From BT Roberts, in Pungent Truths (published 1912), a book compiled from the editorial paragraphs written while he was editor of The Free Methodist (HT: @RealBTRoberts, via Twitter):
The wicked are not wholly destitute of the Spirit of God. Bad as they are, they would be much worse were it not for his restraining influence. Many a hand that has been raised to kill, has been held back by the unseen power of the Divine Spirit. Men who never listen to a sermon, or read a good book, often hear a still, small voice endeavoring to persuade them to abandon their sins and lead a better life. It was to those who were hopelessly wicked that God said: “My Spirit shall not always strive with man” (Gen. 6:3). When he ceased to strive with them, sudden destruction came upon them.So do not be afraid to go to the very wicked with words of warning and with offers of mercy. The Spirit of God has gone before you and prepared the way. Gain the confidence of a wicked man, so he will speak freely with you, and you will be astonished to find how much God has been talking to him. The Spirit has been striving with him when those who knew him supposed he was utterly hardened.
The full book is available online here: Pungent Truths
