(2) The opportunity to count for the kingdom. There are two lines of Christian work which call loudly to-day to men and women—personal evangelism and the missionary enterprise. These are the doors most imperative for the soul in possession of power, experience, and resources to enter. Beyond these doors lies the solution of every one of the world's problems.
(3) The opportunity to grasp the doctrines of Christianity. The relation of truth to truth cannot come until the mind can deal with the abstract. The little child grasps some of the facts of Christianity, but the adult mind has the power to deal with infinite reaches of truth, interdependent and self-illuminating. This is the "solid food for full-grown men."
38. Needs of Maturity.—(1) Adequate spiritual nourishment.
The time of disillusionment has come, much of the optimism and buoyancy of youth have gone. Life is found to be a struggle even with its victories, and responsibilities and sorrows weigh. The teaching must present a Saviour and a salvation sufficient for great heart needs. It is for the deep things of God that life's experiences have made mature souls hungry, and there is pathos in the superficial dole meted out by so many teachers—superficial because they themselves have never lived "down deep."
(2) The broad outlook. To busy men and burdened women, the class ought to be a place of vision. Absorbed in one's tiny corner through six toiling days, the seventh should give opportunity to lift up the eyes and look on fields glorious in their incoming harvest. There is refreshment and inspiration and incentive now in the news from China and Japan and the islands of the sea. The teacher must bring the world-view to the class if he believes that world service is God's thought for manhood.
(3) Emphasis on personal responsibility. This is the pivotal point upon which a life of service turns, and it ought to be the focal point of teaching. Long enough has stress been laid on the conditions in the world and what ought to be done. The need now is for a prophet to say, "Thou art the man!"
39. Difficulties.
(1) Pre-occupied soil. "The cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word and it becomes unfruitful."
(2) Fixedness of habit. Life's attitude is settled in thought, feeling, and will, and a change is possible only through the Spirit who can make all things new.