p. 14 | The Value of Individual Work by F. H. Robbins

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Dec 14, 1916

The Value of Individual Work

By F. H. Robbins

THERE are many of our people who can hold Bible readings with their neighbors. This is a very important branch of missionary work, and brings good results, for by this means the worker comes into personal touch with the people, and he can present the sacred truths of the Scriptures. He can urge them to read and study for themselves, and God will water the precious seeds of truth and cause them to grow in honest hearts.

Some hesitate to do self-supporting Bible work, thinking they are not well enough qualified. But if they would begin, God would crown every humble effort with success, and they would develop into strong men and women for Christ.

Much patience, perseverance, and consecration are necessary to prevent one from becoming discouraged when first beginning, but many times the best results are seen from the humblest work. The influence of the Holy Spirit always accompanies the worker for Christ while the truth is being presented. Often the truth is more effective when given at close range around the fireside than when presented to large audiences. After the resurrection, the Saviour told the disciples to go and teach; and this is the best work a person can do. One can accomplish much good by sitting down in the homes, and letting the people ask questions. Then in a humble manner the Bible may be opened and scriptures read which will turn the current of their thoughts, and find a way to their hearts.

I am pleased to say that I have seen the results of such faithful self-supporting Bible work, in what has been done by Sister H. W. Martin, of Kushequa, Pa. She worked for some time among her neighbors, and finally the interest demanded some public preaching. I had the privilege of holding a series of meetings there last month, and as a result of Sister Martin’s work and the meetings, nine have begun to keep the Sabbath, and a number of others are deeply interested. We expect to see some of them take their stand for the truth in the near future. Sister Martin has a nice little Sabbath school of about fifteen.

I hope that others will follow her example by engaging in Bible work until such an interest shall be aroused as will make it necessary to send a minister to hold public meetings to help bind off the work. From now until the end of time, we must stand ready for service. We should lose no opportunity to make known to needy souls the unsearchable riches of Christ. If we fail to do our duty, the word of life may never be presented to them in a way that they will accept it. At such a time as this we dare not say, “I pray thee have me excused.”

F. H. ROBBINS.