There is too much selfish love among us. If there is a brother who encourages all we do and suggest, as right, then we esteem that brother above others. If there is another whom we imagine does not look with favor on our way of doing things, we withdraw from that one and seek to demerit his work. The Holy Spirit is grieved with such a selfish religion as this, and unless it is realized and put away, a spirit of prejudice and alienation will mar the work of God. God is dishonored when His people do not “love as brethren,” when the pattern is not correctly represented.
(MR311 39.1)
We are not all required to do exactly alike in the work. Each has his individual work to do. Spiritual life will lead to unity. We are in the world for work, earnest spiritual work. But one man is not given the same sort that is given to another. If a worker does not follow the plan of work that another thinks is right, this should not cause difference and alienation. The manner of accomplishing the work may not be precisely the way in which another would do it, but if the labor is conscientiously performed, God accepts the effort. God asks for the performance of good works, and the results of the efforts made will testify to the virtue of the worker. “By their fruits ye shall know them.” ...
(MR311 39.2)
In many cases hard judgment has been measured out when encouragement and commendation should have been given; for the results of the work done have shown that the blessing of God was upon it. Wherever this principle has been brought in, God wants a change to be made; for it is contrary to His plan. When man’s mind is allowed to become the controlling power, both parties are injured—the one who allows himself to be conscience for another, and the one who permits himself to be controlled by human wisdom.
(MR311 40.1)
As workers we need to counsel together over difficult matters. It is right that brother should consult with brother, and it is our privilege after we have done this, to bow together in prayer, and ask for divine wisdom and counsel. But for one human voice to be a controlling power is a sad mistake, and this should not continue.—Letter 186, 1907 (Portion published in Evangelism, 97)
(MR311 40.2)