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The Holy Spirit Makes Their Work Effective

Through the Holy Spirit, signs and wonders would confirm the disciples’ testimony. Not only the apostles, but those who received their message would work miracles. “In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.” Mark 16:17, 18. HH 376.6

At that time unprincipled people did not hesitate to poison those who stood in the way of their ambition. Jesus knew that many would think they were doing God a service to put His witnesses to death. For this reason, He promised them protection from this danger. HH 376.7

And He promised a new gift: the disciples were to preach among other nations, and they would receive power to speak other tongues. The apostles and their associates were unschooled men, yet through the outpouring of the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost their speech, whether in their own language or a foreign tongue, became pure and accurate, both in word and accent. HH 377.1

In this way Christ gave His disciples full provision to carry out the work, and He took on Himself the responsibility for its success. “Go to all nations,” He instructed them. “Go to the farthest part of the habitable globe, but know that My presence will be there. Work in faith and confidence.” HH 377.2

The Savior’s commission includes all believers to the end of time. It is fatal to suppose that the work of saving others depends on the ordained minister alone. For this work the church was established, and all who take its vows pledge themselves to be co-workers with Christ. Whatever our calling in life, our first interest should be to win others for Christ. We may not be able to speak to congregations, but we can work for individuals. Near and far-off there are people weighed down by guilt. It is not hardship or poverty that degrades humanity. It is guilt, wrongdoing. Christ wants His servants to minister to sin-sick hearts. HH 377.3