(Excerpt from the book:  The Seven M's of Missionary Service, by Carlos E. Asay, 1996, p. 37.)

           GOSPEL PERSPECTIVE--AN ANALOGY

            The four questions related to the great plan of salvation constitute
a gospel perspective.  This perspective related to purpose, plan, people
and power is understood more clearly by drawing the following analogy:

l.   God's purpose may be likened to a desired destination--a place or
     state of being that we all want to reach.

2.  God's plan may be likened to a road map--a map which, if followed,
     will lead us up the strait and narrow way to our desired destination.

3.  God's people or church may be likened to a vehicle or a means of
     transportation used in carrying the Saints along the proper course
     to the desired destination.

4.  God's power or priesthood may be likened to the petrol or gasoline
     used to propel the people and the Church forward along the approved
     route leading to the ultimate destination, even eternal life.
 

        Perhaps the analogy drawn is an oversimplification of something very
sacred and wonderful.  But if these truths are not clearly understood, few
members and missionaries will have the desire to share the message of
the restored gospel and kingdom of God established on the earth.
 

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