The need for a deeper experience

When the time of trial shall come there are men now preaching to others who will find, upon examining the positions they hold, that there are many things for which they can give no satisfactory reason. Until thus tested they knew not their great ignorance. And there are many in the church who take it for granted that they understand what they believe, but, until controversy arises, they do not know their own weakness. When separated from those of like faith and compelled to stand singly and alone to explain their belief, they will be surprised to see how confused are their ideas of what they had accepted as truth.-Testimonies for the Church 5:707 (1889). - {LDE 70.1}

Gods people have a distinct need to study HIS word. Many claim to have a knowledge of the truths of scripture, but when pressed to give an answer for the hope that is within them, how many can are able? (I Peter 3:15) How many could give a word in due season to him that is weary? (Isaiah 50:4)

The ability to give a reason for our faith is a good accomplishment, but if the truth does not go deeper than this, the soul will never be saved. The heart must be purified from all moral defilement.-Our High Calling, 142 (1893). - {LDE 70.2}

A large class of professed believers are nothing greater than pretenders. There is no renewing of the heart, no hatred for sin, no forsaking of demoralizing and degrading habits. A surface faith will be plucked asunder when the winds and storms howl and rage. Christians are called to be like the great cedars of Lebanon (Psalms 92:12). With roots extending deep into the Word of God, wrapped firmly around the rock that is Christ, Christians will remain steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord. ( I Corinthians 15:57,58). How can a young man cleanse his ways? How can the life be changed? By taking heed according to thy word (Psalms 119:9).