Foreword

The Bible begins with the simple recognition of divine ownership. All things belong to the Creator, and as we understand this truth we can see an ever expanding need to understand our responsibilities as His followers. God has placed us on this earth as stewards of the Gospel Commission. How to fulfill this commission of service is the topic of study for this quarter.

Consider these statements from Inspiration as we begin our study:

“God requires everyone to be a worker in His vineyard. You are to take up the work that has been placed in your charge, and to do it faithfully.”–Christian Service, p. 9.

“Let no church think it is too small to exert an influence and do service in the great work for this time.”–The Review and Herald, March 13, 1888.

“The work which the disciples did, we also are to do. Every Christian is to be a missionary. In sympathy and compassion we are to minister to those in need of help, seeking with unselfish earnestness to lighten the woes of suffering humanity.”–The Ministry of Healing, p. 104.

“Youthful talent, well organized and well trained, is needed in our churches. The youth will do something with their overflowing energies. Unless these energies are directed into right channels, they will be used by the youth in a way that will hurt their own spirituality, and prove an injury to those with whom they associate.”–Gospel Workers, p. 211.

“We should not let slip even one opportunity of qualifying ourselves intellectually to work for God.”–Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 334.

“Every true disciple is born into the kingdom of God as a missionary. He who drinks of the living water becomes a fountain of life. The receiver becomes a giver. The grace of Christ in the soul is like a spring in the desert, welling up to refresh all, and making those who are ready to perish eager to drink of the water of life.”–The Desire of Ages, p. 195.