Few things are more vital to the success of a meeting than atmosphere. Organization, sequence of subjects, logical presentation of the truth—all have their place, but without "atmosphere" these very things become cold, formal, and trite. Spiritual growth requires spiritual atmosphere.
Many things combine to make evangelistic atmosphere, A wholesome spirit of comradeship among the workers and helpers is fundamental. This is quickly felt and unconsciously communicated to the audience. It reacts in a feeling of ease and confidence. Friendships soon form, and interests quickly develop. As every experienced evangelist knows, acquaintances are easily formed as people come into the meeting. Workers who are wide-awake to their opportunities will take time to talk with the newly interested ones.
While one is conversing quietly with these and while others are coming in, let the inside lights be lowered, and a few beautiful scenes thrown on the screen before the song service begins. This will greatly aid in creating atmosphere and preparing the people for the message of the evening. Sunset scenes are excellent, for these have a quieting effect on any group. Soft, meditative music accompanying these scenes will add much to their effectiveness. A muted violin well accompanied is excellent. Organ records, amplified through the public-address system, cannot be excelled. Seven to ten minutes of such meditation will do more for an audience than most other things. It creates a worshipful atmosphere.
At the conclusion, while the lights are still low, one may project on the screen a song such as that new one, "Beyond the Sunset" (included in the new evangelistic songbook). Then the audience will be ready for whatever the song leader has prepared. If, as a wise builder, while still leading the audience in song, he then guards against introducing anything that would destroy this atmosphere, the effect can be carried through to the end of the meeting ; and those attending such a meeting will not only have met with each other, they will have met with God.
Whether it be an evangelistic or a worship service, the right atmosphere is imperative. "Atmosphere" may not be easily defined, for it embraces a number of things. But a spiritual leader must study how to create the atmosphere essential for both worship and evangelism.
The counsel of the Lord is very definite on this point : "Our meetings . . . should be pervaded with the very atmosphere of heaven."—E. G. White, Review and Herald, Nov. 30, 1886.
"When every other voice is hushed, and in quietness we wait before Him, the silence of the soul makes more distinct the voice of God. He bids us, 'Be still, and know that I am God.' Here alone can true rest be found. And this is the effectual preparation for all labor for God."—"The Desire of Ages," p. 363.
"We all lose much sweet communion with God by our restlessness, by not encouraging moments of reflection and prayer."—"Testimovies," Vol. V, p. 492.
Important revelations are made only when the mood matches the moment. "I will now turn aside, and see this great sight," said Moses. The "great sight* was only a scrubby thorn bush, but it was marvelous to see because God was there, and Moses was in the mood to hear His voice. Our audiences will hear God's voice more audibly if we create the atmosphere and set the mood.
"Every Man a Potential Adventist"
Some years ago we asked one of OM most successful personal soul winners the secret of his success. His answer was simple but arresting. He replied, quite modestly, "Whatever success the Lord has given me I would attribute to two things—prayer and the conviction that God wants men—all men—to be saved." Then he added, "Every man who walks down the street is to me a potential Adventist."
Here was no special technique but rather an evangelistic attitude. Every man a potential Adventist ! That is a good slogan for evangelism. Sometimes we speak of 'the honest in heart," without stopping to ponder the implications of such an expression. Because some do not immediately accept the message, should it be implied that they are dishonest? Their very hesitancy may be because of their honesty. Is not our work to make the treasures of truth so attractive that even these hesitating ones, and those who seem so far away through ignorance or opposition, will be led to sell all to obtain the pearl of great price?
The Saviour worked in this way, for He discerned in all, however fallen and afar off, those who might be restored to divine relationship : "In every human being He discerned infinite possibilities. He saw men as they might be, transfigured by His grace,—in 'the beauty of the Lord our God.' Looking upon them with hope, He inspired hope. Meeting them with confidence, He inspired trust. Revealing in Himself man's true ideal, He awakened, for its attainment, both desire and faith."—"Education," p. 80.
R. A. A.
