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“
As a people we are certainly in great danger, if we are not constantly
guarded, of considering our ideas, because long cherished, to be Bible
doctrines and on every point infallible, and measuring everyone by the
rule of our interpretation of Bible truth. This is our danger, and this
would be the greatest evil that could ever come to us as a people.

BRIDGES NOT WALLS

“
While I was in Europe I felt deeply moved by the Spirit of God, as I never did
before, that there must be altogether a different spirit and element brought
into our conferences. If one should hold ideas differing in some respects
from that which we have heretofore entertained—not on vital points of
truth—…

BRIDGES NOT WALLS

“
—there should not be a firm, rigid attitude assumed that all is right in
every particular, all is Bible truth without a flaw, that every point we have
held is without mistake or cannot be improved. This I know to be dangerous
business and it proceeds from that wisdom that is from beneath.
1888 Materials, p.830

BRIDGES NOT WALLS

“
We should not allow our feelings to be easily wounded. We are to live, not to
guard our feelings or our reputation, but to save souls.
As we become interested in the salvation of souls we cease to mind the little
differences that so often arise in our association with one another.
MH 485

BRIDGES NOT WALLS

“
In regard to making known our faith no decided effort should be made to
conceal it, and no unwise efforts put forth to make it prominent. Persons
will come to the sanitarium who are in a favorable condition to be
impressed by the truth. If they ask questions in regard to our faith, it would
be proper to state what we believe, in a clear, simple manner. Indwelling
godliness imparts a power to the conduct of the true believer that gives him
an influence for the right.

BRIDGES NOT WALLS

“
But in this matter we should act with discretion. There are conscientious
persons who think it their duty to talk freely upon points of faith on which
there is a difference of opinion, in a manner which arouses the
combativeness of those with whom they converse. One such premature,
injudicious effort may close the ears of one who otherwise would have
heard patiently, but who will now influence others unfavorably. Thus spring
up the roots of bitterness, whereby many are defiled. Through the
indiscretion of one, the ears and hearts of many may be closed to the truth.
Evangelism p.542

BRIDGES NOT WALLS

“
Brethren, you who go forth to labor for those who are bound in chains of
prejudice and ignorance, need to exercise the same divine wisdom that Paul
manifested. When you are laboring in a place where souls are just
beginning to get the scales from their eyes, and to see men as trees
walking, be very careful not to present the truth in such a way as to arouse
prejudice, and to close the door of the heart to the truth.

BRIDGES NOT WALLS

“
Agree with the people on every point where you can consistently do so. Let
them see that you love their souls, and want to be in harmony with them so
far as possible. If the love of Christ is revealed in all your efforts, you will be
able to sow the seed of truth in some hearts; God will water the seed sown,
and the truth will spring up and bear fruit to His glory.
Evangelism 140

BRIDGES NOT WALL

Jesus
Matt.4:18-20 - Fishermen
Matt.8:5-11 -Centurion
Matt.19:16-20 Rich young ruler
John 4:4-25 Samaritan Woman
Paul
Acts 13 - Jews
Acts 14 - Pagans (Lystra)
Acts 17 - Athenians (philosophers)
1 Cor.9:19-23 - Servant to All
BRIDGES NOT WALLS