p. 16 | Offerings Every Week by William Covert

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D.C. · Mar 24, 1904

Offerings Every Week

By William Covert

WM. COVERT

A SHORT time ago we enjoyed the occasion of our annual offerings very much. A child of God is always made glad when he sees provisions made for spreading the gospel of the kingdom. Why not make substantial offerings every week? The situation in the world demands of us a strenuous effort. We are blessed as Christians in proportion to the effort put forth in advancing the Lord’s cause. A church that does not work to advance the gospel among sinners is the most cheerless, lifeless organization in the world. Church-members who do not work in this way become wretched and miserable. A Seventh-day Adventist company that does not engage actively in promulgating the message of Jesus’ second coming is of all organizations the most inconsistent.

Every consideration argues that we should select the most effective method possible for raising means to forward the third angel’s message, and then push ahead with great faithfulness. The plan of weekly offerings is an admirable method for providing funds to extend and build up the work in many lands. Its frequent occurrence is greatly in its favor. Through this means our attention is often called to the great wide harvest-field. The aggregate amount of fifty-two offerings in twelve months can scarcely fail to make a handsome sum.

If each of the seventy thousand Adventists in the world should give ten cents a week, the total offering for one week would be seven thousand dollars, and for one year it would give the grand total of three hundred and sixty-four thousand dollars. It may be said that some members can not do as much as is suggested. True; but many could do much more, so the average could be made to reach that amount. The missionary offerings for the year 1904 should greatly exceed those of any previous year. If any have been neglecting this matter, let them give it immediate attention.

Every church should use the envelope plan in carrying this into effect. Almost every church that does use the missionary envelopes for its weekly offerings has greatly increased the amount given. And usually the spirituality and courage of the members have increased in a like ratio. These envelopes can always be secured through the tract society department of the conference. There should be frequent remittances to the Mission Board, in order that the many needs of the cause may be regularly supplied.

Every church should agitate this subject until all become thoroughly aroused. They should also teach its needs and methods until every one is perfectly instructed. Keep at it, and soon it will be enjoyed, and then it will be easy.