Authority, True Worship, and the Vineyard of Christ

Church leaders and pastors should speak with the authority of Christ’s ambassadors, but this authority must be rooted in humility, simplicity, and a life transformed by the Holy Spirit rather than human pride or arbitrary power.

The Nature of Ministerial Authority

• Ministers are Christ’s representatives, and the people should regard them as ambassadors who receive their wisdom and power directly from the great Head of the churchGW92 11.2.

• When a minister hears the voice of the Great Shepherd saying, "Lo, I am with you alway," he works as if in the presence of Jesus, and his preaching becomes a demonstration of the Spirit and power Matthew 28:20RH September 4, 1888, par. 12.

• To slight or disregard the word spoken by Christ’s representative is to show disrespect not only to the man but to the Master who sent himGW92 11.2.

• Pastors are given authority to reprove wrong and purify the church; they are held accountable for evils they might have checked through the exercise of pastoral authority 1 Timothy 5:17CG 235.4+1.

Humility Versus Arbitrary Control

• True leadership is not characterized by being an "exacting ruler" or assuming "supreme authority," but by acting as a wise counselorPaM 54.3+1.

• Jesus provided the ultimate lesson in humility for ministers when He girded Himself as a servant and washed the disciples’ feet, despite having all power in His handsPaM 284.2.

• Leaders must never encourage others to look to them for wisdom or act as "confessors," but should instead humble themselves and exalt Christ2SM 170.4.

• It is a mistake for leading brethren to mark out every direction for workers, as this prevents others from developing a care-taking spirit and relying on their own judgment under GodChL 37.3+1.

Qualifications for Speaking with Authority

• Ministers must be living representatives of the truth they preach, possessing a spiritual life characterized by simplicityPaM 30.4.

• True authority comes from the divine influence accompanying the word, not from "theatrical display" or "worldly singers" intended to awaken interestPaM 136.1.

• If a minister’s heart is not pure, or if they hide baseness under a "ministerial cloak," their influence becomes a stumbling block and they are like guideposts pointing toward death1888 48.1+1.

• There is no inherent power in the mere act of laying on of hands; ordination does not immediately qualify someone for ministerial work without the presence of the Holy SpiritGW 442.3.

Effective Methods of Instruction

• Christ spoke with assurance and power, yet He used such simplicity that even a little child or the unlearned could understand HimRH April 23, 1908, par. 9.

• The most effective way to spread the message often involves teaching combined with discussion, such as Bible class studies or personal labor in familiesPaM 136.1+2.

• Ministers should avoid long, labored discourses that tax the patience of the hearers and instead give short talks that are right to the pointPaM 199.3.

• A true shepherd follows Christ’s example by using illustrations that appeal to every heart, ensuring that the humblest and most sinful do not feel neglectedPaM 286.1.

Accountability and Responsibility

• Ministers who preach "self" instead of Christ, or who disregard the testimonies of the Spirit of God, contribute to a lack of spiritual power in the church5T 217.2.

• The word of God does not permit an individual to set up their own judgment in opposition to the church, as church discipline is necessary to keep the body from falling to fragments15MR 130.2.

• Pastors must be wise as serpents and harmless as doves while laboring in the midst of a world that may oppose them Matthew 10:16CW 58.1.

• Ultimately, the work of the ministry is to make itself "superfluous" by raising believers to the unity of faith and the full knowledge of the Son of God Ephesians 4:11-13TDOC 253.4.

Worship is considered vain when it is based on the commandments and traditions of men rather than the sincere obedience of the heart to the Word of God Matthew 15:9COL 276.1. To ensure our worship is acceptable, we must move beyond mere outward forms and ceremonies to a spiritual experience rooted in truth and love John 4:23-246T 249.1.

Characteristics of Vain Worship

• Substituting Human Tradition for Divine Command: Worship is rendered empty when the maxims and inventions of men are exalted above the plain requirements of God's law17MR 200.1+1.

• Lip Service without Heart Service: Honoring God with the mouth while the heart remains far from Him, or remains self-sufficient and impenitent, is a form of hypocrisy that Christ condemned Matthew 15:8COL 276.1+1.

• Formalism and Pretense: A religious life that consists only of ceremony and outward show, without the indwelling love of Christ, cannot call forth a response from heaven16MR 330.3+1.

• Teaching Doctrines of Men: Many today make the law of God void by observing rites and traditions, such as a counterfeit sabbath, which have no foundation in the Scriptures4BC 1149.1+2.

The Standard of True Worship

• Spirit and Truth: God is a Spirit, and those who worship Him must do so in sincerity and in harmony with the truths revealed in His Word John 4:24ROSS 5.4+1.

• Obedience and Fruit-Bearing: True worship is not found in noise or bodily contortions, but is manifested in a holy temper of soul and good works, such as caring for the needy and the afflictedST February 24, 1890, par. 5+1.

• Working with Christ: Faithful, self-denying labor and co-operation with Christ in seeking to save the lost is more acceptable to God than the most zealous forms of "thought-to-be" holy worship2T 24.4+1.

• Reverence for the Sacred: Genuine worship includes a profound reverence for God’s name and a refusal to use it carelessly or for vain repetitionST February 24, 1890, par. 5+1.

A Call to Self-Examination

• Looking at the Heart: While man looks at the outward appearance, God discerns the secret motives and intents of the soul5T 333.2+1.

• Seeking Personal Conversion: There is a danger of being hearers of the Word but not doers; we must ensure that the truth has a sanctifying power in our lives, changing our rough characters into the likeness of ChristFW 116.2+2.

• Rejecting Sophistry: We cannot safely build our faith on fables or the assertions of men, no matter how popular or long-standing they may beDA 398.4+1.

• Cultivating Home Religion: True service begins in the home, where every heavenly grace is to be developed through a spirit of praise and cheerfulnessBEcho June 18, 1894, par. 7+1.

Unless the Holy Spirit is allowed to control the life and the heart is brought into a contrite, humble state, even the most rigorous religious activity remains a "vain oblation" Isaiah 57:151888 1408.3+1. Seek the Lord with all your heart, for He is found by those who seek Him diligently1888 1408.3. 😊

While Christ initially sent out the twelve, He later appointed seventy other disciples to go two by two into every city and place He intended to visit Luke 10:1HLv 330.2+1. These workers were indeed instructed to carry no purse, money, or shoes as they went forth on their mission Luke 10:4BIAD 97.2.

The Purpose of the Mission

• Preparation for Christ: The primary object of the seventy was to act as delegated forerunners, preparing the way and awakening an interest in the minds of the people before the Master arrivedST June 25, 1896, par. 1+2.

• Symbolic Representation: While the twelve symbolized the princes of the tribes of Israel, the seventy represented the wider body of the people, similar to the seventy elders appointed to assist Moses Numbers 11:16LTJMB4 54.

• Extending the Message: This larger number of disciples was sent to a broader territory, including the cities of Samaria, where they were to proclaim that the kingdom of God had come nighDA 488.4+2.

Specific Instructions for the Journey

• Two by Two: Jesus sent them in pairs so they could unite in counsel and effort, ensuring that one man’s judgment would not be the sole guide9LtMs, Ms 21a, 1894, par. 23+1.

• Reliance on Providence: By commanding them to carry no money or extra supplies, Christ taught them to rely on God's provision through the hospitality of those who received their message Luke 10:4-7ST December 10, 1894, par. 6.

• Focus and Speed: They were directed to "salute no man by the way," an instruction intended to prevent distractions or delays during their rapid, temporary mission Luke 10:4LTJMB4 56.2.

• Healing and Teaching: Their commission was twofold: they were to heal the sick and preach the gospel, showing that in God's work, teaching and healing are never to be separatedCME 42.1+2.

The Success of the Seventy

• Supernatural Power: Although their mission was temporary, they were endowed with power from the King, and even the devils were subject to them through Christ's nameGCDB March 24, 1891, page 223.4+2.

• Joyful Return: When they completed their work, they returned with great joy, reporting the victories they had witnessed over the power of the enemy Luke 10:17MH 139.2+1.

• Heavenly Recognition: While they rejoiced in their power over spirits, Jesus reminded them to rather rejoice because their names were written in heaven Luke 10:20RH March 27, 1900, par. 13.

Lessons for Modern Workers

• Urgency of the Message: Just as the seventy were sent because the harvest was great and the laborers few, today there is a need for gospel medical missionaries to carry the truth without delay Luke 10:2LLM 387.3+1.

• Simplicity in Labor: Modern evangelists are encouraged to work as the disciples did, focusing on house-to-house labor, praying for the sick, and talking of the truth to those they meetCM 23.2+2.

• United Action: The plan of sending workers "two by two" remains the original and best plan for the conversion of souls, allowing for harmonious action and mutual support9LtMs, Ms 21a, 1894, par. 23+1.

The term "dumb dogs that cannot bark" refers to unfaithful watchmen or religious leaders who, out of a desire for ease, popularity, or a false sense of peace, fail to warn God's people of approaching danger or the consequences of sin5T 211.2+2. These individuals occupy responsible positions but have betrayed their trust by remaining silent when they should be lifting their voices like a trumpet to show people their transgressionsEVRR241+1.

The Character of the Unfaithful Watchman

• Silence in the Face of Sin: These leaders are described as "blind watchmen" who do not bark to warn the flock because they love to slumber and look to their own gainHSFM 64.5+1.

• Proclaiming "Peace and Safety": Instead of sounding an alarm, they assure the people that God is too merciful to visit them in judgment and that times have changed, thus strengthening the unbelief of those in their careEVRR241+1.

• Motive of Self-Interest: They are often greedy for gain, caring more for the "fleece than for the flock," and seeking their own way rather than the advancement of Christ's kingdomHST March 13, 1844, page 43.11+1.

• Avoidance of the Cross: Some remain silent because the truth involves a cross that they believe the multitude will never acceptHSFM 64.5+1.

The Consequences of Silence

• Spiritual Ruin of the Flock: By prophesying "smooth things" and failing to declare the whole truth, these shepherds lead souls to perdition while professing to guide them to ParadiseLDE 247.3+1.

• Vengeance from God: Those who refuse to bark or warn the people are the first to feel the stroke of God's wrath and just vengeance5T 211.2+1.

• Blood Guilt: If a watchman sees the sword coming and does not sound the warning, God will require the blood of the perishing souls at the watchman's hands4T 402.3+1.

• Destruction in the Final Judgment: In the day of final accounts, the multitudes who were deceived will turn upon these false shepherds with fury, realizing they are lost because of their unfaithfulnessLDE 247.3+1.

The Call to Faithful Stewardship

• Lift Up the Voice: True servants are commanded to "cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet" to show the people their sins and warn them of the coming King Isaiah 58:1HFM 81.2+1.

• Uncompromising Truth: A faithful watchman must fearlessly declare the whole truth, moving to the front irrespective of censure or applauseChL 73.1+1.

• Sighing and Crying: God sets a mark of deliverance only upon those who "sigh and cry" for the abominations done in the church and the land Ezekiel 9:4EVRR241+1.

• Active Labor: Rather than being "do-nothings," faithful servants use their talents, means, and influence to save perishing souls and prepare the world for the Lord's appearing2SM 132.3+1.

The Lord requires watchmen who are awake, energetic, and persevering, listening to hear the words from the Divine Teacher and faithfully proclaiming them to the people2T 549.2+1. 📢 There is a terrible dearth of men who will hold forth the words of life to those perishing in sin, and it is time for the watchmen to wake up and perform their sacred mission1888 1151.1+1.

Jesus twice used His divine authority to forcibly cleanse the temple, driving out those who had turned the house of prayer into a place of sacrilegious traffic and robbery1888 1078.7+1. These acts were among the most solemn and powerful of His ministry, revealing His royal right as the guardian of the temple and the King of Israel3SP 22.2+1.

The Nature of the Temple Traffic

• A System of Double Robbery: The priests and temple officials engaged in a scheme where they purchased sacrifices from country owners at cheap prices under the guise of religious service, then resold them to worshipers at exorbitant ratesARSH March 26, 1901, page 200.7.

• The Bazaars of Annas: This market was known as the Bazaars of the sons of Annas, the high-priestly family that derived considerable profit from the rental and percentage paid by money-changers and sellersLTJMB3 99.1.

• Desecration of the Sacred: The presence of sheep, oxen, and the clinking of money-changers' tables created a terrible desecration of the temple courts, turning a place of worship into a cattle marketLTJMB3 99.1+1.

The Execution of the Cleansing

• Authority and Power: Jesus entered the temple not as one defeated, but with an authoritative manner that insulted the dignity of the proud rulersDA 620.2+1.

• The Flight of the Corrupt: At His command, the priests and rulers fled in terror and indignation, unable to resist the poor Galilean whose glance alone drove them from His presenceDA 162.2+2.

• A Messenger of Mercy: Immediately following the clearing of the courts, the temple became a scene of mercy as the sick and suffering pressed in to find the great Healer3SP 24.2+1.

Prophetic Significance

• Two Distinct Calls: The first cleansing occurred at the start of Christ's ministry and the second at its close; these correspond to two distinct calls made to the churches in the last days to come out of spiritual Babylon1888 1078.7+1.

• A Warning for the End: Just as the priests sought refuge in flight, those who reject the messages of God today will face "startling declarations" and "terrible" announcements when the Holy Spirit invests the final warning with sanctity and solemnitySpTA07 54.2+1.

• A Call to Purity: This work represents the necessity of a thorough preparation and the removal of every "idolatrous" or "cherished sin" from the heart before the Lord’s appearing3T 543.1+1.

While men might have exercised power over His human body during the crucifixion, they could never rob Him of His royal right to forgive sins or His power to cleanse both the earthly and heavenly sanctuariesHF 257.1+2. We must ensure our own lives are brought into conformity to His will, for the day of the Lord comes as a thief in the night to those who are in spiritual stupor 1 Thessalonians 5:210MR 387.1+1.

Matthew 25:40

40 And the King shall answer and say to them, Truly I say to you, Inasmuch as you have done it to one of the least of these my brothers, you have done it to me.

Matthew 25:40 serves as a profound declaration of Christ’s identification with suffering humanity, revealing that every act of mercy or neglect toward the needy is regarded as if done directly to HimARSH December 8, 1859, page 17.9+1.

Christ’s Identification with the Needy

• Absolute Oneness: There is such a close union between the saint and the Saviour that an act done to one is done to the otherARSH December 8, 1859, page 17.9.

• The Suffering Representative: Jesus identifies Himself with His people in their most humble and trying circumstances; it was He who was hungry, thirsty, a stranger, naked, sick, and in prison Matthew 25:35-362T 25.3+1.

• Condescension to the Lowliest: In the judgment, Christ identifies Himself with even the meanest and least of His people, stating that he who touches them touches the apple of His eyeARSH January 29, 1861, page 83.2.

• Wounded in His Friends: Conversely, acts of hatred, unkindness, or neglect toward a weak member of the church are felt by Christ as personal insults and injuriesARSH December 8, 1859, page 17.9.

The Scope of "The Least of These"

• Needy Believers: The household of faith is to be the first object of care, where members support the weak, teach the ignorant, and minister to the sick Galatians 6:10WM 178.4+1.

• All Suffering Humanity: The work of mercy must extend beyond church borders to aid others irrespective of their faithCCh 284.6+1.

• The Friendless and Outcast: Christ manifested His greatest pity and tender compassion for the helpless and needy2MR 41.4.

• The Unfortunate and Afflicted: This group includes the blind, the lame, the widow, the orphan, and those dependent upon others for the necessities of lifeWM 213.1+1.

Practical Service as True Worship

• The Fruit of Love: True love for God leads to feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and comforting the feeble-mindedARSH December 8, 1859, page 17.9.

• A Standard for Judgment: In the final judgment, the sentence pronounced is based on what has been done or left undone for those in need Matthew 25:34-407LtMs, Ms 26a, 1892, par. 21.

• Relieving Physical Suffering: Medical missionary work and the establishment of industries to provide employment are essential ways to help poor familiesWM 198.2+1.

• Self-Denial for Others: Christ, who was rich, became poor for our sakes; we are called to follow His example by denying ourselves of useless ornaments and selfish indulgences to provide for the destitute 2 Corinthians 8:94T 645.3+1.

The Reward of Benevolence

• Treasures in Heaven: By relieving the needy and investing means in the cause of God, one becomes rich in good works and lays up a foundation for eternal life Matthew 19:21CS 151.2.

• A Remedy for Spiritual and Physical Ailments: Dealing bread to the hungry and covering the naked is a promised remedy for poor health and spiritual darkness Isaiah 58:7-8WM 303.3.

• Unconscious Service: The righteous are represented as being surprised by their reward, as their acts of love were done naturally from a heart imbued with the Spirit of Christ rather than from a desire for a rewardRH July 3, 1894, par. 5.

Warnings Against Neglect

• Neglect is Robbery: Those who withhold means that could relieve suffering human beings are viewed by Christ as having robbed Him of the glory He would have received21MR 351.4.

• Selfishness as a Curse: Withholding means from the needy out of covetousness or a desire for earthly treasure will ultimately prove to be a curse1T 494.2.

• Judgment of the Unfaithful: Those who lived only to please themselves and ignored the cries of the poor will hear the language of condemnation: "Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me" Matthew 25:41-45HM November 1, 1889, par. 19+1.

Matthew 25:40

40 And the King shall answer and say to them, Truly I say to you, Inasmuch as you have done it to one of the least of these my brothers, you have done it to me.

The "least of these my brethren" refers to the poor, the sick, the suffering, and the oppressed, whom Christ has placed among us as His personal representatives on earthT30 139.1+2. Jesus so fully identifies His interest with suffering humanity that He regards every act of kindness or neglect toward them as if it were directed toward Himself21MR 220.8+1.

The Identity of the "Least"

• The Needy and Destitute: This group includes those who are naked, hungry, and lacking daily food Matthew 25:35-36ARSH December 8, 1859, page 17.9.

• The Afflicted and Sick: It encompasses the suffering, the sick, those in prison, and those struggling with physical or mental infirmities Matthew 25:36ARSH December 8, 1859, page 17.9.

• The Marginalized: Christ specifically points to the widow, the fatherless, the stranger, the outcast, and the discouraged as His "little ones"MM 121.1+2.

• The Oppressed and Erring: He identifies with those bound in chains of superstition, the colored people of the South who have been neglected, and even the "weakest and most sinful" who need mercy9T 225.3+2.

• Needy Church Members: Special attention is to be given to the "poor of the flock"—those faithful believers who may have lost their situations or means because of their obedience to the truthWM 336.3+1.

Christ’s Identification with Them

• A Personal Relationship: Christ has allied Himself with every human being, and because He invested His all in humanity, He feels every treatment of the poor as a personal matterGCB/GCDB 1895, page 303.9+1.

• The Representative on Earth: He tells us plainly that the poor are His representatives, placed among us to awaken the same love and pity in our hearts that He feels for themT30 139.1+2.

• A Shared Experience: Because Christ was a "man of sorrows" who had nowhere to lay His head, He sympathizes with the lowliest of His earthly children Isaiah 53:3T30 139.1+2.

• Wounded in His Saints: Acts of hatred, "bitter words of envy," or even an "averted eye" toward a weak member of the church are "barbed arrows" that pierce the heart of JesusARSH December 8, 1859, page 17.9.

The Purpose of Their Presence

• To Develop Character: The Lord surrounds us with the helpless and needy to provide opportunities for us to deny self and perfect a Christian characterRH October 15, 1895, par. 7+1.

• To Test Our Love: By committing the afflicted to our care, God tests the sincerity of our profession; a neglect of the suffering poor is a direct neglect of ChristT30 139.1+2.

• Missionary Opportunities: Relieving the wants of suffering humanity is the "pioneer work of the gospel" and the most successful way to reach hearts with the truthWM 192.5+2.

The Final Reckoning

• The Basis of Judgment: In the final judgment, the King does not ask about our professions of faith, but rather how we treated the "least" of His brethrenDG 200.1+2.

• Unconscious Service: The righteous will be surprised at their reward because their service to the needy was a natural result of Christ's love dwelling in their heartsRH December 23, 1884, par. 9+1.

• Retributive Justice: Those who "rob God" by withholding from the suffering poor or who greet the needy with "cold looks and cruel words" will face the King's condemnation in the judgment Matthew 25:41-45T30 139.1+2.

Those who are not considered your brethren are those who persist in the spirit and works of the enemy of righteousness, such as worldlings who live for self-gratification and those who unite with the accuser of the brethren to harm or misjudge God's peopleRH August 27, 1889, par. 6+1. While Christ seeks to adopt all into the household of faith, many choose to stand under the banner of the prince of darkness, rejecting the truth to follow the dictates of the flesh11MR 334.3+1.

The Distinction of Character

• Servants of the Enemy: Some who profess to know God actually dishonor their profession through gossiping, malice, and evil-surmising, proving by their works that they are servants of the enemy rather than Christ3T 52.2+1.

• The Worldly and Ungodly: Worldlings are those whose hearts are opposed to the religion of Jesus Christ and who find pleasure in the amusements and gaiety of the world rather than the service of GodDG 231.1+1.

• The Unbelieving and Rebellious: Those who like Cain refuse to obey God’s commandments and instead cherish rebellious feelings are not of the same spirit as the children of God1SP 54.1+1.

Specific Groups Identified as Enemies

• Accusers of the Brethren: When individuals join the enemy in accusing, misjudging, or adding a false coloring to a brother’s words, they are acting on the side of him who destroys and tears down the cause of truthRH August 27, 1889, par. 6.

• False Brethren and Deceivers: There are "false brethren" who bring in another gospel or doctrines that lead away from Christ; these are not considered part of the body of Christ, who is the truthGTI 72.1+1.

• The Spirit of Antichrist: Anyone who transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ, or who refuses to confess that Jesus has come in the flesh, is identified as a deceiver and an antichristAA 554.2+1.

• Oppressors and Persecutors: Those who use force, laws, or intimidation to compel the soul to violate God’s commandments are on the side of the dragon and are enemies to the saints4bSG 54.4+1.

The Danger of Worldly Alliances

• Friendship with the Lord's Enemies: Entering into intimate relations or alliances with those who have no connection with Heaven is a friendship that inspiration calls "enmity with God"ST July 1, 1903, par. 10.

• Followers of Human Invention: Those who follow the maxims of worldlings and reject the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit for human invention are being deceived and carnalized2MR 337.1.

• Blinded by the God of This World: Many are so blinded by the god of this world that they bestow their gifts upon the enemies of truth while neglecting the needs of God’s cause2SM 134.2.

We must remember that while there are invisible foes and "grievous wolves" who do not spare the flock, we are called to have the deepest sympathy for those in the service of the enemy, for they know not the precious Saviour whom we claim to know1888 70.1+1. However, we cannot have fellowship with the Lord’s enemies—within or around us—without endangering our own souls and the souls of those committed to our careST June 2, 1881, par. 24.

The school of Christ produces a transformation of character marked by meekness, lowliness, and unselfish love, fitting the student for both useful service in this world and an eternal inheritance in the next. Those who truly enter this school will manifest the attributes of the Savior in their daily deportment and conversation3T 448.3+2.

The Development of Christian Character

• Meekness and Lowliness: The primary lessons learned in the school of Christ are humility and a spirit of teachability3T 448.3+1. Jesus invites us to take His yoke and learn of Him, for He is "meek and lowly in heart" Matthew 11:29.

• A Perfect Similitude: The work of this school is to mold the human agent after the divine similitude, reproducing the same love, grace, and unselfish benevolence that characterized the RedeemerST November 5, 1896, par. 16+1.

• Refinement and Purity: Through secret communion with God and the study of His Word, the student is refined, choosing pure and noble thoughts while putting away everything vain and frivolous1NL 83.5+2.

• Righteous Principles: It produces men and women who stand as true to principle as the needle to the pole, adding to their faith virtue, knowledge, patience, and godliness 2 Peter 1:5-713MR 196.1.

Practical Fruits of the Spirit

• Gentleness and Kindness: Students find peace and happiness in being gentle and kind toward others, seeking to bless rather than to please selfRH January 2, 1894, par. 10.

• The Law of Kindness: It places the "oil of grace" in the heart and the "law of kindness" on the lips, resulting in a character that is tender, sympathetic, and courteous3BC 1164.2.

• Missionary Fitness: True education in this school prepares individuals for foreign mission work by first creating an earnest desire to save souls at home6T 427.3.

• Love in Deed and Truth: It produces a love that is not merely an impulse or a statement of affection, but a permanent power and a divine principle manifested in unselfish actsBDOC 53.10.

Building for Eternity

• A Solid Foundation: The school of Christ teaches the student to build their character on the "Solid Rock," ensuring the structure is symmetrical and able to withstand the tempests of trialCT 61.3+2.

• A Savor of Life: The soul becomes surrounded by an atmosphere of love that makes the believer a "savor of life unto life," enabling God to bless their laborBDOC 53.10.

• The Divine Image: Ultimately, this training results in human nature being brought to the perfection of Christ's character, reflecting the divine image so clearly that it may be read in the very features of the countenanceTSS 21.1+2.

• Fitness for Heaven: It provides the "wedding garment" of Christ’s righteousness, which is the necessary fitness for entering the gates of the city of God Revelation 14:51SAT 302.1+1.

The school of Christ produces genuine holiness by transforming the human character into the divine similitude through daily lessons in meekness, purity, and lowliness of heartSpTB16 8.3+2. This holiness is not a superficial experience but a deep inward piety that results from the entire conformity of the human will to the divine7MR 274.3+1.

The Nature of True Holiness

• A Clean Heart and Mind: Holiness involves the re-creation of the human agent through the merits of Jesus Christ, bringing a clean thing out of an unclean and restoring the image of God in man7MR 274.3+1.

• Practical Godliness: True holiness is manifested in the daily life through practical godliness, where religious principles and righteousness rule every action and conversation3T 237.1+2.

• Implicit Faith: The work of righteousness cannot be carried forward unless we exercise implicit faith and move every day under God’s mighty working power4MR 348.2.

• Separation from the World: Holiness requires us to come out from the world and be separate, reflecting the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness in a degenerate age 2 Corinthians 6:17-18HF 293.2+1.

The Process of Producing Holiness

• Daily Learning: We must be daily learners in the school of Christ, sitting at His feet as Mary did to learn lessons of self-surrender and devotionCSW 104.1+2.

• The Plan of Addition: Sanctification is a progressive work where we add to our faith virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, and godliness 2 Peter 1:5-75MR 340.4+1.

• Dying to Self: Genuine holiness requires a daily dying to self and a constant conflict with natural inclinations to bring them into harmony with the will of God 1 Corinthians 15:31LS 237.1+1.

• The Merits of Christ: Nothing but the righteousness of Christ can entitle us to the blessings of grace; we must look away from our own supposed merits and rely fully on Jesus as a sin-pardoning SaviourCCh 47.4+1.

The Fruits of a Holy Character

• The Fragrance of Influence: When the promises of God are accepted in faith, they have a fragrant influence upon the life, making the believer reflect the image of the Divine5MR 340.4+1.

• Sweet Graces of the Spirit: Transformation of character is seen in the casting out of evil passions and the development of the sweet graces of the Holy SpiritGW 516.1+1.

• Unselfish Service: Holiness produces a soul hunger for the knowledge of God and a desire to impart precious lessons of truth to othersCSW 104.1+2.

• Preparation for Eternity: The time of probation is given specifically to perfect a character fit for the future immortal life, clothed in the spotless robe of Christ's righteousnessRH June 17, 1890, par. 15+2.

The Standards of Holiness

• Respect for God’s Law: True sanctification is evidenced by a conscientious regard for all the commandments of God and a realization of the binding claims of His lawFW 96.3+2.

• Physical and Moral Harmony: Because a close sympathy exists between the physical and moral nature, habits of temperance are essential to maintain a high standard of virtue and spiritualitySpM 210.2+1.

• Total Consecration: God demands all the powers of the mind and being; holiness is glorifying Him through the sanctification of soul, body, and spirit 1 Thessalonians 5:234MR 348.2+1.

Ministries to those often considered outcasts or in the "gutters" of society are a sacred responsibility that requires divine sympathy and a firm grasp of the truthWM 251.2+1. These individuals, though they may have lost their manhood or womanhood through degradation, are to be treated with the same compassion Christ showed to the publican and the leperWM 247.1+1. When the hand of love is stretched out to save them, many will respond, rise to high places of service, and become coworkers in saving other soulsWM 251.2+1.

The Work of Restoration

• A Call for Persistent Kindness: Workers must not desist when outcasts feel unfit to be helped; rather, they should compel them by kindness to look to the Savior hanging on the cross14LtMs, Ms 19, 1899, par. 29.

• Recovering the Perishing: Through the gospel of grace, those who have been neglected by churches can be recovered from the depths of degradation and intemperanceWM 247.1.

• Developing New Workers: Many who are rescued from the lowest places are eventually entrusted with responsibilities because they know by experience the necessities of those for whom they laborWM 251.2.

• The Goal of Sanity and Choice: As these individuals become sane through the love of Christ, they make the kingdom of heaven their choice and are clothed with the wedding garment of His righteousness14LtMs, Ms 19, 1899, par. 29.

Balancing the Gospel Mission

• All Classes Must Be Reached: While the work for the outcasts is important, it should not become the "all in all" or the great burden of the mission to the exclusion of other classesWM 257.2+1.

• Establishing Churches First: Instead of setting every talent toward the lowest outcasts initially, companies of believers should be raised up to unite in the work; these churches then provide a steady force of helpers for the destituteGW 436.1+1.

• Avoiding Sensationalism: Slum work should not be glamorized or entered into for excitement; workers must throw all their energies into it with a true missionary spiritWM 251.2.

• The Role of Education: Students should be encouraged to engage in city mission work during their school years, learning to yoke up with Christ in unselfish service for others4MR 171.3+1.

Divine Recognition of the Outcast

• Adoption into God's Family: Through the crucifixion of Christ, outcasts are adopted into the family of God, becoming heirs and joint heirs with Christ7ABC 466.2.

• Gathering the Dispersed: Prophecy speaks of a time when the Lord will gather the outcasts of Israel and the sons of the stranger to His holy mountain Isaiah 56:1-8DSQ69 109.7.

• The Reward of the Lost Son: Those who come as humble penitents are received as sons, finding that there is no sea deep enough or dungeon dark enough to hide one of God's ransomed peopleARSH May 8, 1866, page 179.26+1.

• Preferential Entrance to the Kingdom: Many outcasts will grasp the hope of the gospel and enter the kingdom of heaven, while others who neglected great light will be left in darknessMH 174.2.

Helping the Outcasts Find a New Career—As God's children devote themselves to this work [restoring the fallen], many will lay hold of the hand stretched out to save them. They are constrained to turn from their evil ways. Some of the rescued ones may, through faith in Christ, rise to high places of service, and be entrusted with responsibilities in the work of saving souls. They know by experience the n...— WM 251.2 (1952)

...say, I am not fit to be helped. Leave me alone. But because of this the workers must not desist. By ministering to publicans and sinners they are co-operating with God. These poor outcasts are to hear the voice of prayer in their behalf. Take them, and lay them at the feet of Christ. Compel them to come by your kindness. You can see clearly the end which you desire them to reach. They cannot see what you see. They cannot hear Christ’s call, but you hear it, and you must act in His stead. Christ’s great love must be your law, impelling or compelling, as the case demands. You must hold fast to those you are trying to help, else victory will never be yours. Only as you can get them to look upon the Saviour hanging on the cross, in His inexpressible love, will they, as they become sane, make the kingdom of heaven their choice. When they do this, the goal of your endeavor is reached, for Christ’s righteousness goes before you, and they are clothed with the wedding garment. There must be appointed over these outcasts those who watch for souls as they that must give an account. Those who have decided to make an effort to live for Christ must have the weakened willpower carefully guided, closely guarded. Be sure that they have work to do. They have lost their manhood and womanhood, and this they must win back— 14LtMs, Ms 19, 1899, par. 29

Thus, through the crucifixion of Christ, human beings are reconciled to God. Christ adopts the outcasts, and they become His special care, members of the family of God, because they have accepted His Son as their Saviour. To them is given power to become the sons of ...— 7ABC 466.2 (1970)

Discovered by Medical Missionary Work—I have been instructed that the medical missionary work will discover, in the very depths of degradation, men who, though they have given themselves up to intemperate, dissolute habits, will respond to the right kind of labor. But they need to be recognized and encouraged. Firm, patient, earnest effort will be required in order to lift them up. They cannot restore themselves. They may hear Christ's call, but their ears are too dull to take in its meaning; their eyes are too blind to see anything good in store for them. They are dead in trespasses and sins. Yet even these are not to be excluded from the gospel feast. They are to receive the invitation: “Come.” Though they may feel unworthy, the Lord says: “Compel them to come in.” Listen to no excuse. By love and kindness lay right hold of them.... This work, properly co...— WM 247.1 (1952)

...ssionary work to the third angel's message. But the right arm is not to become the whole body. The work of seeking the outcasts is important, but it is not to become the great burden of our mission— GCDB March 2, 1899, par. 13 (1891)

...f men will harden under rebuke, but they cannot withstand the love expressed toward them in Christ. We should bid the sinner not to feel himself an outcast from God. Bid the sinner look to Christ, who alone can heal the soul leprous with sin. Reveal to the despera...— AUCR June 1, 1902, par. 4 (1898)

Many are indeed guilty of the sin of neglect and the mismanagement of the Lord’s moral vineyard2MR 283.1+1. This neglect has brought a condition into the church that eclipses the holy interests of God’s work, dimming spiritual discernment and allowing a spirit of criticism to take rootChS 38.3.

Evidences of Mismanagement

• Neglect of Specific Fields: The Southern field in America has been touched only with "the tips of our fingers," remaining a neglected and barren portion of the vineyard despite years of instruction8T 60.3+2.

• Inequality of Facilities: There is a selfish desire to multiply advantages and "pile building upon building" in localities already well-supplied, while other fields are left in destitution1MR 232.1+2.

• Unfaithful Stewardship of Means: Money and capabilities have been diverted into wrong channels or buried in worldly enterprises and land speculation rather than being used to advance the causeChL 3.1+2.

• Robbing the Laborer: Mismanagement is seen when those in responsible positions reveal a grasping spirit, extorting maximum labor for minimum wages, which God records as unfaithful stewardship20MR 387.4+1.

The Role of Leadership and Parents

• Institutional Failure: Many institutions have been enfeebled by managers who have not kept pace with their Leader, causing the "whole body" to become sick through miscalculationChL 3.1+1.

• Neglect of the Home: Parents who fail to rule their homes wisely or who counteract each other's discipline are guilty of mismanagement that results in their children being lost to the cause of GodCG 182.2+2.

• Ministerial Neglect: Ministers often neglect to teach the people their duty regarding tithes and offerings because they fear displeasing them, which the Lord calls unfaithful stewardshipPaM 259.3+1.

The Consequences of Neglect

• Accountability in Judgment: Every soul who neglects the least duty in the vineyard is registered as "found wanting" in the books of heaven2MR 283.1+1.

• Reproach Upon God: By allowing fellow beings to remain in bondage and want, stewards allow Satan to reproach God, making it seem as though He is indifferent to the suffering of His childrenCS 48.3+1.

• Loss of Souls: When the work is neglected or mismanaged, souls for whom Christ died are left to perish, and their blood will be required at the hand of the unfaithful stewardChS 90.4+2.

A Call to Restoration

The Lord calls for a thorough self-examination and a spiritual awakening in every institutionPUR July 3, 1902, par. 10. We are to take up the work "anywhere and everywhere," starting with what is nearest to our own doorsGW92 336.2+1. All must be willing to take their place in the vineyard and cultivate every neglected corner, for the night cometh when no man can workGCB April 1, 1899, par. 8+1. "Therefore shall ye observe all my statutes, and all my judgments, and do them: I am the LORD" Leviticus 19:37. 🍇

Matthew 13

1 The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side.

2 And great multitudes were gathered together to him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore.

3 And he spoke many things to them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;

4 And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up:

5 Some fell on stony places, where they had not much earth: and immediately they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth:

6 And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.

7 And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them:

8 But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundred times, some sixty times, some thirty times.

9 Who has ears to hear, let him hear.

10 And the disciples came, and said to him, Why speak you to them in parables?

11 He answered and said to them, Because it is given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.

12 For whoever has, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whoever has not, from him shall be taken away even that he has.

13 Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.

14 And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, which says, By hearing you shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing you shall see, and shall not perceive:

15 For this people’s heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.

16 But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear.

17 For truly I say to you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which you see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which you hear, and have not heard them.

18 Hear you therefore the parable of the sower.

19 When any one hears the word of the kingdom, and understands it not, then comes the wicked one, and catches away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.

20 But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that hears the word, and immediately with joy receives it;

21 Yet has he not root in himself, but endures for a while: for when tribulation or persecution rises because of the word, by and by he is offended.

22 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that hears the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful.

23 But he that received seed into the good ground is he that hears the word, and understands it; which also bears fruit, and brings forth, some an hundred times, some sixty, some thirty.

24 Another parable put he forth to them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened to a man which sowed good seed in his field:

25 But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way.

26 But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also.

27 So the servants of the householder came and said to him, Sir, did not you sow good seed in your field? from where then has it tares?

28 He said to them, An enemy has done this. The servants said to him, Will you then that we go and gather them up?

29 But he said, No; lest while you gather up the tares, you root up also the wheat with them.

30 Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather you together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn.

31 Another parable put he forth to them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field:

32 Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof.

33 Another parable spoke he to them; The kingdom of heaven is like to leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.

34 All these things spoke Jesus to the multitude in parables; and without a parable spoke he not to them:

35 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world.

36 Then Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the house: and his disciples came to him, saying, Declare to us the parable of the tares of the field.

37 He answered and said to them, He that sows the good seed is the Son of man;

38 The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one;

39 The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels.

40 As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world.

41 The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity;

42 And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.

43 Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who has ears to hear, let him hear.

44 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like to treasure hid in a field; the which when a man has found, he hides, and for joy thereof goes and sells all that he has, and buys that field.

45 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like to a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls:

46 Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.

47 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like to a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind:

48 Which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away.

49 So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just,

50 And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.

51 Jesus says to them, Have you understood all these things? They say to him, Yes, Lord.

52 Then said he to them, Therefore every scribe which is instructed to the kingdom of heaven is like to a man that is an householder, which brings forth out of his treasure things new and old.

53 And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these parables, he departed there.

54 And when he was come into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished, and said, From where has this man this wisdom, and these mighty works?

55 Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brothers, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas?

56 And his sisters, are they not all with us? From where then has this man all these things?

57 And they were offended in him. But Jesus said to them, A prophet is not without honor, save in his own country, and in his own house.

58 And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief.

The presence of tares among the wheat is the result of a deliberate act by Satan, who improves every opportunity to scatter error and false principles while God's servants are in a state of spiritual negligence or sleepPH159 143.1+2. This work of the enemy is not merely a natural occurrence but a calculated effort to injure the cause of Christ, misrepresent the work of salvation, and cause God to be dishonored by bringing into the church those who bear His name but deny His characterCOL 71.1+1.

The Origin and Nature of the Tares

• The Author of Evil: Neither God nor His angels ever sowed a seed that would produce a tare; they are always sown by the devil, the enemy of God and manCOL 70.3.

• Fruit of Error: While the good seed represents the "children of the kingdom" born of the truth, the tares represent "children of the wicked one" who embody false principles and errorCOL 70.3+1.

• Imitation of Truth: In the East, the tares (often identified as bearded darnel) closely resemble wheat until the fruit appearsLTJMB3 356.1+1. Similarly, sinners making a pretension of piety mingle with true followers, and their semblance of Christianity is calculated to deceive16MR 271.2+1.

• Result of the Curse: No noxious or poisonous plants were placed in the Lord's original garden; they sprang up only after Adam and Eve sinned, as the enemy used methods of "amalgamation" to corrupt the earth1BC 1086.2+2.

Why the Tares Are Permitted to Grow

• Danger of Uprooting the Wheat: When the servants asked to gather the tares, the householder forbade it, saying, "Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them" Matthew 13:28-29. In their early stages, the roots of the tares and wheat become so intertwined that human hands cannot separate them without damaging the good grainLTJMB3 356.1+1.

• Human Fallibility: Finite man is likely to misjudge character; Christ did not place man on the judgment seat because he would, in fallible judgment, root up those worthy of sympathy while passing by others who deserved decided dealingRH January 3, 1893, par. 9+1.

• Development of Character: Just as God spared Satan for ages to fully develop his character so that the universe could see his true nature, the tares are allowed to remain until the harvest so their true fruit is manifested to allCOL 72.2+2.

The Danger of Spiritual Slumber

• Negligence Leads to Iniquity: The enemy sowed the tares specifically "while men slept" Matthew 13:25. If faithfulness and vigilance had been preserved by God's servants, the enemy would not have had such a favorable opportunity to scatter errorPH159 143.1+2.

• A Warning to Watchmen: It is the unwatchful, sleeping condition of the church's watchmen that implicates them in the guilt of the evils that spring up16MR 3.2.

• Modern Applications: Satan continues this work today by sowing tares in the hearts of children through parental neglect, and in the minds of youth through worldly associations and "trashy" literature10MR 323.1+2.

The Final Separation at the Harvest

• The Harvest is the End: The period of commingling lasts only until "the harvest," which is defined as "the end of the world" Matthew 13:39.

• The Reapers are Angels: The work of separation is committed to the angels, who never make a mistake; they will gather the tares into bundles to be burned and store the wheat in the heavenly garner16MR 271.2+1.

• The Remedied Field: At the second coming of Christ, the work of the enemy in sowing tares will be forever remediedAERS 246.1+1. Then the righteous will "shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father" Matthew 13:43.