The Church: Its Organization, Order and Discipline

Effects of Following Worldly Policy

In “Special Testimony,” No. I, page 35, published in 1892, we are warned in these words of a danger liable to arise: “Formality, worldly wisdom, worldly caution, worldly policy, will appear to many to be the very power of God, but when accepted, it stands as an obstacle to prevent God’s light, in warnings, reproof, and counsel from coming to the world.” COOD 153.1

Some of the results of following “worldly policy,” showing how it keeps the light from the world, is seen in an article in the Review of July 9, 1895: “There are a few who devise, plan and work; but the great mass of the people do not lift their hands to do anything for fear of being repulsed, for fear that others will regard them as out of their place. Many have willing hands and hearts, but they are discouraged from putting their energies into the work. They are criticized if they try to do anything, and finally allow their talents to lie dormant for fear of criticism, when if they were encouraged to use them, the work would be advanced, and workers would be added to the force of missionaries.... A few are selected to hold responsible positions, and the work is divided up among these brethren. Many more who ought to have an opportunity to develop into efficient workers for the Lord, are left in the shadow.” COOD 153.2