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    Chapter 8—The Use of Our Talents in Communication

    In 1898 Ellen G. White sent to the leaders of the church a manuscript entitled “To Every Man His Work” in which she deals with the proper use of the talents entrusted to us. The talent of communication was treated at length and in a very enlightening manner. Mrs. White pointed out that this talent might be used to serve self or to serve Christ.DPSDAI 7.2

    “If we regard the advantages given to us as our own, to be used according to our pleasures to make a display and create a sensation, the Lord Jesus is put to shame by the characters of His professed followers.”—E. G. White, MS 142, 1898 (See The Review and Herald, June 21, 1898.)DPSDAI 7.3

    Then she asked:DPSDAI 7.4

    “Can you glorify God by being educated to represent characters in plays, and to amuse the audience with fables? Has not the Lord given you intellect to be used to His name’s glory in proclaiming the gospel of Christ. If you desire a public career, there is a work you may do. Help the class you represent in plays. Come to the reality. The Lord has given evidence of His love for the world.”—Ibid.DPSDAI 7.5

    One key point, almost hidden, is worth pondering.DPSDAI 7.6

    “All who desire a place of distinction have an opportunity to wear the yoke of Christ.”—Ibid.DPSDAI 7.7

    She urged that the media of communication be employed to communicate “a knowledge of Christ,” not for the glorification of self. See Appendix C for fuller statement.DPSDAI 7.8

    Training in “pride and a love of display” that leads to self-aggrandizement, may start at a very young age, fostered even by the Sabbath School program. Warned Ellen White in 1893:DPSDAI 7.9

    “In the Sabbath school, men and women have been accepted as officers and teachers, who have not been spiritually minded, and had no live interest in the work committed to their care; but matters can be set in order only through the aid of the Holy Spirit. The same evil has existed for years as now exists in our churches. Formality, pride, and love of display have taken the place of true piety and humble godliness.DPSDAI 7.10

    “We might see a different order of things should a number consecrate themselves wholly to God, and then devote their talents to the Sabbath school work ever advancing in knowledge, and educating themselves so that they would be able to instruct others as to the best methods to employ in the work; but it is not for the workers to seek for methods by which they can make a show, consuming time in theatrical performances and musical display, for this benefits no one. It does no good to train the children to make speeches for special occasions. They should be won to Christ, and instead of expending time, money, and effort to make a display, let the whole effort be made to gather sheaves for the harvest.”—Fundamentals of Christian Education, 253.DPSDAI 7.11

    A similar quotation makes the point even more forcefully:DPSDAI 8.1

    “Pride, self-esteem, and boldness are marked characteristics of the children of this day, and they are the curse of the age. When I see this un-Christlike, unlovely manifestation on every side, and then see parents and teachers seeking to display the ability and proficiency of their children and [students], I am pained to the heart; for I know that it is exactly the opposite course from the one that should be pursued.”—Counsels on Sabbath School Work, 46.DPSDAI 8.2

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