Reading maketh a full man; conference a ready man; and writing an exact man--Francis Bacon
In 2016, there are many sources of information that are readily accessible to us. The internet seems to be spilling over with conflicting content. People spout claims easily from their lips, shouting their opinions as if they are verified fact. That is, until voracious fact checkers bring about statistics that shed light on their dubious claims...at which point many hustle to issue apologies, give the "real context" for their statement, or simply back away from previous convictions. The Word of God issues a warning to us who live in the end times: "For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonder to deceive, if possible, even the elect." Matt 24:24 (NIV)
How to guard your mind against deception
1. Seek the Lord John 16:13
2. Read for yourself 2 Timothy 2:15
3. Be a responsible consumer 2 Peter 1:3-11
"We must study the truth for ourselves. No man should be relied upon to think for us. No matter who he is, or in what position he may be placed, we are not to look upon any man as a criteria for us. " Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 109
MG Literature Requirements
Bible
Steps to Christ
Desire of Ages
Education
Child Guidance or Messages to Young People
Church History (1)
A Brief History of SDA Church (G. Knight) 2nd edition
The Pathfinder Story (R. Holbrook)
Church Heritage Manual (honor)
Tell it to the World (C M Maxwell)
Leadership (1)
Positive Church in a Negative World (J. Arrias)
Ellen White on Leadership (C Tutsh)
Help! I'm being followed (C Valley)
You may find that starting a book club among yourselves, or having a reading partner will improve your accountability. While the above list is not an exhaustive list of the literature you will need for this program, these resources will start you on your journey to becoming a more informed master guide, an equipped teacher, and a full (wo)man!