Ellen Chat Conversation

The preaching of the Word is a divinely ordained method for delivering God's warning message to the world (19MR 153.2). This work is of unmistakable importance, as the presentation of sacred truth decides the destiny of souls and requires a deep sense of responsibility from those who watch for souls as they that must give an account (2SAT 73.4). The ministry of the living voice is intended to be a powerful agency, marked by the manifestations of the Holy Spirit and accompanied by compassionate deeds that exemplify gospel principles (15MR 321.1).

While the importance of the ministry is to be fully understood and appreciated, it is not the only means God uses to enlighten the world (AUCR September 1, 1900, par. 3). Preaching actually encompasses more than just sermonizing; it is a work that should not be confined to the ministry alone, as many church members remain weak because they do not carry the light to their neighbors (YI June 17, 1897, par. 2). Furthermore, because many people do not have the privilege of hearing the truth from a delegated preacher, the printed page is essential to carry the message where the living preacher cannot go (2TT 532.1).

The relationship between the preacher and the "silent messengers" of the press is one of essential cooperation (CM 100.2). Even when a minister faithfully presents the message, listeners often struggle to retain all that they have heard; therefore, publications are necessary to root and ground them in the truth and protect them against error (Ev 161.3). In many cases, the circulation of books and papers can accomplish a greater work in confirming souls than the ministry of the word alone, as the same Holy Spirit and the same ministry of angels attend both the printed truth and the living preacher (MC 8.2).

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The presentation of truth should never be dull or lifeless, as the sacred responsibility of the watchman is to awaken those who are in danger. Because the Lord has enlightened His people regarding the solemn events coming upon the earth, there is a divine obligation to enlighten others rather than remaining unconcerned or silent (1888 505.2). This work requires an active, energetic spirit that seeks to get the truth before the people in a way that commands attention, especially as the time of Christ's return draws near (WM 79.3). While the message must be engaging, there is a specific danger in seeking after the "sensational" or the "odd" simply to gratify a desire for something new. Some may attempt to bring in strange doctrines or fallacies to beguile souls, presenting them as special light when they are actually deceptions (1SM 41.2).

True interest is not found in "new and strange doctrines," but in the clear, straight messages that God has provided to prepare a people to stand in the last days (PC 139.2). The most effective way to maintain interest without falling into fanaticism is to ensure the message is grounded in the evidences of God’s Spirit. When the Spirit of God opens the mind to the great truths of His Word, the resulting presentation of those "scenes of the past and the future" carries a natural weight and power (3SM 48). Preachers must be careful not to give the work a "mold" of human excitement or imagination, which leads to fanaticism, but should instead rely on the timeless principles and genuine religious experiences that God has revealed (2SM 86.3).

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