Our Work and Message by William Covert

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D.C. · Dec 1, 1904

Our Work and Message

By William Covert

WM. COVERT

As the time for another week of prayer approaches, we are impressed with the thought that the world is older and the coming of the Lord nearer than ever before. The third angel's message, which tells the student of gospel prophecy about earth's last great struggle, and teaches him to meet it, is even now far advanced with its weighty mission. Its stirring notes have been heard, and to some extent heeded, by many kindreds, tongues, and peoples. Already tens of thousands have joyfully accepted the glad truths taught, and many adherents are earnestly engaged in proclaiming the wonderful story.

Christ, in speaking of the signs of his second coming, said: “When these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.” What, then, should be our expectations when we consider that the judgment hour, which is to be closely followed by the resurrection of the righteous dead and the coming of our Lord, began its solemn work more than sixty years ago?

The fact that the heralds of Jesus' second coming are actually doing their work in fulfilment of the many prophecies which show the nearness of the great, decisive day, should mightily arouse all our people, and cause them to equip for immediate and decisive action. The work which Seventh-day Adventists are doing is of itself incontrovertible evidence of its truthfulness. The messages which they are giving are precisely what the Word of God declares must go to the whole world just before Christ comes in the clouds of heaven. Since these things are so, the only consistent thing for our people to do is to demonstrate their faith and interest in these things by spreading the messages over all the earth with the greatest possible speed. All available help should be utilized. Money should be given and talent used in saving souls while the opportunity lasts.

We understand that the General Conference Committee is admonishing our people to raise twice as much money this year by the agency of their annual offerings as they gave last year. The sum of this fund reached forty thousand dollars last year, but double that amount is needed this year. We do not believe that He who died for sinners would advise us to give a less amount. When we consider the many millions who are unsaved, and our responsibilities toward

them, the only consistent course that we can take is to trim all our lamps, and, as far as lies in our power, place bright lights to shine in all the dark corners of the earth.

The money and the ability which the Lord has given his people are for the purpose of establishing his work in the earth. Then let it not be tied up in napkins or placed in banks while it might be used in sending laborers with the gospel to perishing sinners.

Brethren and sisters, can we feel clear before the Lord if we do not now meet the demands which the third angel's message is making upon us? Does not the situation say that every needy field under the sun should be entered by our missionaries and faithfully worked at the earliest possible date?—Surely it does; and shall not we proceed to do this work without longer delay?