First Sabbath Offering
Literature for Mission Fields
In the 21st century, while the Internet, e-books, and other media are modern ways to spread the gospel, there is still a uniquely versatile method of presentation that no other media type can replace: The printed page is one of the most effective ways for the gospel to reach even the remotest places on earth—without electricity. By this means the good news is penetrating former communist, atheistic, and Islamic countries and can be shared on a one-to-one basis. The servant of the Lord has said: “Let the publications containing Bible truth be scattered like the leaves of autumn” (In Heavenly Places, p. 323). “Our publications should go everywhere. Let them be issued in many languages. The third angel’s message is to be given through this medium and through the living teacher. You who believe the truth for this time, wake up. It is your duty now to bring in all the means possible to help those who understand the truth to proclaim it” (Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 62).
“Publish ye, praise ye, and say, O Lord, save thy people, the remnant of Israel” (Jeremiah 31:7). God’s people, the remnant of Israel, are to publish the good news of salvation. While we have an ample supply of Bibles, books, and pamphlets for evangelism in many countries, still there are vast multitudes around the world that do not have the same privilege. It is our duty and honor to support the distribution of literature to various regions of the world. The Bible has been translated into many languages and dialects, yet essential books such as Steps to Christ, and The Great Controversy are not available to millions. How about if we share Sabbath Bible Lessons with those who are searching for the present truth today?
Consider the Pacific islands and the African countries where the reform message has not yet entered. Let us remember the promise in Ecclesiastes 11:1, “Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days.” We must spread the Word of God before it is too late. We may not see the results immediately, but it will not be long before we can witness the great harvest when the latter rain comes in fullness. Let us be wise stewards who store treasure in heaven—not on this earth.
We are very thankful for all that our brethren, sisters, and friends everywhere have done in the past—but the need is greater now than ever before. So let us be generous in this work!
The General Conference Publishing Department