1 Corinthians 1:27 “But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.”

ABSTRACT

This article explores how God calls individuals from diverse backgrounds to spread His gospel, emphasizing that dedication and divine preparation outweigh worldly qualifications. It highlights the importance of humility, training, and continuous learning for effective service, drawing on biblical examples and inspired writings to affirm that God equips us for His mission. The youth’s potential to accelerate the gospel’s spread is underscored, with a focus on preparation and personal witness as key to authentic ministry.

GOD CALLS HUMBLE SERVANTS

God invites us from all walks of life to share His message, often choosing those from humble backgrounds. Unlike worldly expectations that prioritize formal education or status, God values a willing heart. In the closing work of the gospel, a vast field awaits, and we, as common people, are enlisted to serve. Sr. White notes, “In this closing work of the gospel there is a vast field to be occupied; and, more than ever before, the work is to enlist helpers from the common people” (Education, pp. 269-270, 1903). The disciples Jesus chose were ordinary men, not scholars, yet their openness to divine teaching made them effective. “And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach” (Mark 3:14, KJV). “But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty” (1 Corinthians 1:27, KJV). Sr. White further explains, “God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him” (The Desire of Ages, p. 294, 1898). She adds, “The Lord can use most effectively those who are most sensible of their own unworthiness and inefficiency” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 459, 1889). Our willingness to serve and learn equips us for God’s mission. How does God prepare us for this sacred task?

PREPARATION THROUGH DIVINE GUIDANCE

God equips us through divine guidance to fulfill His mission effectively. We must be prepared to leave former occupations, as Elisha did when he followed Elijah, to serve with dedication. Sr. White emphasizes, “They must be prepared for labor, that they may work acceptably, and their efforts be crowned with success” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 7, p. 27, 1902). This preparation involves cooperating with heavenly agencies and embracing humility. “Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts” (Isaiah 6:5, KJV). “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9, KJV). Sr. White affirms, “Those who surrender fully to God will be used by Him to accomplish great results” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 402, 1890). She also states, “God will accept the wholehearted service of those who yield their will to Him” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 473, 1905). Our preparation ensures we are effective instruments in God’s hands. What hinders our ability to advance God’s cause?

OVERCOMING LIMITATIONS THROUGH TRAINING

A lack of training can slow the progress of God’s truth, but diligent study overcomes this barrier. Those who skim the surface of knowledge gain only shallow understanding, limiting their impact. Paul, despite his zeal, spent three years in preparation to deepen his ministry (Galatians 1:18-19, KJV). Sr. White warns, “The cause of God is suffering for want of men of ability and thorough education” (Gospel Workers, p. 93, 1915). We must strive for mental discipline and continuous learning to serve effectively. “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15, KJV). “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18, KJV). Sr. White counsels, “The mind must be trained to comprehend the important truths of God’s word” (Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 126, 1923). She adds, “A well-disciplined mind will accomplish great things for the cause of God” (Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, p. 405, 1913). Training enhances our ability to share the gospel with power. How can the youth amplify this mission?

THE YOUTH’S ROLE IN GOD’S MISSION

The community’s youth hold immense potential to spread the gospel swiftly when rightly trained. Their energy and enthusiasm, combined with proper preparation, can hasten the message of a crucified, risen, and soon-coming Savior. Sr. White declares, “With such an army of workers as our youth, rightly trained, might furnish, how soon the message of a crucified, risen, and soon-coming Saviour might be carried to the whole world” (Education, p. 271, 1903). Ongoing education ensures their effectiveness. “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12, KJV). “And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:15, KJV). Sr. White encourages, “The youth who consecrate their talents to God will become mighty instruments in His hands” (Messages to Young People, p. 25, 1930). She also notes, “Young men and women, God calls you to be His colaborers” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, p. 117, 1909). The youth’s preparation fuels the gospel’s rapid spread. Why is personal witness essential before sharing the gospel?

THE POWER OF PERSONAL WITNESS

We must first be witnesses of God’s grace to deliver His message with authenticity and power. Acts 1:8 declares, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” (KJV). Personal experience with God’s transforming grace equips us to share His truth effectively. “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony” (Revelation 12:11, KJV). “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 28:19, KJV). Sr. White affirms, “The power of the gospel lies in the personal experience of those who proclaim it” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 111, 1911). She further states, “Those who have been brought from error to truth have a testimony to bear” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 122, 1901). Our transformed lives testify to God’s power, making our message compelling.

“For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building” (1 Corinthians 3:9, KJV).

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SELF-REFLECTION

How can we deepen our understanding of God’s call to serve, allowing His truths to shape our character and priorities in daily devotionals?

How can we present the call to gospel service in a way that resonates with diverse audiences, from new seekers to seasoned members, while maintaining theological accuracy?

What common misunderstandings about God’s choice of humble servants exist in our community, and how can we correct them using Scripture and Sr. White’s writings?

In what practical ways can we, as individuals and congregations, live out the reality of God’s call to serve, becoming vibrant witnesses of His grace and truth?