How the Gospel Has Power

Christ gave His disciples their message. Teach the people, He said, “to observe all things that I have commanded you.” The things He had spoken, not only in person but through all the Old Testament, are included here. There is no place for tradition, human theories, or laws established by church authority. “The Law and the Prophets,” with the record of His own words and deeds, are the treasure we are to give to the world.HH 378.4

We are to present the gospel not as a lifeless theory but as a living force to change the life. Those whose actions have been most offensive to Him He freely accepts. When they repent, He gives them His divine Spirit and sends them into the camp of the disloyal to proclaim His infinite mercy. Through His grace human beings may possess a Christlike character and rejoice in His great love.HH 378.5

He is not content simply to announce these blessings. He presents them in the most attractive way, to awaken a desire to possess them. This is also how His servants are to present the riches of the unspeakable Gift. The wonderful love of Christ will melt and subdue hearts when merely reciting doctrines would accomplish nothing. Words alone cannot tell it. Let it show in the life. Christ is posing for His portrait in every disciple. Every one of them is to reveal His longsuffering love, His mercy and truth, to the world.HH 378.6

The first disciples prepared themselves for their work. Before Pentecost, they met together and put away all differences. Unitedly they prayed in faith, feeling deeply the burden for others to be saved. Then it was that the Holy Spirit was poured out, and thousands were converted in a day.HH 378.7

It can be the same way now. Preach the Word of God. Let Christians put away their disagreements and give themselves to God for saving the lost. If they will ask in faith for the blessing, it will come. The outpouring in the apostles’ days was the “former rain,” and the result was glorious, but the “latter rain” will be more abundant. See Joel 2:23.HH 378.8

All who consecrate soul, body, and spirit to God will constantly receive new reserves of physical and mental power. When they cooperate with Christ, He enables them in their human weakness to do the deeds of the Almighty.HH 379.1

The Savior longs to reveal His grace and stamp His character on the whole world. He wants to make people free and pure and holy. Through the blood He shed for the world they may achieve triumphs that will bring glory to God and the Lamb. Christ “shall see the labor of His soul, and be satisfied.” Isaiah 53:11.HH 379.2