What admonitions of Christ apply with special force in these last days of earth s history?
Matthew 24:12; Revelation 2:4. “The members of the church should each have a jealous care that the enemies of our faith have no occasion to triumph over their lifeless, backslidden state. Some have wasted their influence, when with a little self-denial, earnestness, and zeal, they might have been a power on the side of good. This zeal will not come without effort, without earnest struggles.” Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 287. “There are many who give no decided evidence that they are true to their baptismal vows. Their zeal is chilled by formality, worldly ambition, pride, and love of self. Occasionally their feelings are stirred, but they do not fall on the Rock, Christ Jesus. They do not come to God with hearts that are broken in repentance and confession. Those who experience the work of true conversion in their hearts will reveal the fruits of the Spirit in their lives.” Ibid., vol. 9, p. 155. A QUALITY TO SEEK 3. How does the Bible depict the vital importance of zeal for God? Psalms 42:
