Very often we can hear some older members comment that most of the educated youths of our Church today are not concerned with the commission of evangelism entrusted to them by the Lord. They say that these youths do not accept the commission voluntarily even at the time when the Church is badly in need of their services.

To dedicate oneself to become a full-time preacher is certainly not an easy matter because it does present many difficulties. However, the main reason for one being reluctant to accept this commission is the lack of faith. If one has a strong faith, then there should not be any problem. Evangelism is the most urgent mission for the present Church and preaching itself is a noble task. The Church now is in need of people who are spiritually gifted and capable (not necessary to be highly educated) to carry this burden. In truth, the worldly professions are not comparable to this holy task, because they are temporarily good for oneself, whilst the holy work is meant for the eternal blessings of millions of people.

We strive to preach, not for the future reward, but to fulfill the commission entrusted to us by the Lord. While offering oneself, one should have the attitude of ‘saving others as if it is saving oneself’. It is written in Proverbs—“Rescue those who are being taken away to death, hold back those who are stumbling to the slaughter” (Prov 24: 11). People of this world are heading towards the path of destruction, so they need us to hold them back.

During the Old Testament period the Israelites were suffering in Egypt, and when Moses saw this he was very sad. He gave up his luxurious life in the palace and forsook worldly pleasure so as to live and die with God’s chosen people. Paul of the New Testament chose to remain single for the Lord, which is worthy of our admiration.

There is an old Chinese saying which means ‘to be behind none in the desire to benefit mankind’. Thus, those upon whom is bestowed the gift of preaching should take up the commission willingly so as to repay the grace of redemption (Ps 116: 12-13; 2 Cor 5: 14-15). Therefore, one should not ponder over the consequences but should accept the commission willingly because God has arranged to provide for one’s needs.

Paul exhorted us, “Brethren by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship” (Rom 12: 1). The Lord’s second coming is near, so “we must work the works of Him who sent me, while it is a day; night comes, when no one can work” (Jn 9: 4). Hence the educated youths of the True Jesus Church should not bury the gifts from the Lord but should wake up now and be fervent. Come forward to offer your talent and gifts by propagating the gospel of salvation to all corners of the world, in order to receive the second coming of the Lord.

Amen.