Sabbath-School Worker
February 1, 1892
The Object of Sabbath-School Work
Christian teachers and students are responsible to God for the gracious privileges they enjoy; for they are to be laborers together with God, bearing a decided testimony to the power of God's saving grace in the sight of earth and heaven. The efficiency and influence of the workers for God will be in proportion to their moral elevation and purity. The true Christian teachers will discern the import of the Sabbath-school lesson, for their understanding will be opened to comprehend the gospel. They will let their light shine to those who have taken no interest in the precious rays of truth. The door of the heart must be opened to receive the light shining from the word. One Christian student who receives the word of God may be the means of blessing his fellow-students. He can be a benefit to others, if, patiently and kindly and interestingly, he will go over the lesson with those who do not take an interest in the things of God, and will make his instruction simple and definite. This kind of work will require the exercise of wisdom from above, that the worker may approach those who most need help in an acceptable manner, and lead them to Christ, where the wants of the soul may be satisfied. SSW February 1, 1892, par. 1
The Psalmist says, “The entrance of thy word giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” If, through the grace of Christ, you can be the means whereby an entrance can be obtained for the word of God in the heart, your work will not be in vain. When a youth is converted, do not leave him in idleness; give him something to do in the vineyard of the Master. According to his ability, let him be employed, for the Lord has given to every man his work. Let us co-operate with the Lord in every line, and set in operation every means whereby the powers of those connected with the school may be developed for usefulness. The inhabitants of the world are ranging themselves under the banners of the two leaders of earth's inhabitants. Christ, the prince of life, and Satan, the prince of darkness, are urging men and women and youth into service. It is the work of the Christian teacher and scholar to make earnest efforts that the ranks of Christ may be continually increased, to invite every soul to stand under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel. SSW February 1, 1892, par. 2
Lessons should be taught in the Sabbath school that will shed light into the chambers of heart and mind. And that this may be accomplished, the teachers must be under the influence of the Holy Spirit, that all selfishness may be subdued, that no hasty word may be spoken, no inconsiderate action may be performed, but that the grace of God may be manifested as working with human effort for the salvation of souls. This should be the great end of Sabbath-school work. The Sabbath school should not be made a place for controversy; it is not the place to make differences of opinion manifested. Let all this kind of work be kept out of the school, and let harmony be maintained. If ideas are advanced that are questioned by members of the school, let not a combative spirit arise, and discussion and controversy follow. SSW February 1, 1892, par. 3
(Concluded in next number.)