It has been my privilege, for a number of years, to labor in behalf of the French Roman Catholics, and I have had the joy of seeing many accept the truth. Through actual experience I have learned many valuable lessons in dealing with these people, and gladly pass on a few suggestions which may be of practical value to other workers coming in contact with Roman Catholic people.
1. Viewpoint—The Great Teacher admonished His disciples to be "wise as serpents, and harmless as doves," and in dealing with any class of people it is wise to endeavor to get their viewpoint
2. Modify Phraseology.—Such terms as "investigative judgment," "present truth," "third angel's message," et cetera, which are very familiar to Seventh-day Adventists, mean nothing to a Roman Catholic; therefore the worker should be very guarded in using them. But it should be borne in mind that Roman Catholics have great reverence for the names "God," "Christ," "virgin Mary," and the "saints," and due caution should be observed in mentioning them. In dealing with French Catholics, to use the word "God" without the prefix "good," will result in the immediate classification of a heretic, and create a barrier which is very difficult to remove. In all preaching and conversation with Roman Catholics, I never use the word "Jesus" without the full title, "Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ."
3. Exalt Christ.—No sermon should ever be brought to a close without exalting Christ. I find it an advantage to use a picture of Christ on the cross, and for this purpose I have had a special painting made. At the psychological moment in my sermon I unroll this painting, and by reference to it, seek to impress the truth taught.
4. Reference to Virgin. Mary and St. Peter.—To the Roman Catholic these names are very familiar and of deep significance, and by the appropriate use of these names we can establish confidence and gain their interest and attention. I have had good success in advertising that I would preach on "The Commandment of the Virgin Mary," using as my text John 2:1-5. Make frequent reference to the epistles of St. Peter and quote the apostle's instruction.
5. Use Catholic Bible.—In leading into a study of the Scriptures, always use a Roman Catholic version of the Bible. "The Douay Version, made at Douay [16091 and at Rheims (1582), is the translation most in use among English-speaking Catholics today."—"Catholic Religion," Martin, p. 131.
6. Refrain From Criticism.—Never speak critically or disrespectfully of the Roman Catholic Church, or of her pope, bishops, or priests; avoid any reference to their reputation in morals. Hold to the positive teaching of God's word.
7. Understand Catholic Doctrine and Accurately Quote Authorities.—In dealing with questions of doctrine, it is very important to be well informed as to what the Roman Catholic Church teaches, and to be guarded against making any statements concerning the doctrines of the Catholic Church that cannot be proved by written statements from reliable Catholic authorities. When the statement in the word of God and that of recognized Catholic authorities do not agree, refer to the disagreement in a kindly, tactful way, without engendering a spirit of controversy, and yet making clear what is divine truth. Catholic writers have furnished many excellent statements regarding prayer, faith, Christ's return, etc., and quotations from these writers can be used to good advantage in dealing with such subjects. The majority of Roman Catholics are firm believers in the ten commandments, and are surprised to find that any change has been made by their church.
8. Presenting Doctrinal Points:
a. Daniel 7.—There are certain doctrines which I prefer not to present in a public way, but when it is necessary to present such doctrines as Daniel 7 and the little horn power, if I am aware that there are Roman Catholics in my audience, or think there are likely to be, I prefix my sermon by a candid statement, somewhat on the following order: "As a minister of the gospel of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, I am in duty bound to be true to my blessed Saviour and Master, by heeding the admonition which He gave, Preach the word' [quoting 2 Tim. 4:1-3]. In the Church of Rome are to be found many noble, God-fearing, sincere Christians who, to the best of their knowledge and ability, are walking in all the light they have received, and whose love for the truth will, I trust, lead them to careful study of the facts I shall set forth before this audience." Then when I reach the place in my sermon where I read the text, "He . . . shall wear out the saints of the Most High," I briefly mention that millions of martyrs lost their lives during the Dark Ages because of their loyalty to God's word, without stating any particulars that might give the impression that I was making a tirade against the priests or the pope or the church.
b. The Sanctuary.—In presenting the sanctuary truth, I make a cardinal point of John's vision of the ark, as brought to- view in Revelation 11:19, and connect it with the work of Christ officiating as our High Priest in heaven. In connection with the teaching of the truth concerning the heavenly sanctuary, the Catholic doctrine of the "sacrifice of the mass" requires some explanation. I take what the Bible says in such passages as Hebrews 10: 1-10; 9:24-28; 7:27, and compare with authoritative Roman Catholic statements which contradict the Bible in the positive teaching that the sacrifice of Calvary is actually repeated when the priest performs the "sacrifice of the mass." I always read the actual statements made by Catholic writers, and cite the reference in exact form, so that the Catholics know I am not repeating something which I have heard somebody else say. It pays to be well informed when dealing with Roman Catholics, and to be sure that the facts stated are upheld by recognized Catholic authorities.
New Orleans, La.
