Table of Contents. Sabbath the 15th April. Sunday the 16th April. Monday the 17th April. Tuesday the 18th April. Wednesday the 19th April

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2 - Bringing Hope To Every Home Table of Contents Publishing Week Greetings...1 Sabbath the 15th April Reflections on the work...2 Sunday the 16th April LORD TRANSFORM ME THROUGH THE PRINTED PAGE!...5 Monday the 17th April THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED...8 Tuesday the 18th April THE FAITHFUL WITNESS...11 Wednesday the 19th April THE ORDAINED MESSAGE...13 Thursday the 20th April PUBLICATIONS IN THE PLAN OF GOD...16 Friday the 21st April FRONTLINE COMMANDOES...18 i

3 PUBLISHING WEEK GREETINGS April Bringing Hope To Every Home The publishing work of our Church and the birth of Adventism are almost synonymous. This is not only evident in North America and Europe, it is also seen in the life of the church in the Caribbean. On March 25, 2017 the Guyana Conference celebrated 130 years of Adventism in Guyana. It is interesting to note that that the president of the International Tract Society asked a ship captain to carry two stacks of Present Truth and just throw them on the wharf in Georgetown Guyana. When he threw them he said I have kept my word. Four years later in 1887 the first Seventh day Adventist church was organized in the Interamerica Division and it started because a man kept his promise to deliver Seventh day Adventist literature. The Adventist work in Trinidad also started this way. In 1890 William Arnold pioneered Adventism as he distributed literature in Trinidad which resulted in the first church being formed. This church in Couva now called the Pioneer SDA Church and Adventism in Trinidad had its genesis in the distribution of the Seventh day Adventist literature. The legacy of our pioneers lives on as we carry forward the work of the Publishing Ministry. While there may not be unreached countries and islands to reach through Adventist literature there are countless thousands in communities in Trinidad yet unreached that need Adventist literature. Many will not enter our churches or our crusade tents, but they will read our books and silently live out the counsels found therein. The work of literature evangelism will be the entering light to many dark spots in this socially depraved country of ours. And of course our books, periodicals and tracts have a significant role in last day events. E.G. White counsels us - Now, as never before, the great and wonderful work of this message is to be carried on. The world is to receive the light, and many will gain their knowledge of the truth through an evangelizing ministry of the word in our books and papers. Our periodicals are to be distributed by men and women of all stations and walks in life. Young and old are to act a part. These publications are to show that the end of all things is at hand. Publishing Ministry pg As we celebrate Seventh day Adventist publications in Trinidad, I urge each church to pay more attention to spreading the Message through the literature of our church. I urge everyone everywhere in our Conference to give a friend or relative, a neighbor or stranger, at least one piece of Adventist Literature during the Publishing Week April 15-21, We will bring light and hope to a dying country as we do this great work. Pastor Leslie Moses President South Caribbean Conference of SDA 1

4 Sabbath the 15th April -Bringing Hope To Every Home First reading Sabbath the 15th April Reflections on the work: Literature Ministry Based on the writings of Ellen White Publishing World Wide Day By Dr. Erwin Gonzalez Scripture Reading: Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. INTRODUCTION: Thomas H. Davis and wife travelled to a place of Ecuador to introduce the gospel in one of the major cities. They arrived without knowing nobody, and after much searching, found housing and immediately began to plan how to sow the Good News of salvation. In that place there was no brother whom you can trust, or references of someone known, nor any sympathizer with their convictions. With much effort, began their missionary work working as canvassers, fighting against the prejudice and catholic persecution from that place. It was difficult to settle in that place unknown to them, but they began selling books that contain the message of salvation. A few weeks later, his wife became seriously ill and died within a few days. Thomas Davis endured the hard trance of not only see the death of his beloved wife, but because of the prevailing bias in that place, he was not allowed to bury her in the cemetery of that city, because it was reserved only for Catholic believers. On that sad night, Davis had to load on his shoulder the inert body of his wife, he wrapped her with a blanket and took a shovel, and walked in that lonely path toward the valley, way to Pinillo. There he buried his wife in a place that only he and the Angels know. He did the work of the grave digger, kinsman and pastor.tthat incident was quite difficult for him to continue to sow the seed of the gospel, but after some years, he finally saw the birth, growth and flourish of the Adventist work, and he planted a church there, which today continues to grow. AN INVITATION TO THE CHURCH The Seventh Day Adventists believe that The church is God s appointed agency for the salvation of men. It was organized for service, and its mission is to carry the gospel to the world. (ChS, p. 15.1). To continue with the legacy of Christ, the Church has received this request. Ellen White says: Someone must fulfill the commission of Christ; someone must carry on the work which He began to do on earth; and the church has been given this privilege. (ChS, p. 14.1). The gospel commission is the great missionary charter of Christ s kingdom. The disciples were to work earnestly for souls, giving to all the invitation of mercy. They were not to wait for the people to come to them; they were to go to the people with their message The commission given to the disciples is given also to us. Today, as then, a crucified and risen Savior is to be uplifted before those who are without 2

5 Sabbath the 15th April - Bringing Hope To Every Home God and without hope in the world. (ChS, p.23.3). THE CANVASSING MINISTRY: An AGENT APPOINTED BY GOD Adventists have the conviction that the work of canvassing is a means to spread quickly the holy light of the present truth to the world, because He has ordained for our use the printed page. In our schools and sanitariums, in our home churches, and particularly in our annual camp meetings, we must learn to make a wise use of this precious agency. With patient diligence chosen workers must instruct our people how to approach unbelievers in a kindly, winning way and how to place in their hands literature in which the truth for this time is presented with clearness and power. Testimonies for the Church 9:86, 87. {PM 275.1} Ellen White says that The canvassing work, properly conducted, is missionary work of the highest order, and it is as good and successful a method as can be employed for placing before the people the important truths for this time. The importance of the work of the ministry is unmistakable; but many who are hungry for the bread of life have not the privilege of hearing the word from God s delegated preachers. For this reason it is essential that our publications be widely circulated. Thus the message will go where the living preacher cannot go, and the attention of many will be called to the important events connected with the closing scenes of this world s history. {CEv 5.1} PUBLISHING S WILL ILLUMINATE THE WORLD The world is to receive the light of truth through an evangelizing ministry of the word in our books and periodicals. Our publications are to show that the end of all things is at hand. The Colporteur Evangelist, 100. {ChS 146.1} They can distribute our publications, hold meetings in their homes, become acquainted with their neighbors, and invite them to come to these meetings. Thus they can let their light shine in good works. Testimonies for the Church 8:245. {ChS 178.5} THE LITERATURE EVANGELIST IS THE CHOSEN TO SPREAD THE LIGHT Since canvassing for our literature is a missionary work, it should be conducted from a missionary standpoint. Those selected as canvassers should be men and women who feel the burden of service, whose object is not to get gain, but to give light to the people {CEv 10.1} Every canvasser has positive and constant need of the angelic ministration; for he has an important work to do, a work that he cannot do in his own strength. Those who are born again, who are willing to be guided by the Holy Spirit, doing in Christ s way that which they can do, those who will work as if they could see the heavenly universe watching them, will be accompanied and instructed by holy angels, who will go before them to the dwellings of the people, preparing the way for them. Such help is far above all the advantages which expensive embellishments are supposed to give. {CEv 13.1} All who desire an opportunity for true ministry, and who will give themselves unreservedly to God, will find in the canvassing work opportunities to speak upon many things pertaining to the future, immortal life. {CEv 16.1} The intelligent, God-fearing, truth-loving canvasser should be respected; for he occupies a position equal to that of the gospel minister. {CEv 15.1} THE CHURCH AND THE IMPORTANCE OF CANVASSING 3

6 Sabbath the 15th April -Bringing Hope To Every Home We need to realize the importance of the canvassing work as one great means of finding out those who are in peril and bringing them to Christ. {CEv 19.1} The Lord desires you to be soul winners {CEv 20.1} Canvassers should remember that they are working with the Lord to save souls, and that they are to bring no commonness or cheapness into His sacred service. Manual for Canvassers, 23, 24. {CEv 91.3} Canvassers should remember that they are working with the Lord to save souls Manual for Canvassers, 23, 24. {CEv 91.3} We can enlighten the people only through the power of God. The canvassers must keep their own souls in living connection with God. Manuscript 31, {CM 107.5} THE CANVASSERS AND SUCCESS Canvassers should remember that they are working with the Lord to save souls, and that they are to bring no commonness or cheapness into His sacred service. Let the mind be filled with pure, holy thoughts, and let the words be well chosen. Hinder not the success of your work by uttering light, careless words. Manual for Canvassers, 23, 24. {CEv 91.3} Seek to impress them with the spirit of true missionary work and with the qualifications necessary to ensure success. The love of Jesus in the soul will lead the canvasser to feel it a privilege to labor to diffuse light. He will study, plan, and pray over the matter. Testimonies for the Church 5:403 (1885). {CM 27.1} CONCLUSION The Bible says: After this I saw another angel coming down from heaven. He had great authority, and the earth was illuminated by his splendor. Revelation. 18: 1 (NIV) In the year 1902, God revealed to Ellen White a message related to the message of another angel and she stated that, I am bidden to say to our publishing houses: Lift up the standard; lift it up higher. Proclaim the third angel s message, that it may be heard by all the world. Let it be seen that here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. Revelation 14:12. Let our literature give the message as a witness to all the world. Testimonies for the Church 9:61. {ChS 148.3} Do you want to join the army of the church canvassers to be a missionary of the Lord? Dr. Erwin Gonzalez Publishing Director Inter-America Division 4

7 Sunday the 16th April - Bringing Hope To Every Home Second Reading Sunday the 16th April LORD TRANSFORM ME THROUGH THE PRINTED PAGE! By Pastor Kern Tobias There are some powerful statements that warrant our consideration. One of them is we are what we eat. It is also said, We are what we think. Of great importance though is the statement that we are what we read. It is important that good books be readily available to everyone so that it will be possible for people to become good. In 2 Kings Chapter 22, King Josiah was happy to recover the book of the law which was lost for a very long time. (Read verses 8 to Chapter 23: 5.) This sad story emphasizes the calamity that can come to God s people if the Printed Page is ignored and neglected. That is why the words of the Psalmist is so powerful which states Thy word have I hid in my heart, that I might not sin against Thee (Ps. 119:11). God is concerned about the transformation of the people who He has created. In Romans 12:2 He says: Be not conformed to this world; but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God. Through a renewal of the mind, we experience reformation in the way we live, interact and serve. The mind must be renewed for him. We must see to it that there is a saving change wrought in us, and that it be continued and carried on at all cost and in all circumstances. Conversion, which involves justification (Our title for heaven) and sanctification (Our fitness for heaven), is the renewing of the mind, a change not only of the substance, but also of the qualities of the soul. Having a renewed mind is the same as having a new heart and a new spirit new dispositions and inclinations, new sympathies and desires; the understanding is enlightened, the conscience is softened, the thoughts are rectified; the will is bowed to the will of God, and the affections are made spiritual and heavenly. The human is not what he/she was because the old things are passed away and all things are become new; he/she acts from new principles, by new rules, with new designs. The mind is the acting and ruling part of the human, so that the renewing of the mind is the renewing of the whole man, for out of it are the issues of life. (Prov. 4:23). The progress of sanctification, dying to sin more and more and living to righteousness more and more, is the carrying on of this renewing work, till it be perfected in glory. 5

8 Sunday the 16th April-Bringing Hope To Every Home This is called the transformation. It is like putting on a new shape and figure. The transfiguration of Christ is viewed in the same context (Matt. 17:2), when He put on a heavenly glory, which made his face to shine like the sun. The same context is implied in 2 Cor. 3:18; where we are said to be changed into the same image from glory to glory. This transformation is here pressed as a duty; not that we can work such a change ourselves. It is God s work, Ezek. 11:19; 36:26, 27. But be you transformed, that is, use the means which God hath appointed and ordained for it. The means that God has appointed for the continuous transformation of His people is the Printed Page that is provided by the Literature Evangelists. Sister White states, The book work should be the means of quickly giving the sacred light of present truth to the world. The publications that come forth from our presses today are to be of such a character as to strengthen every pin and pillar of the faith that was established by the word of God and by the revelations of His spirit. The publications sent forth from our printing houses are to prepare a people to meet God (Colporteur Ministry page 3). She explained further, The world is to receive the light of the truth through the evangelizing ministry of the word in our books and periodicals. From our books and papers bright beams of light are to shine forth to enlighten the world in regard to present truth (Colporteur Ministry page 5). Lord Transform Me is both a personal Prayer and a catalyst for each member to be involved in the life and Mission of the Church. The following emphases provide a synopsis of this Plan: The Biblical call in Romans 12:2 for each member to be transformed and to dedicate their whole life to God through the power of the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:4-7). There should be: Transformation in the personal life of each member Transformation in the way leaders lead Transformation in the way followers follow Transformation in input to experience transformation in outcomes Transformation in every area of Church life and service The Five Components of Lord Transform Me Be Transformed and Live by accepting Christ and surrendering fully to the Holy Spirit. Explore and Learn by studying the Bible and books that are sold by the Colporteurs. Connect and Share by making friends with others and sharing with them the written word. Proclaim and Reap by preaching the gospel and encouraging others to accept Christ. Conserve and Disciple those who accept Christ by being the friends with them and teach them to witness about the love of Jesus. 6

9 Sunday the 16th April - Bringing Hope To Every Home I challenge you to continue to study God s Word and other truth-filled books and share them with your neighbors and friends. May God bless you richly! Dr. Kern Tobias President Caribbean Union Conference Former Publishing Director South Caribbean Conference

10 Monday the 17th April-Bringing Hope To Every Home Third Reading Monday the 17th April THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED By Margaret Chrysostom Scripture Text: Mathew 7: KJV 13Enter ye in at the strait gate, for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:14because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. The Literature Ministry can be likened to the strait gate and narrow way that leads to eternal life. The books that the Literature Ministry expose persons to are able to lead many to eternal life, but only few in number choose this path, and consequently, not as many people find it. This ministry from its beginning was established through sacrifice and self-denial. According to Ellen G. White in her book Publishing Ministry p. 26 Some of the men of experience and piety, who led out in this work, who denied self and did not hesitate to sacrifice for its success, are now sleeping in the grave. They were God s appointed channels, His representative men, through whom the principles of spiritual life were communicated to the church. They had an experience of highest value. They could not be bought or sold. Their purity and devotion and self-sacrifice, their living connection with God, were blessed to the up building of the work. Literature Evangelism is far more important than many in the church currently estimate, a ministry far too many of us have neglected to remember, yet it will grow in importance as circumstances narrow the path to the final days of earth s history. Ellen G. White states in C.M. pg. 8, If there is one work more important than another, it is that of getting our publications before the public, thus leading them to search the scriptures. When church members realize the importance of the circulation of our literature, they will devote more time to this work. Paper, tracts and books will be placed in the homes of the people, to preach the gospel in their several lines. Pastor Lemuel Olan Jimenez in his book The Printed Prophets, states that there are at least seven great reasons why the literature work is important to the mission of the church. 1. Literature awakens understanding and leads to investigation It s another way of saying that literature can perform the role of sentinels whose mission is to awaken the people and alert them of imminent danger. It encourages them to search the scriptures. While our ministers preach the word faithfully, not all that is said will be retained by the listener. Hence the reason the printed page is 8

11 Monday the 17th April - Bringing Hope To Every Home important in awaking the truth for this time in the minds of the people and firmly establishing and settling them in truth thus protecting them against error. 2. Literature aids in sending a warning message to the world Ellen White states, All who consecrate themselves to God to work as canvassers are assisting to give the last message of warning to the world. 3. Literature moulds the mind it reaches This agency can reach and influence the public mind as no other means can. Every day we can testify that these silent messengers are influencing minds and changing lives of people all around the world. 4. Literature teaches and indoctrinates Roman 15:4 KJV states that whatsoever things were written aforetime (before) were written for our learning that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. This text implies that the role of the written word is to teach and to give us hope. Ellen White reminds us Our publications have a most sacred work to do in making clear, simple and plain the spiritual basis of our faith. The church should be impressed with the importance of bringing before the world as fast as possible the books necessary for their enlightenment. 5. Literature leads people to understand the truth better The Lord has sent His message to the world in books that contain the truth for the last days. Ellen White reminds us that the great object of our publications is to exalt God and to call men s attention to the living truths of His word. Colporteur Ministry p Literature saves Many of us can trace our first conviction to the reading of the printed page. Therefore, our books containing truths that lead to Christ have great potential for winning souls. Ellen White states in Colporteur Ministry, p. 150 Our publications are now sowing the gospel seed, and are instrumental in bringing as many souls to Christ as the preached word. Whole churches have been raised up as a result of their circulation. 7. Literature settles and confirms believers in the truth. It is very important to settle new believers in the truth and our literature helps to establish them into the truth. In these last days in which we are living there are so many false doctrines turning away the minds of people from the truth and as a church we need to safeguard our members by encouraging them to read our publications. According to Ellen G. White In enlightening and confirming souls in the truth, the publications will do a far greater work than can be accomplished by the ministry of word alone. Ibid. p Publishing Ministry, p.398, 394 states, There needs to be a waking up among God s people, that His work may be carried forward with power. We need the baptism of the Holy Spirit. We need to understand that God will add to the ranks of His people men of ability and influence, who are to act their part in warning the world. Much more prayer, much more Christlikeness, much more conformity to God s will, is to be brought into God s work. Outward show, an 9

12 Monday the 17th April-Bringing Hope To Every Home extravagant outlay of means, will not accomplish the work to be done. Many are grasping for a breath of life from heaven. They will recognise the gospel when it is brought to them in the way that God designs it to be brought. God is calling us to carry His last day message to the citizens of this crime infested nation. There are so many sad, lonely, angry and hurting, people. Those who feel so hopeless. We can bring to them peace of mind, happiness, joy and hope through a tract, magazine or a book. Each of us is called to share the word, this is one sure way to get the truth across and I encourage you today to become a part of this ministry and together, with God s blessings, let us go forth and proclaim His word as we aid in the preparation of Heaven and give the last warning to the world. God s blessings to you as you join Him in this great, life altering ministry. Come take this journey with us on the road less travelled. Margaret Chrysostom National Manager IADPA Bookstores Trinidad & Tobago, Grenada Former Publishing Director SCC Associate Publishing Director Publishing Director Reference E.G White, Colporteur Ministry p.8, 138, Lemuel Olan Jimenez, (2013) The Printed Prophets, p E. G. White, (1983) Publishing Ministry, p.26, 394,

13 Fourth Reading Tuesday the 18th April THE FAITHFUL WITNESS By Pastor Clyde Thomas 11 Tuesday the 18th April - Bringing Hope To Every Home John, the Revelator, who also wrote the gospel of John, calls John the Baptist a witness and also said that John bore witness of the light meaning Jesus, that all men through him might believe John 1:7 (Thompson Chain Reference Study Bible) Besides these two testimonies of the herald of the messiah s imminent first coming, the Revelator also noted that John was sent from God, and that the one on whom the Spirit of God should descend as a dove, was the one who would baptize with the Holy Ghost and the one whom John should baptize. - Matt 3:13-15, I bid., John1:33 Ellen G white in her book, The Desire of Ages, said that the parents of John, Zacharias and Elizabeth, taught John about his life and work as the forerunner for the messiah. She remarked that John also studied the Old Testament prophecies about the birth, life and death of Christ. Desire of Ages: pp John Was A Faithful Witness As John studied the prophecies of his mission and that of the Messiah, so the faithful Literature Evangelist minister should study and know his work and his product, that he would be confident and convincing in his presentations, as John the Baptist was in his preaching in Jerusalem and Judea. The Faithful Witness should know his Lord and the Lord s mission for him. Those who engage in the canvassing work should give themselves unreservedly to Christ Colporteur Ministry: p. 47. The Publications sent forth from our printing houses are to prepare a people to meet God. Throughout the world, they are to do the same work that was done by John the Baptist for the Jewish nation - I bid.., p. 3 The Faithful Literature Minister Should Know His Product. In an instant, the Literature Evangelist should be able to turn to the exact chapter and page and satisfy the customer s need. I experienced this while canvassing with a colporteur, one day, as a mother was struggling with a screaming child that was almost uncontrollable. I took the Desire of Ages, one of the books we canvassed that day, and opened to the chapter: Blessing the Children and read: Jesus knows the burden of every mother s heart. Let mothers come to Jesus with their perplexities, they will find grace sufficient to aid them in the management of their children Desire of Ages: p. 512 In the daily life as Christian, we cross the paths of so many individuals, that we cannot truthfully say we have no time to distribute literature. We can rationalize, we can bow to our own fears and negligence, we can surrender to shyness and unbelief, or we can go to God in prayer and ask Him for the boldness that comes when the Holy Spirit rules in a Christian s life, to become involved in God s plan of getting the message to the world.

14 Tuesday the 18th April-Bringing Hope To Every Home The Faithful Witness should know thoroughly a good canvass and how to use it effectively: Canvassers should, thoroughly, acquaint themselves with the book they are handling and be able to readily call attention to the important chapters Colporteur Ministry: p. 55 Let a class of canvassers be fitted up by thorough instruction and drill, to handle the publications that shall come forth from the press I bid.., p. 55. The Faithful Witness should know his client as far as possible Canvassing with a colporteur in Mason Hall, Tobago, one day, I believed that I did a good canvass to a retired home economics teacher, but failed to secure the order. We were about to leave the home, when the colporteur took out a children s book and said to the teacher, why not try this lovely book for your little girl. Without another word, the economics teacher purchased the volume. Astounded, as we left the house, I asked the colporteur, How is it she purchased that volume The colporteur said: I know she has a little girl who is the apple of her eyes. The colporteur knew her client. The Faithful Witness called to Highways and Byways The distribution of literature can be accomplished by each and every one of us. God is calling us to go to the shopping areas, our place of employment, street corners and public places, our friends, neighbours and our families. The things of this world are soon to perish. We are God s spokespersons. We are to speak the truth in love to perishing souls. We are to go out into the highways, hilltops, valleys, across streams, rivers, jungles, forests and hedges and compel them to come into the house of the Lord. When Christ dwells in the heart, the faithful witness will go out giving the invitation to the marriage supper of the Lamb. People will seldom seek us out. We are to meet them where they are. There is another field of labour. Humbler, it may be, but it is fully as promising. It is found in the homes of the lowly and the mansions of the great. The Faithful Witness is always on the go for the Lord, never murmuring nor shrinking from the trials that beset the soul, but looking heaven ward to the author and finisher of their faith You have the opportunity to become a Faithful Witness, to bring hope into every home for Christ Jesus, Get Involved. Pastor Clyde Thomas (Retired) Publishing Director SCC Publishing Director CARU President Tobago Mission Pastor USC

15 Fifth Reading Wednesday the 19th April THE ORDAINED MESSAGE By Ardalene Bess Wednesday the 19th April - Bringing Hope To Every Home PSALM 68:11 The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it. The Beginning:-Spread the printed page like the leaves of autumn so, that it will go clear around the world like streams of light. This statement, made since 1848, given by the inspiration of God, has truly found its way around the universe. How can this continue to go around the globe, if we all leave out the means by which it should reach upon the hilltops, valleys and plains? God has called us to be trailblazers for Him, sacrificing the love of comfort for the rugged way. The Canvassing work, properly conducted, is Missionary work of the highest order, and it is as good and successful a method as can be employed for placing before the people the important truths for this time 1 The work given to the Seventh day Adventist church, under the leadership of Christ Jesus, and in collaborative effort with the Holy Spirit, will empower us to carry the message as we bring hope into every home. Publishing Before Organisation. - From 1849 to 1860 the publishing ministry of this no-name church prospered and grew. The silent preacher reached into homes and did its heaven-sent work of converting the souls of men and women. The Publishing Ministry give birth to the church, being fully established with its own building, equipment and distribution plan before the church was even organised and named. 2 History Table 1: Ellen White s publishing vision James White printed his first paper, The Present Truth 1850 The Second Advent Review and Sabbath Herald was published 1852 A small hand printing press was purchased and a publishing house was set up 1855 The press was moved to Battle Creek, Michigan, in its own building and steam press 1860 The naming of the Seventh-day Adventist Church 1863 Organization of the General Conference. A Work Ordained of God. - Literature Evangelism is an ordained work of heaven, it is the means by which men and women will present before the people the light contained in our books. The Literature Evangelist is impressed with the importance of bringing before the world as fast and far as possible the books that are necessary for their spiritual enlightenment and education. This is the very work the Lord will have us do at this time. The efforts of the canvassers and the work that they do, cannot be lightly estimated, for it is God s ordained 13

16 Wednesday the 19th April -Bringing Hope To Every Home work.3 We have the word of God to show that the end of the world is near, and we cannot sit idle and allow the people to languish in their state of degeneracy. The world is to be warned, and as never before we must co-operate with Christ, to give the message of hope. The work has not, of late been infused with the energy and importance by which it must be taken to the world. Men and women must make this ordained work their speciality. Many have been discouraged from taking up this sacred mission, and some have even been encouraged to engage in other labour. The importance of this work is fully equal to that of the ministry. The living preacher and the silent messenger are both required for the accomplishment of the great work before us. 4 You Were a Long Time Coming.- Bruce Borgersen, now a retired pastor, was teaching church school in Glens Falls, New York in fall of 1967, when the church scheduled an evangelistic series in an air bubble. On the designated Sabbath afternoon church members planned to distribute flyers announcing the meeting. Bruce was assigned a carload of persons, but no one showed up, so he went alone knocking on doors and leaving flyers. When he rang the bell at one house, there was no response. He rang again and waited. Finally he heard a weak voice saying, Wait a minute. Soon a seventy year old lady came to the door. Bruce gave her the flyer and told her about the meetings. She seemed interested but said, I have no transportation. Bruce suggested that he and his wife would take her to the meetings. She then told him the following story: When she was sixteen years old, a colporteur sold a copy of Bible Readings to her mother. For years they didn t read it. After her parents died, she became interested in the book, and studied it carefully. The flyer advertising the evangelistic meetings reminded her of the message in the book purchased fifty-four years ago. Hazel Gordon, for this was the elderly woman s name, attended the first meeting with the Borgersen s. On the way home she said, This is what I have been waiting to hear for fifty-four years. She attended each meeting and was baptized. Burdened to tell others what the Lord would do for them, she became a colporteur.5 The IMPACT of literature in these countries, led to the establishment of the Seventh-day Adventist church. A Great Work Table 1: Switzerland 1890 Trinidad 1872 Denmark 1891 Argentina 1874 New Zealand & Sweden 1893 India 1876 Pitcairn Island 1894 Chile 1878 Great Britain, Greece & South Africa 1897 Iceland 1879 Brazil 1899 Tobago 1880 Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (Soviet Union) Burma 1885 Australia 1905 Philippines 1887 Honduras 1975 Gambia 1888 Hong Kong 1987 Niger 14

17 Wednesday the 19th April - Bringing Hope To Every Home You can now identify with this great work, that you should have a part in. Today, there are over 25,000 literature evangelists, throughout the world, taking books and magazines printed in different languages to homes, institutions and offices. The literature ministry give the silent testimony to over 50,000 souls, who have been baptized yearly and many more are making that commitment. All evangelism should be aimed primarily at presenting the Gospel to lost men and women, and bringing them into a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. The goal must then be to establish these in our local churches Literature Evangelists. It is imperative in our literature evangelism to keep this ultimate end uppermost in our minds and to do all that we can to make this become a reality so that our work will be of lasting significance. Adventist books are sold in mud huts and kings palaces; God used literature to move masses to repentance in Luther s time. The printed page gave wings to the Advent message in the time of Ellen and James White. The forerunner in literature evangelism, George King, would truly be amazed to see the progress of the ministry. Events, circumstances and machines are used by God to further His work, but most of all He uses men and women. Meditate about this, of all the people in this church the Lord has placed His hand on your shoulder and said, I want you to be a literature evangelist. What a calling! Remarkable legacy! Exalted work! Passion fulfilled! There is no higher calling! Ardalene Bess Publishing Director South Caribbean Conference Reference 1Ellen G White, Colporteur Ministry: 1990, p.6 2Ron Appenzeller, Basic Literature Evangelism: 1989, p. 22 3Ellen G White, Colporteur Ministry: 1990, p. 6 4Ellen G White, Colporteur Ministry: 1990, p. 8 5Bruce M. Wickwire, Sr., Gospel in Shoes: 2005, p. 90 Eric John Murray, A History of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Trinidad and Tobago : 1982 Ron Appenzeller, Basic Literature Evangelism:

18 Thursday the 20th April -Bringing Hope To Every Home Sixth Reading Thursday the 20th April PUBLICATIONS IN THE PLAN OF GOD By Dr. Erwin A. González E. ISAIAH 30:8 Now go, write it before them in a table, and note it in a book, that it may be for the time to come for ever and ever. INTRODUCTION: The written press which the Adventist Church uses plays an important role in spreading the gospel. It is the most effective way to reach people towards the means of knowing Christ. The Bible and the writings of Ellen White affirm this. The servant of the Lord declares: I have been shown that the press is powerful for good or evil. This agency can reach and influence the public mind as no other means can. (CM pg. 149). She also adds: The press is a powerful instrumentality which God has ordained to be combined with the energies of the living preacher to bring the truth before all nations, kindred s, tongues, and peoples. (Life Sketches, pg. 217). - The fastest growing churches in membership in the world are those that make wise use of the publications to disseminate their doctrines. - The Adventist Church accepts this truth which Ellen White began and developed. Church members in general and colporteurs are chosen to perform this great and noble work. FOUNDATIONS OF THE PUBLISHING MINISTRY: The first publications program was organized by God. The program consisted of: a message: the love of God. An editor: God himself. The first paper: the stone. The first press: the finger of God. The first book: the tables of testimony (the law of God). The first colporteur: Moses, and the first customers : the Israelites. -The tablets that God wrote were a bookin and of themselves. Moses brought them to the people with his hand (Ex.32:15), and was the first colporteur. - The publishing work was born in the mind of God, and is grounded in the Bible. It constitutes a powerful tool for spreading the gospel through its messengers. THE WORK OF PUBLICATIONS AND COLPORTEURING The commandment of God to his prophets is an order that the Adventist church has preserved as a legacy from God. The Bible is the main written message and the spirit of prophecy is the lesser light. Of the principles recorded in these two lights are written books on topics about health, home and family, children and youth, and doctrinal issues which constitute the mandate of God to the church to spread their 16

19 Thursday the 20th April - Bringing Hope To Every Home message in a written manner. - Ellen White said about the value of a book: A sermon may be preached and soon forgotten, but a book remains. (Life Sketches, p. 381) She also adds: It is true that some who buy the books will lay them on the shelf or place them on the parlor table and seldom look at them... (CM, p. 150) Regarding the scope of the publications, Ellen White stated that: Our publications should go to all places... There are many places in which the voice of the minister cannot be heard, places which can be reached only by our publications (CM pg. 4). The angels accompany: Whenever the canvassers go through the cities preaching the Gospel, the angels are with them: Entering the homes of your neighbors to sell or to give away our literature, and in humility to teach them the truth, you will be accompanied by the light of heaven, which will abide in these homes. (PM 312). CONCLUSION: The publishing work and canvassing will never fail. God will use this method to complete the task of preaching in this world. This work is not only to sell books, but to leave in the hands of readers the transforming power of the word. God will complete the work of evangelization through His Spirit. The work of publications was established by divine mandate and it has strengthened the Adventist Church for more than163 years. James and Ellen White s strengthened it for the good of the church. This work will continue successfully under the care of God. - With our hearts and minds committed to serving God and His cause,the colporteur will continue to carry this work by Faith until Christ returns to earth The Lord warns all church leaders, at any level, to love and support the canvassing work. He warns us through His servant: If you lay your hand upon the publishing work, this great instrumentality of God, to place your mold and superscription upon it, you will find that it will be dangerous to your own souls, and disastrous to the work of God. It will be as great a sin in the sight of God as was the sin of Uzzah when he put forth his hand to steady the ark. (TM, p. 462) Pr. Erwin A. González E. Director of Publications, Inter-American Division 17

20 Friday the 21st April -Bringing Hope To Every Home Seventh Reading Friday the 21st April FRONTLINE COMMANDOES By Pastor Vishnu Persad Years ago, the famous Jamaican singer Bob Marley sang a tune entitled War. A section that stood out to me is the part that says, There is war in the east, war in the west, war up north, war down south, war, and war! He may not have been a prophet, but the lyrics of that song seem to describe today s society. Everywhere we turn there is some form of war. We do not have to go to the Middle East or some other far-off destination to experience war. In the Parliament political groups seem unlikely to come together. Within the schools there are gang fights. Among religions there is a tearing down of each other. In the homes there is family strife. War! War! There is another war that some persons are not aware of. The sad thing is that those who know about this war, which is the Church, seem at times to forget it even exists by the way they behave. The war I am referring to is a battle that is greater than the war on terrorism, for it deals with eternal consequences. This battle is often referred to as the Great Controversy. Believe it or not, like it or not, we are all wrapped up in this warfare. Satan does not like us and if he gets an opportunity he would kill us. John 10:10 tells us, that the thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill and to destroy. In the Holy Scriptures the Christian life is portrayed using familiar imageries. For example, we are told that we are in a race (Hebrews 12:1, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27). However without doing a formal research, the imagery I believe that is most utilized by Bible writers to describe the Christian Life is that of war. (Ephesians 6:11-17, 2 Corinthians 10:3-5) Saving Private Ryan When I was younger, I had lots of time to watch movies, and one of the movies that stood out to me in particular was Saving Private Ryan. This movie was released in 1998 and captured audiences all over the globe. In 2014, the film was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress, being deemed culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant. The story line in a nutshell speaks of how four blood brothers who were all in the army at the same time went to war. Three of the four brothers died and three telegrams were sent to their mother on the same day informing her of their deaths. It was ordered that a team of six specially trained soldiers locate Private Ryan who was the fourth brother and missing through the chaos of war. The mission was to retrieve him at any cost and send him back home immediately to comfort his grieving mother and ensure at least one of her son is alive. Career Literature Evangelists are like these handpicked soldiers. Colporteurs enter the battle field to retrieve men and women from harm s way before they suffer the same fate of millions at the hands of the enemy. We should note, however, that while we need more foot soldiers, not all can be Career Literature Evangelists. Some are better adapted than others for doing a certain work; therefore it is not correct to think that everyone can be a canvasser. Some have no special adaptability for this work; but they are not, because of this, to be regarded as faithless or unwilling. The lord is not unreasonable in His requirements. 18

21 Friday the 21st April - Bringing Hope To Every Home The church is as a garden in which variety of flowers, each with its own peculiarities. Though in many respects all may different, yet each has a value of its own. CM 27:2 To further emphasize the point that Career Literature Evangelists are a special group of handpicked soldiers, let us pay attention to this excerpt from the pen of inspiration. The Canvassing work is more important than many have regarded it, and as much care and wisdom must be used in selecting the workers as in selecting men for the ministry. CM 26:2 Yes, brothers and sisters, Career Literature Evangelists are just as important as the Gospel Minister. Silent Messengers We are living in an age where most persons do something for recognition. However, there are times when the biggest contributors to the success of any project including war are unnamed and unsung. On September , George W. Bush declared war on terrorism, yet he never physically fought any battle. Just like President Bush, Public Evangelists preach in Evangelistic series and many are baptized and the credit goes to the preacher. It is true that ultimately it is the Holy Spirit that brings people to Jesus, yet let us look at the medium. More than one thousand will soon be converted in one day, most of whom will trace their first convictions to the reading of our publication The Review and Herald, November 10, CM In other words, for thousands that are baptized in Evangelistic Meetings, ground work was done through our Literature. Career Literature Evangelists, unsung heroes, distribute some of this literature. When next you see a Colporteur, please remember to affirm him or her for the great work they are doing. Hinges and Wheels move not Gates When we read the latter part of Matthew 16:18 do we really understand what is written there? I am referring to the statement from Christ that tells us that the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. The word it means the church. Have you taken time to soak in what that really means when God said the gates would not prevail against us? Let us reason together. Most buildings today are well fenced around for protection. There is at least one section of the property that has a gate. For that gate to function, or any other gate as a matter of fact, it must either be mounted on hinges or roll on wheels. When you lock that gate in the morning and return in the evening to open it the gate does not magically increase the size of your property. The gate as well cannot relocate your building. The main function of the gate is to open and close either on hinges or wheels. This tells me that the lost would not just leave the camp of Satan. God expects the Church to walk into the strong hold of the enemy and snatch men and women for Jesus. The promise is assured that when you go into enemy territory for the purpose of bringing hope to every home, gates open and would not prevent God s work. Career Literature Evangelists enter the enemy strong holds of homes, schools, government and private institutions practically five to six days of the week to evangelize through the printed page, and the gates of hell cannot stop them from entering. They go seeking the lost regardless of the darts that Satan hurls at them because of their shield of faith they possess. Whenever a book is presented that would expose error, Satan is close by the side of the one to whom it is offered, and urges reasons why it should not be accepted. But a divine agency is at work to influence minds in favor of the light. Ministering Angels will oppose their 19

22 Friday the 21st April -Bringing Hope To Every Home power to that of Satan. And when through the influence of the Holy Spirit the truth is received into the mind and heart, it would have a transforming power upon the character. CM 115:1 Please remember to pray for these commandoes. They do at times hand to hand battle with Satan through payer. Satan knows that these are God s appointed agents, hence he would anything to distract them from this work. You may be shocked to know one of the distractions of the work. Missionaries are wanted everywhere. In all parts of the field canvassers should be selected, not from the floating element in society, not from among men and women who are good for nothing else and have made a success of nothing, but from among those who have good address, tact, keen foresight, and ability. Such are needed to make a success as colporteurs, canvassers, and agents. Men suited to this work undertake it, but some injudicious minister will flatter them that their gift should be employed in the desk instead of simply in the work of the colporteur. Thus this work is belittled. They are influenced to get a license to preach; and the very ones who might have been trained to make good missionaries to visit families at their homes and talk and pray with them are caught up to make poor ministers; and the field where so much labor is needed, and where so much good might be accomplished for the cause, is neglected. Testimonies for the Church Vol 4 pp 389, 390 (1880). Let us pray that the commandoes are not diverted by well-meaning yet misinformed persons. Let us pray that those who have not answered the call to be career evangelists do so. Are you one who needs to answer? Pastor Vishnu Persad Publishing Director Guyana Conference Assistant Publishing Director Tobago Mission Guyana Conference

23 - Bringing Hope To Every Home REQUIREMENTS TO BE A LITERATURE EVANGELISTS This is a Spiritual Work, it cannot be accomplish if: 1. You were not called. 2. Your life is not consecrated to God. First Level: 1. Application form 2. Passport size picture 3. Two Testimonials (Pastor & first elder of church) 4. Fitness Certificate 5. CSME certificate (where needed) Second Level: 1. Attend an interview 2. Receive a visit 3. Dialogue with the Director s Third Level: 1. Application taken to the board 2. Application taken to the Executive Committee Fourth Level: 1. Enlistment training 2. Books to read 3. Graduation Fifth Level 1. Monthly training days 2. Field work daily 21

24 -Bringing Hope To Every Home CLASSIFICATION OF LITERATURE EVANGELISTS According to policy, (N Categories or classes of Literature Evangelists) there are three classes, types or categories of literature evangelists: 1. Occasional Literature Evangelists 2. Student Literature Evangelists 3. Regular Literature Evangelists 4. Literature Distributor BENEFITS OF BEING A LITERATURE EVANGELISTS 1. Deeper Spiritual connection to God 2. Soul Winning Opportunities 3. Incentives 4. Quarterly Benefits 5. Commission on Sales 6. Ability to conduct Bible Studies 7. Experience in Missionary Work 8. Opportunity to dedicate and commit yourself to God as a Literature Evangelist 9. Establish a presence in the community 10. Build lasting friendships Who can become a Literature Evangelist? Anyone can become a literature evangelists, even though you are gainfully employed. The different categories of the ministry caters for all to get involve in missionary work. The literature evangelist is a self-supporting professional who devotes himself/herself to acquiring and purchasing the materials and publications assigned, by offering them for the distribution and sale to the general public and the church members. The literature evangelist must be a baptised member of the Seventh-day Adventist church. 22

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