Counsels for the Church - Ellen G. White

in one symmetrical body, subject to the sanctified intelligence of the whole.
Election and Ordination of Local Church Officers
The Apostle Paul writes to Titus: "Set in order the things that are
wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee: if any be
blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of
riot or unruly. For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God." Titus
1:5-7. Lay hands suddenly on no man." 1 Timothy 5:22.
In some of our churches the work of organizing and of ordaining elders
has been premature; the Bible rule has been disregarded, and consequently
grievous trouble has been brought upon the church. There should not be so
great haste in electing leaders as to ordain men who are in no way fitted for
the responsible work--men who need to be converted, elevated, ennobled,
and refined before they can serve the cause of God in any capacity.
Church Property
When an interest is aroused in any town or city, that interest should be
followed up. The place should be thoroughly worked until a humble house of
worship stands as a sign, a memorial of God's Sabbath, a light amid the
moral darkness. These memorials are to stand in many places as witnesses to
the truth.
Matters pertaining to the church should not be left in an unsettled
condition. Steps should be taken to secure church property for the cause of
God, that the work may not be retarded in its progress, and that the means
which persons wish to dedicate to God's cause may not slip into the enemy's
ranks.
I saw that God's people should act wisely, and leave nothing undone on
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