The cities of the world are the strategic centers of civilization as we know it today; they are its nerve and storm centers; and they are the battle ground where the principles of the third angel's message must oppose in, deadly conflict the hoary systems of man-made creeds. Prejudice is becoming stronger every day, and the opposition of the world more pronounced; doors of opportunity are closing one by one; whatever is done must be done quickly; delay means infinite loss to countless numbers.
As we enter the average city in the United States (and the same conditions obtain in greater or less degree in cities everywhere), we are met with a population composed of various nationalities and of every degree of intellectual bias and morality. These may be divided into three classes,—the rich, the middle class, and the poor. Therefore, the district and the people living in and near it are the first to consider. In starting our work, it has been proved an advantage to work for the middle class first.
Having decided the 'class of people for whom to labor, the next step is the location of the tent, if one is to be used. It is often difficult to find available ground suitable for a tent or tabernacle away from the noise of traffic, and yet so situated as to command attention and respect. If you are fortunate enough to secure such a place, the preparation Of the grounds and the arrangeinent of the tent are next in order. A neat and attractive appearance will do much in drawing the people. It is unnecessary to add that special attention should be given to the singing and other music, all of which should be simple, and in harmony with the message. Any attempt to follow the world's methods distracts from the impression we desire to make.
Advertising the meetings is another important feature, and demands careful consideration. The great business corporations of today are continually seeking new methods of interesting the public in the business they are conducting. Noting the success that has come to those using these methods, the question naturally arises, Shall we adopt the customs of the world, and employ new and novel schemes to introduce the third angel's message? or shall we make it our first aim to have it bear the stamp of heaven? In Jeremiah 6:16 it is written, "Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein." It is well for us to remember that the third angel's message has attained its present standing and owes its marvelous growth to the simple methods adopted in the beginning.
When John came from the wilderness to Bethabara, one of the cities of Palestine, priests and Levites came inquiring, "Who art thou? . . . What sayest thou of thyself?" John modestly answered, "I am the voice." It is not the man bringing the truth who is to be honored, but the truth that the man brings. "Who then is Paul and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed?" Peter says, "Ye are . . . a peculiar people [not like the world]; that ye should show forth the praises [virtues or good qualities] of Him who bath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light."
We are agents representing to the world the character of Christ. If we were going out as salesmen to represent a great clothing house, we should wear the most up-to-date clothing; as representatives of God's house, we must be clothed with the garment woven in the looms of heaven, the righteousness of Christ.
When our workers bear these divine credentials, and the word of God is preached plainly and simply, in the power and demonstration of the Holy Spirit, the miracle of Pentecost will be witnessed again, and the early triumphs of the gospel will be repeated in adding daily to the church such as shall be saved.
The programs should be neat, with each subject standing out clearly, and should be distributed by consecrated workers. In this work the church has an opportunity to become acquainted with the people, and to awaken an interest in the message in many hearts.
Appropriate literature bearing on the subject presented should be given out at the close of each service. Some such announcement as the following will help in securing names and addresses: "If you will give us your name and address, we will see that you get the study every night." Flood the district in which you work with tracts and papers.
As the people become interested, those who manifest special interest should be visited by competent Bible workers, who go over with them the same ground covered by the evangelist, working patiently, answering questions, and making plain the things not understood. The more extensive the influence in personal work, the greater the number who will finally accept the truth.
In binding off city work, more care is necessary than in rural districts, and we have learned not to be hasty in taking new members into the church. David Livingstone once said, "Nothing will induce me to form an impure church; fifty added to the church sounds fine at home; but if only five of these are genuine, what will it profit in the great day?" The great object of all our labors should always be genuine conversions.
In summing up the work in the cities, we suggest for consideration:
1. The district or nationality. The class—rich, middle, poor.
2. The location of the tent—a place that commands attention and respect, yet is away from traffic.
3. The arrangement of the tent—well lighted, attractive, the ground covered and protected.
4. Advertising—neat programs in keeping with the message, and making prominent the message rather than the man. The church members should assist in distributing the programs, and meet as many of the people as possible.
5. Preaching the word of God—the subjects to be well arranged and given in their order. The minister must be earnest and serious, and must feel the need of the Holy Spirit.
6. Singing—hymns on the message.
7. Literature—a good display of our books for sale. Flood the district with Present Truth, Signs of the Times, and tracts; get names and addresses.
8. Competent and consecrated Bible workers.
9. Binding off the work—give thorough instruction.
10. Plan to make the effort self-supporting.
Chicago, Ill.
