The Fundamentals - 1910: Vol.12

Doctrines to Be Emphasized in Evangelism 13 or have turned their pulpits into lecture platforms, and the members going for bread received a stone; and in many cases were off after false teachers who promised them what they needed, and what they should have received at home. Third, The positively bad example set by a large majority of the mem­ bers of most churches, in that they conspicuously fail to meet their solemn obligations to God and the church. And there are yet other reasons for the falling away of the weak and inexperienced. But again it is asked, “What constitutes successful evan­ gelism?” I answer, “Preaching the Gospel according to Divine Conditions and directions.” In the great commission, as given by Matthew, Jesus said, “Teach all nations.” Make disciples, is what the word “teach” here means. Mark puts it in these words, “Preach the Gospel to every creature.” Luke states it thus, “Repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations.” And in Acts 1:8, Jesus said, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jeru­ salem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the utter­ most part of the earth.” THE CONDITIONS What are the conditions? First, Discipleship. Jesus com­ missioned only such. One must know, experimentally, the power and joy of the Gospel before he is competent to tell it out. Second, Power. The disciples were told to “Tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem until ye be endued with power from on high.” Since the apostles and disciples of our Lord, who waited personally upon His wonderful ministry and witnessed His marvelous doings, were not qualified for testimony and service without power from on high, we, most surely, must have Divine help. “Without Me ye can do nothing.” Third, Faith, —since the Almighty One has said, “For as

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