The children of this world are wiser in their generation than the children of light. In their line they manifest more good sense in every way and more earnest determination and purpose. It is not to be advocated that the schemes and methods of the business world should be introduced into the work of God. His plans are not to be improved upon. What some call "sanctified common sense" has corrupted and ruined the religion of Christ from of old. It is not in this respect that the children of this age are to be emulated. But given the will of God, his word and plans inviolate, then see how lax in comparison, how careless, with how little thought, and with what half-hearted, scattered effort the children of God conduct the Lord's business. If any earthly [203] business were conducted after such fashion, it could end only in failure. Either they do not know how, or they do not care, or they have lost faith in their religion, or are ashamed of it, or--well, something is the matter with the children of light. Would they work better if they received twenty-five dollars cash for every soul truly brought in?

[TAG 203-204]