The nineteen-year period covered by the counsels contained in this volume was a time of expansion in the work of Seventh-day Adventists. In the preceding decades, the foundations of doctrine were laid, the work of the church was organized, and the major branches of church activity, such as publishing, medical, and educational work, were initiated. These were beginning to present opportunities for service in foreign mission fields.

The instructions given during that critical period to guide and protect the church and edify its members speak to our hearts today as we face similar opportunities, problems, and responsibilities.