Foreword

Why are we here? Why did the Creator see fit to entrust us with the last message of mercy to be given to the world? Does this fact really give our life a deeper significance? It certainly should!

During this quarter, Sabbath schools all around the world will be studying The Christian’s Calling. What is this special calling in these last days before the return of Christ, the Bridegroom?

“Those who wait for the Bridegroom’s coming are to say to the people, ‘Behold your God.’ The last rays of merciful light, the last message of mercy to be given to the world, is a revelation of His character of love. The children of God are to manifest His glory. In their own life and character they are to reveal what the grace of God has done for them.

“The light of the Sun of Righteousness is to shine forth in good works–in words of truth and deeds of holiness.”–Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 415, 416.

“The work of God is worthy of our best efforts. In fulfillment of the divine plan, the Son of man came to seek and to save that which was lost. He taught the erring and sinful ones whom He came to save, and wrestled in earnest prayer to His Father in their behalf; and we should engage in the same work. If it was not beneath the dignity of the Son of God, the Creator of worlds, should it be considered too humiliating or too self-sacrificing for His followers? No, indeed. However aspiring we may be, there is no calling that is higher, holier, and more ennobling than to be a colaborer with the Son of God.”–The Signs of the Times, September 16, 1886.

“Behold, as the clay [is] in the potter's hand, so [are] ye in mine hand” (Jeremiah 18:6).

“We have a calling as much higher than common, selfish interests as the heavens are higher than the earth.”–Evangelism, p. 550.

In fact, there is no greater calling, no higher calling, no more exalted privilege to be found on earth. It is so different, so distinct from what the world considers to be great and glorious that believers are awestruck when they realize it, and delighted when they taste it. Instead of being driven by the spirit of gain, the true people of God seek to give. Instead of coveting honor and praise, they humble their souls to consider others better and more worthy than themselves. How intriguing, how rare, how refreshing! That we may catch a glimpse of this heaven-born type of glory, and truly realize the fulfilling depths of this high calling, is the aim of