Historical and Theological Lore
As a preparation for Christian work, many think it essential to acquire an extensive knowledge of historical and theological writings. They suppose that this knowledge will be an aid to them in teaching the gospel. But their laborious study of human opinions tends to enfeeble their ministry rather than strengthen it.MHH 255.4
As I see libraries filled with ponderous volumes of historical and theological lore, I think, “‘Why do you spend money for what is not bread?’” Isaiah 55:2. The sixth chapter of John tells us more than can be found in such works. Christ says: “‘I am the Bread of Life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst.’” “‘I am the living Bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this Bread, he will live forever.’” “‘He who believes in Me has everlasting life.’” “‘The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.’” John 6:35, 51, 47, 63.MHH 255.5
There is a study of history that is not to be condemned. Sacred history was one of the studies in the schools of the prophets. In the record of God’s dealings with the nations were traced His footsteps. So today we are to consider the dealings of God with the nations of the earth. We are to see in history the fulfillment of prophecy. We are to study the workings of Providence in the great reformatory movements and to understand the progress of events in the marshaling of the nations for the final conflict of the great controversy.MHH 255.6
Such study will give broad, comprehensive views of life. It will help us to understand something of its relations and dependencies, how wonderfully we are bound together in the great community of society and nations, and to how great an extent the oppression and degradation of one member means loss to all.MHH 256.1
But history, as commonly studied, is concerned with human achievements such as victories in battle and success in attaining power and greatness. God’s agency in human affairs is lost sight of. Few study the working out of His purpose in the rise and fall of nations.MHH 256.2
And, to a great degree, theology, as studied and taught, is but a record of human speculation, serving only to “darken counsel by words without knowledge.” Job 38:2. Too often the motive in accumulating these many books is not a desire to obtain food for mind and soul, it is an ambition to become acquainted with philosophers and theologians, a desire to present Christianity to the people in learned terms and propositions.MHH 256.3
Not all the books written can serve the purpose of a holy life. “‘Learn from Me,’” said the Great Teacher, “‘take My yoke upon you,’ learn My meekness and lowliness.” Your intellectual pride will not aid you in communicating with souls who are perishing for want of the bread of life. In your study of these books you are allowing them to take the place of the practical lessons you should be learning from Christ. The results of this study do not feed the people. Very little of the research that is so wearying to the mind furnishes help for a person who wants to be a successful soul winner.MHH 256.4
The Savior came “‘to preach the gospel to the poor.’” Luke 4:18. In His teaching He used the simplest terms and the plainest symbols. And it is said that “the common people heard Him gladly.” Mark 12:37. Those who are seeking to do His work for this time need a deeper insight into the lessons He has given.MHH 256.5
The words of the living God are the highest of all education. Those who minister to the people need to eat of the Bread of Life. This will give them spiritual strength. Then they will be prepared to minister to all classes of people.MHH 256.6