Counsels for the Church - Ellen G. White

We see large churches gathered in different localities. Their members
have gained a knowledge of the truth, and many are content to hear the word
of life without seeking to impart light. They feel little responsibility for the
progress of the work, little interest in the salvation of souls. They are full of
zeal in worldly things, but they do not bring their religion into their business.
They say: "Religion is religion, and business is business." They believe that
each has its proper sphere, but they say: "Let them be separated."
Because of neglected opportunities and abuse of privileges, the members
of these churches are not growing "in grace, and in the knowledge of our
Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 3:18. Therefore they are weak in
faith, deficient in knowledge, and children in experience. They are not rooted
and grounded in the truth. If they remain thus, the many delusions of the last
days will surely deceive them, for they will have no spiritual eyesight to
distinguish truth from error.
God Desires to Bestow the Gift of the Holy Spirit
When a special effort is put forth by laborers of experience in a
community where our own people live, there rests upon the believers in that
field a most solemn obligation to do all in their power to open the way for
the Lord to work. They should search their hearts prayerfully, and clear the
King's highway by putting away every sin that would hinder them from cooperating
with God and with their brethren.
In visions of the night, representations passed before me of a great
reformatory movement among God's people. Many were praising God.
The sick were healed, and other miracles were wrought. A spirit of
intercession was seen, even as was manifested before the great Day of
Pentecost. Hundreds and thousands were seen visiting families and opening
before them the word of God. Hearts were convicted by the power of the
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