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Theory at Work

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Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Oct 28, 1902

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 79, No. 43.

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Theory at Work

By H. B. Tilden

IN the last issue of the SUPPLEMENT, there appeared this question: Is it advisable to hold large State institutes annually, or several small ones locally? The answer favored the latter part of the question.
In the saying that “practice makes perfect,” is wrapped the truth as uttered by the Spirit of God in Prov. 4: 7: “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” Wisdom is knowledge, and the ability to use it. A man may have an abundance of knowledge, and yet show no wisdom. Wisdom is knowledge at work.
The manager of any business who expects to make a success of his undertaking must roll up his sleeves, and get out with his employees. Likewise, our leaders who expect to make their Master’s business a success must as quickly as possible give their co-laborers a theoretical training, and then go out with them, and show them how to put their theory to work.
The assistance of the experienced is needed by the inexperienced. Jesus emphasized this fact in the following language: “Without me ye can do nothing.” John 15: 5. Jesus is the Shepherd-in-chief. The State agent is the under-shepherd, and his position should not be lightly regarded by himself, nor by those over whom he presides. When does a shepherd spend the most time with his flock? — When in the field. Then is the time his presence is especially needed. The State agent who cannot spend a large portion of his time in the field with the individual canvassers need not expect to see his work crowned with success.
Our plan should be that a greater portion of our institute work be carried on in the field. In studying the life of our Saviour, we find that his plan was to give short courses of instruction, followed by practical work in the field, in which he personally engaged with the disciples. Certainly his exemplary course should lead us to consider the institute work more seriously.
The Lord has given to each of us a talent, and to increase this talent left with us, we must work for him. Practical education is “higher education.” Theoretical training receives its finishing touch by work.
H. B. TILDEN.