But in this matter we should act with discretion. There are conscientious persons who think it their duty to talk freely upon points of faith on which there is a difference of opinion, in a manner which arouses the combativeness of those with whom they converse. One such premature, injudicious effort may close the ears of one who otherwise would have heard patiently, but who will now influence others unfavorably. Thus spring up the roots of bitterness, whereby many are defiled. Through the indiscretion of one, the ears and hearts of many may be closed to the truth. {Ev 542.3}

Alle kender til at ivrige religiøse mennesker fra forskellige sekter, udviser meget lidt åbenhed over for dem som har andre synspunkter på religiøse punkter. Mennesker i denne klasse forventer at møde den samme urimelighed blandt syvendedags adventister, og så tager de deres rustning på, parat til at modstå alt som vil reflektere på deres særlige synspunkter.