they went, there Called to Be Fishers of Men was a stir; men were moved by His (Continued from, page 1) teachings and convinced by His won- what was in man." He understood drous miracles. Even His chosen even their thoughts. This stood Him twelve were swept off their feet by the in good stead on more than one occa- enthusiasm of the crowd to make Him sion. In the closing part of His min- King. "Jesus for King of the Jews!" istry He was watched and suspected, was on every lip, for who was such and often questioned by the shrewdest a leader as this wonder worker? Was men of His day. But never man an- not God indeed with Him? Many swered as He. His chosen men were times the chosen twelve forgot that to learn of Him, and themselves be- they had been called to become fishers come "fishers of men." of men; they were so concerned about Simon and Andrew knew fishing as the coming kingdom and who should a business. Their fathers before them be first, that being made fishers of men were #shermen, and they had been seemed to them inferior to holding an trained in fishing from their child- office in the new kingdom. But Christ hood. They were masters of their never forgot the objective for which He had called His disciples. trade; they knew when was the proper time to fish, and what kind of fish Men can learn to be fishers of men. they would catch each season of the None is so poor or unlearned that he year. Now they were to learn a new cannot become proficient in this divine vocation; henceforth they were to be occupation. Said Christ, I will "make schooled in the art of fishing for men. you fishers of men." He would teach They learned by seeing and hearing. them the truth, and by contact with Soon they saw that this young Man Him and hearing His teaching they whom they followed was a miracle would be continual learners. worker, and that with Him dwelt di- During Christ's lifetime the disciples vine power. They found Him often were learners. They were students away from the city in earnest prayer. under the greatest Teacher the world 193l The MI NISTRY Page 31 has ever seen. No other men have had ciples in Jerusalem after the ascen- such a training as the twelve. Young in sion of Christ, and produce similar years, lithe and strong of body, clear- results. There has never been another headed and stout-hearted, they were movement like that following the de- called to follow the Master. During scent of the Holy Spirit. Observe how His ministry they heard and saw as no the city was stirred; note how the students had heard and seen before priests and elders were moved; count them, and none since. Thus the dis- the number of converts and how these ciples who once were expert fishermen converts were soon turned into mis- were trained to become expert fishers sionaries, going everywhere proclaim- of men. It is not fair to call them un- ing the message they had received; trained and uneducated. The disciples and then answer, Did not Christ make grew into fishers of men uncon- the disciples fishers of men? sciously, by their association with the That is what Christ can do for men Son of God, the greatest Teacher who today as well as when He was with ever undertook to train men. He them on earth. The Holy Spirit per- trained them by living with them, suaded and moved men to repentance praying with them, and unfolding to then as now. It was after Pentecost them the plan of salvation. that the fruitage was gathered in. And The day of Pentecost reveals what the Holy Spirit can do as great a work kind of men they had become. Let today as He did then—if He can have those who make light of the disciples the men with whom to work. "Follow of Christ and call them uneducated, Me, and I will make you fishers of reproduce the sermon that Peter men," is the promise, and back of it is preached on the day of Pentecost. Let all the power of the Godhead. Who any man who looks upon himself as would not willingly obey the command, trained and educated, follow the dis- and become a learner? 1. H. E.

Contents of This Issue

CALLED TO BE FISHERS OF MEN 1 TRENCHANT TRUTHS 2 MESSAGES FROM OUR LEADERS: Youthful Recruits Must Augment Our Ministry 3 POEM: Thy Sheep 4 FORWARD AND UPWARD: Promised Power—Good Counsel as to Unfulfilled Details 4 EDITORIAL KEYNOTES: Cast Not Away Therefore Your Confidence 7 HOMILETIC HELPS: What Is Coming ?—Christ's Commissibn to His Disciples (Matthew 10) 9 THE BETTER WORKMAN: Personal Work in Connection with Evangelism— Holding the Interest 11 CONFIRMING THE FOUNDATIONS: Non-Biblical Testimony to the Historicity of Jesus 15 PANEL: Capitalizing Latent Resources 16 PERSONAL TESTIMONIES: A New Experience in Christ 17 A GREATER EVANGELISM: Conducting an Effort When Funds Are Low— Sparsely Settled Sections 19 ILLUMINATED TEXTS: S : 1—Psalms 110:4—Daniel 9:24—Ha- bakkuk 2:2—Hebrews 10:37 21 BIBLE WORKERS' EXCHANGE: Attracting Youth to the Bible Work, No. 1 23 THE QUERY CORNER: The Miraculous Birth of Christ 24 THE ASSOCIATION FORUM: Making Stronger Adventists 26 KINDLY CORRECTIVES: A Slouchy Habit—Our Denominational Name 27 THE FIELD SAYS: Radio Technique 28 THE MINISTER'S BOOKS: Reading Course Credit Cards 28 EDITORIAL POSTSCRIPTS 32 Page 3 The MINISTRY February

EDITORIAL POSTSCRIPTS

CONDENSE!—Leave some things to the imagination. For example, the omis- sions in the narrative are as important as the descriptions. The average mind reasons from cause to effect. Give it a chance. This is the day of condensation. MFmoE!—Subordination of all personal or sectional interests in behalf of the welfare of the cause at large is as logical and requisite as was the operation of the same principle at the time of the World War. Ours is a holy warfare, and we are soldiers of the King of kings. REPRESENTATIVE!—The minister is a public representative of this message. He is therefore an object of special observation, and should ever walk, talk, dress, act, and recreate in the light of this sobering fact. This inescapable responsibility imposes restrictions upon him that are ignored only at the loss of spiritual prestige, and perhaps of peril to souls. Cnirics!—There is nothing so distressing to critics as to be ignored. They write or talk in the hope of attracting attention. They thrive only as they gain recognition. When met by silence, their cause languishes. There are, of course, times when gross misstatements of fact call for a corrective pronouncement, but these instances are comparatively rare. We have a constructive work to do, a positive message to give; and just to the extent that we permit our time to be diverted to defense, our assigned work is hindered. OrFICE!—Let none bemoan the loss of official position. There is no privilege so exalted, no position so honorable, no life to be so coveted, as that of direct, full-time soul winning. Official position is naught in comparison therewith. Official life is filled .with cares, distraught with multitudinous details, many of which are of a mechanical nature. The criticisms of men are mingled with their plaudits, and the powers conveyed by church vote can be as quickly re- moved. Let not the intoxication of office allure; the supreme privilege of the minister is to evangelize. CAPITAL!—Has not the hour come to encourage believers of means to make draft upon their capital for the consummation of the cause we love? What greater evidence of the lateness of time's hour do we need? Erelong it will be too late for such gifts. A thousand dollars now will be of greater use than vast sums later. The hour approaches when the treasures of earth will all be valueless. Many will offer their means when it is too late. Others will be anguished by the loss of all as persecution arises. Surely this is the golden hour for buying up providential opportunities. PERPLEXITY!—If troubled over some perplexity in the writings of the Spirit of prophecy, remember that there are likewise perplexing statements and prob- lems in the Bibld. The presence of this feature is not, therefore, a valid objec- tion to its authority and heavenly origin. Read the writings, live in their atmosphere, and see if the soul is not lifted heavenward, if the ideals are not exalted, if the vision is not clarified by their study. Where, outside the word itself, can be found such spiritual insight, such lofty ideals, such loyalty to and light on the word? Such evidence is unassailable. L. E. F.