A SPECIMEN CONVERSION by W. N. G.

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Apr 15, 1897

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 23, No. 15.

A SPECIMEN CONVERSION.

By W. N. G.

An illustration of the manner of conversion in a large “evangelical” church in this city came under our notice recently. A young lady rose once upon call in one of the meetings held by a noted revivalist, and gave her name on one of the blank cards passed around for the purpose. This was her only experience—simply standing up once, upon call. A week or so afterward, the pastor of the church where she was an occasional attendant called upon her. He merely referred to the fact that he had her name as one who had risen in the revival meeting, and stated that the next Sunday was communion day and she could come and join the church. He asked no question as to her religious experience, nor gave her any instruction as to religious duty. She was to come Sunday morning and join the church, that was all. This was on Friday; the next afternoon she attended a matinee at a theater, and on Sunday morning was taken into the church without further ceremony. Speaking of the matter to an acquaintance, this young “convert” said one could be a Christian according to her idea and go to theaters. It is not surprising that she should entertain such an idea, when the pastor of the church to which she is united manifests such a conception of conversion and church-membership. It is from this low standard of Christian profession and life that comes the “Christian Citizenship” idea of sustaining Christianity by means of the ballot and civil law. You will always find such pastors ready to uphold enforced Sunday observance, and kindred measures. And what else could be expected? Knowing nothing practically of the power of the Spirit, they naturally turn to the power that is in sight.

W. N. G.