p. 571 | The Engrafted Word

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Sep 16, 1886

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 12, No. 36.

The Engrafted Word

But even though the seed be sown on good ground, it must germinate before it can bring forth fruit. The tendrils must work their way into the soil, so that they can draw from it strength and moisture. In harmony with this idea are the words of James: “Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.” James 1: 21. It is not simply the word that is able to save our souls, but the engrafted word. All know how grafting is performed: the branch is cleft, and the scion is placed within it, and bound in, so that it becomes a part of the branch. Now when the word of God is fastened in the heart, so that it becomes a part of the being, then it is able to save the soul. Then a person's thoughts are God's thoughts, and his ways are God's ways. So David says, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” Ps. 119: 11.