Evangelism and the Doctrines
by Ellen White
The third angel's message calls for the presentation of the Sabbath of the fourth
commandment, and this truth must be brought before the world; but the great Centre of
attraction, Jesus Christ, must not be left out of the third angel's message.... EV 184
Many of our ministers have merely sermonised, presenting subjects in an argumentative
way, and scarcely mentioning the saving power of the Redeemer. Their testimony was
destitute of the saving blood of Christ. Their offering resembled the offering of Cain. He
brought to the Lord the fruit of the ground, which in itself was acceptable in God's
sight. Very good indeed was the fruit; but the virtue of the offering--the blood of the
slain lamb, representing the blood of Christ--was lacking. So it is with Christless
sermons. By them men are not pricked to the heart; they are not led to inquire, What must
I do to be saved? Of all professing Christians, Seventh-day Adventists should be foremost
in uplifting Christ before the world. EV 185 (GW 156 [1915])
Some ministers err in making their sermons wholly argumentative. There are those who
listen to the theory of the truth, and are impressed with the evidences brought out; then,
if Christ is presented as the Saviour of the world, the seed sown may spring up and bear
fruit to the glory of God. But often the cross of Calvary is not presented before the
people. Some may be listening to the last sermon they will ever hear, and the golden
opportunity lost, is lost forever. If in connection with the theory of the truth, Christ
and His redeeming love had been proclaimed, these might have been won to His side. EV 193
(GW 157F [1915])
In labouring in a new field, do not think it your duty to say at once to the people, We
are Seventh-day Adventists; we believe that the seventh day is the Sabbath; we believe in
the nonimmortality of the soul. This would often erect a formidable barrier between you
and those you wish to reach. Speak to them, as you have opportunity, upon points of
doctrine on which you can agree. Dwell on the necessity of practical godliness. Give them
evidence that you are a Christian, desiring peace, and that you love their souls. Let them
see that you are conscientious. Thus you will gain their confidence; and there will be
time enough for doctrines. Let the heart be won, the soil prepared, and then sow the seed,
presenting in love the truth as it is in Jesus. EV 200 (GW 119F [1915])
Those who have been educated in the truth by precept and example should make great
allowance for others who have had no knowledge of the Scriptures except through the
interpretations given by ministers and church members, and who have received traditions
and fables as Bible truth. They are surprised by the presentation of truth; it is as a new
revelation to them, and they cannot bear to have all the truth, in its most striking
character, presented to them at the outset. All is new and strange and wholly unlike that
which they have heard from their ministers, and they are inclined to believe what the
ministers have told them, that Seventh-day Adventists are infidels and do not believe the
Bible. Let the truth be presented as it is in Jesus, line upon line, precept upon precept,
here a little, and there a little.--Undated Manuscript 79. EV 201
After the people have embraced the truth and taken their stand, then the Lord will
prepare them to be educated for the full reception of Bible truth. EV 386
Be guarded. In bearing the message, make no personal thrusts at other churches, not
even the Roman Catholic Church. Angels of God see in the different denominations many who
can be reached only by the greatest caution. Therefore let us be careful of our words. Let
not our ministers follow their own impulses in denouncing and exposing the "mysteries
of iniquity." Upon these themes silence is eloquence. Many are deceived. Speak the
truth in tomes and words of love. Let Christ be exalted. Keep to the affirmative of truth.
EV 576
There are many in the world who are longing to understand in regard to Christ and his
love. There are many who are in despair as they hear the terrible doctrine of eternal
punishment.... If you will try to seek out these suffering souls, the angels of God will
attend you; and you need not fear to go where they will go. Ministers you should have the
angels with you in the sacred desk; and when you do, you will be a power for God. RH
JUN.25,1889