Spirit of Prophecy
An introduction to the writings of Ellen G. White — the lesser light pointing to the greater light, the Word of God.
Gospel Workers
Overview
Gospel Workers is Ellen G. White's practical handbook of counsel and instruction for ministers, evangelists, Bible workers, and every believer engaged in the work of soul-winning. It speaks candidly to those who labor for others -- addressing the minister's calling and preparation, the qualifications and character required, the conduct of public preaching and personal work, the dangers and temptations that beset gospel workers, the methods of reaching the cities and the world, and the relationships between workers and the church. Warm, direct, and searching, it holds up a high standard for those who represent Christ, reminding them that the effectiveness of their labor depends far more on their personal walk with God than on talent or eloquence.
Purpose & Background
Ellen White intended this book to be a trusted guide for gospel laborers -- to lift the standard of the ministry, to warn against common dangers and defective methods, and to encourage faithful, Christlike service. She wanted every worker to understand that the highest qualification for gospel work is a heart transformed by Christ, and that self-discipline, humility, diligence, and dependence on God are essential to reaching souls. It is as much a call to personal consecration as it is a manual of method.
Best For
Ministers, elders, Bible workers, colporteurs, and every church member engaged in outreach, teaching, or leadership. Though written especially for gospel workers, its counsel on character, spiritual preparation, and dealing with others benefits any believer who wants to serve Christ effectively. A foundational resource for those studying evangelism and ministry.
Publisher
Review and Herald Publishing Association
The first edition of Gospel Workers appeared in 1892 and found a place in nearly every Seventh-day Adventist home. This revised and enlarged edition was prepared in 1915, drawing on the wealth of counsel Ellen White had written in the intervening years. Because the work was completed after she had closed her active life as a writer and speaker, it represents a compilation gathered from her complete writings -- the ripened fruit of her life's counsel to the workers of the movement.
Contents
Gospel Workers is organized into twelve sections covering the calling, preparation, work, and relationships of the gospel worker. The main sections are grouped below. The complete section-by-section text is available free at the read link.
- The Calling and the Worker -- called with a holy calling, ministers of righteousness, and the messengers God uses
- Preparation and Qualifications -- the needed preparation and the character and qualifications of the true worker
- The Minister in the Pulpit -- public preaching, teaching, and the conduct of worship
- The Under-Shepherd -- pastoral care, personal labor, and the shepherd's heart for the flock
- Helps in Gospel Work -- practical methods, the use of literature, and reaching people where they are
- Dangers -- the temptations, pitfalls, and defective methods that threaten gospel workers
- Methods and the Cities -- labor in the cities, medical missionary work, temperance, religious liberty, and less preaching with more teaching
- Conference Responsibilities and Working Together -- leadership, business matters, unity in diversity, church discipline, and the reward of faithful service