Doctrines to Be Emphasized in Evangelism 23 There are some other doctrines, of a persuading character, such as Love, Heaven, Hope, Rewards, that may be empha sized to advantage in an evangelistic campaign; but, those I have enumerated will most surely be owned of God in the sal vation of souls, if proclaimed as they should be. In going about among the churches as I do, I find three things increasingly true. First, Ministers and people in large numbers are awakening to the fact that the so-called “new theology” and up-to-date methods are utterly barren of spir itual results. Prof. A. H. Sayce once said, “Higher criticism saves no souls.” Second, Because of this indisputable fact, very many are turning again to the doctrines of the historic faith, for it is seen that they are still workable and produce results as in former times. Third, Great numbers of ministers are seeing that their ministry is a failure unless it results in the salvation of souls. They really feel as did the late Henry Ward Beecher. While conducting an evangelistic campaign in Brooklyn Tabernacle I one day met Mr. Beecher. As he held my right hand in both of his, he said: “I hear you are having a great blessing in your meetings with Dr. Talmage. I very much wish we could have you for a campaign in Ply mouth Church.” He trembled as he held my hand. He then said, “But I fear my people would not stand for it.” Then, after hesitating for a few minutes he added, “I would like to see an old-time Holy Ghost revival in Plymouth Church before I go hence.” He then broke down and, cried as if his heart would break. Three weeks later, to a day, his body was laid in the grave. Life and opportunity are ours. Men are dying, and the whole world lieth in the wicked one, lost in the ruin of sin. Redemption is an accomplished fact, and salvation is possible for all. We have been chosen to tell out the message of life and hope; and are assured of glorious success if faithful; if unfaithful we had better never been born.
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