A Transformation-Not a Revolution

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jun 19, 1913

A Transformation—Not a Revolution

MANY important changes were made in the General Conference just closed. There was created in reality a world conference. The work in Europe was organized into a great division conference. The same was done for the work in North America. The organization of the work in India was perfected. Elder I. H. Evans, who has been connected with the work in Asia for the last three years, was called to the presidency of the North American Division Conference. Elder R. C. Porter, who has spent a number of years in South Africa, was chosen to take charge of the work in the Far East. Elder W. B. White was selected to take charge of the work in South Africa. Other important changes were made in laborers.

Changes in the State and nation involving interests as vital to the state as these are to the church, would quite likely be attended with a great deal of agitation and disorder, possibly bloodshed. They would constitute a revolution. These many and important changes, however, as related to the work of this movement, were effected quietly and with mutual understanding and good feeling. No arbitrary measures were put through. The desire of every heart was for God to lead, and we believe that God has led in the transformation that has been brought about. Some of the workers to whom has come a change of field relate the manner in which God had impressed their hearts and given them distinct convictions as to their field before the changes were suggested to them by their brethren.

We know, however, that although these changes have been mutually agreed upon, and those who have changed their fields have done so believing that God was guiding, many a sacrifice of personal interest has been involved. It is no easy thing for men and women to break away from home and friends and old-time associates and go to unknown fields. It is no easy thing to make of homes and personal effects and household gods chattels of barter and sale. Cherished idols must be sacrificed, and the very life itself placed upon the altar of service. A real test of heroism and loyalty comes here. Thousands of Seventh-day Adventist workers have met and passed this test again and again in their experience. Thousands of others will do it before this work closes.

The question of the consecrated heart is not, Where can I find the easiest place, the position of honor and personal advantage, but, Where can I best serve my Master? In what part of the battle-field can I render the highest service to the cause of Prince Immanuel? Heaven recognizes this spirit. We have the word of the Saviour that he who leaves father or mother, wife or children, homes or lands, for the sake of the gospel, shall find a home among those for whom he labors, and in the end he shall receive the blessed heritage of eternal life. We do not find our assurance today in the things of time and sense; we must endure as seeing him who is invisible.