GOD'S PURPOSE FOR HIS CHURCH
“The church is God's appointed agency for the salvation of men. It was organized for service, and its mission is to carry the gospel to the world.” (AA, 9)THE GREAT COMMISSION
“Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them…
Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” Mathew 28:19-20
“To each of us have been given the commission, as it is given to every disciple of Christ. In accepting Christ, we accepted this commission.” (Letter 262, 1903)
“The Saviour's commission to the disciples included all the believers. It includes all believers in Christ to the end of time. It is a fatal mistake to suppose that the work of saving souls depends alone on the ordained minister.” (DA, 822)
“The gospel is to be presented, not as a lifeless theory, but as a living force to change the life. God desires that the receivers of His grace shall be witnesses to its power.” (DA, 826)
“The first disciples went forth preaching the word. They revealed Christ in their lives. And the Lord worked with them… These disciples prepared themselves for their work. Before the day of Pentecost they met together, and put away all differences. They were of one accord. They believed Christ's promise that the blessing would be given, and they prayed in faith. They did not ask for a blessing for themselves merely; they were weighted with the burden for the salvation of souls. The gospel was to be carried to the uttermost parts of the earth, and they claimed the endowment of power that Christ had promised. Then it was that the Holy Spirit was poured out, and thousands were converted in a day.” (DA, 827)
“So it may be now. Instead of man's speculations, let the word of God be preached. Let Christians put away their dissension, and give themselves to God for the saving of the lost. Let them in faith ask for the blessing, and it will come. The outpouring of the Spirit in apostolic days was the "former rain," and glorious was the result. But the "latter rain" will be more abundant.” (DA, 827)