Evangelism Dying Out

Pacific Press Publishing Association · Mountain View, California · Sep 2, 1913

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 40, No. 34.

Evangelism Dying Out.

The question “Is evangelism dying out?” has been raised in the Christian Herald, and the suggestion made that there should be an “Evangelistic National Federation.” Some correspondents believe that it is not dying out; but their very approval of such a federation, and their anxiety for it, clearly show their fears. One man—James Scovill—who says that he has been “an evangelist, working in the churches for many years,” associated with Moody and Sankey, declares: “It is a sad but very real fact that evangelism is dying out. And why?—First, because in many pulpits infidelity has come in, and the great foundation truths of the Bible are not preached; and secondly, in many churches most of the members have become lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God.” There are many truly evangelical pastors, but Mr. Scovill speaks truly of the general trend. Yet God calls for the preaching of His “everlasting gospel” now, and hungry hearts are waiting to receive it. But to be effective it must be given in God’s setting and in His way.