Mind, Character, and Personality Vol. 2 - Second Advent Revival

1888. (Ev 155). {2MCP 498.1}
Strife Among Brethren Delays Second Advent.--For forty years did unbelief,
murmuring, and rebellion shut out ancient Israel from the land of Canaan. . . . It is the
unbelief, the worldliness, unconsecration, and strife among the Lord's professed people
that have kept us in this world of sin and sorrow so many years.--MS 4, 1883. (Ev 696.)
{2MCP 498.2}
No Time for Contention and Strife.--Men and women professing to serve the Lord
are content to occupy their time and attention with matters of little importance. They are
content to be at variance with one another. If they were consecrated to the work of the
Master, they would not be striving and contending like a family of unruly children. Every
hand would be engaged in service. Every one would be standing at his post of duty,
working with heart and soul as a missionary of the cross of Christ. . . . The workers
would carry with them into their service the prayers and sympathies of an awakened
church. They would receive their directions from Christ and would find no time for
contention or strife.--RH, Sept 10, 1903. {2MCP 498.3}
Let not controversy arise over trifles. The spirit of love and the grace of our Lord
Jesus Christ will bind heart to heart, if each will open the windows of the heart
heavenward and close them earthward.--Lt 183, 1899.
499 {2MCP 498.4}
Controversy to Be Laid to Rest.--The power of the grace of God will do more for
the soul than controversy will do in a lifetime. By the power of the truth how many things
might be adjusted and controversies hoary with age find quietude in the admission of
better ways. The great, grand principle, "Peace on earth and good will to men," will be
far better practiced when those who believe in Christ are laborers together with God.
Then all the little things which some are ever harping upon, which are not authoritatively
settled by the Word of God, will not be magnified into important matters.--Lt 183, 1899.
{2MCP 499.1}
Controversy Excites Self-defense.--In His treatment of Thomas, Jesus gave a
lesson for His followers. His example shows how we should treat those whose faith is
weak and who make their doubts prominent. Jesus did not overwhelm Thomas with
reproach, nor did He enter into controversy with him. He revealed Himself to the
doubting one. Thomas had been most unreasonable in dictating the conditions of his
faith, but Jesus, by His generous love and consideration, broke down all the barriers.
Unbelief is seldom overcome by controversy. It is rather put upon self-defense and
finds new support and excuse. But let Jesus, in His love and mercy, be revealed as the
crucified Saviour, and from many once unwilling lips will be heard the acknowledgment
of Thomas, "My Lord and my God."--DA 808 (1898). {2MCP 499.2}
To Sick Speak No Word of Controversy.--At the bedside of the sick no word of
creed or controversy should be spoken. Let the sufferer be pointed to the One who is
willing to save all that come to Him in faith. Earnestly, tenderly strive to help the soul
that is hovering between life and death.--MH 120 (1905). {2MCP 499.3}