1. "To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the Truth", John 18:37. "It was our Lord's faithfulness to the Truth that brought upon Him the opposition of those who were blinded by the adversary. It was His witness to the Truth that cost Him His life, and it was the giving of His life in defense of the Truth that constituted the redemption price. Similarly all of the Lord's followers are to bear witness to the Truth-the truth in respect to God's character and plan. It is such witness to the Truth that is to cost all the true followers of Jesus their lives in presenting themselves living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God through Christ Jesus. Let each one who hopes to be a joint-heir with the Prince of Life in the Kingdom witness to the Truth-a good confession respecting the Kingdom, its foundation and ultimate superstructure in glory", M-7-21.
2. Those who have real and sincere faith in God are willing to take Him at His word, and with these the first principles of the doctrine should long ago have been established; much of the superstructure of gold and silver and precious stones should already be erected, and the work be steadily progressing. Such are able, if they are loyal and true to God, to discern between truth and error. We ought to know what we believe and why we believe it, and then should be bold and uncomprising in declaring it; for "if the trumpet give an uncertain sound who shall prepare himself to battle?" 1Cor.14:8; M-5-3; R5689:5,13
3. "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: hough your sins be as scarlet, they shall be white as snow", Isiah1:18. When a number of people associate themselves, adopt a name, publish their doctrines to the world and invite members, their doctrines are properly subject to public criticism. They still preserve their individual rights, however. What a man believes or disbelieves is his own business, and not subject to public criticism. Doctrines only may be criticised; and these should be honestly treated, not misrepresented. This applies to every creed, every cult; and all honest people should welcome such investigation and truthful criticism. OV371:1; R5132:3
4. In accordance with paragraphs on to three, we conclude that all convention Speakers, Chairman, Panelists, etc. should be believers in and teachers of present truth. When speakers who teach errors (contrary to present truth) are placed on convention programs, it seems to us that "Truth" is dethroned from its rightful position as our standard-bearer and "Error" improperly installed in its place.
5. Let us all earnestly contend for present truth and against error. SM259:1; Jude 3; M-9-23; 1Cor.13:6; R4918:16