Organizing for an Evangelistic Campaign
A. A. LEISKE: Pastor-Evangelist, Michigan Conference
For an evangelist Dwight D. Eisenhower's Crusade in Europe makes challenging reading. The organizational plans of that great genius are tremendous. Every point of the campaign came in review. The victories, the occupation, the possibility of failure, and un expected surprises all were weighed and re viewed in his master plan.
The plans for the preparation of the invasion took every aspect of the campaign into consideration; the manpower, field operations, supply lines, home base production in fact, the entire mobilization of the whole nation.
We are also engaged in a global war, but ours is a spiritual warfare, and therefore every major evangelistic campaign should require the mobilization of the entire church of God. The evangelist, as the general needs the full cooperation of not only the -local members of every church in the city but also every pastor and certainly the full backing of the conference officials.
The evangelist and his company can, of course, organize only to the extent of their equipment, finance, and manpower. And the first step toward proper organization of a campaign is to study the field and take inventory of all available manpower within the churches of the area. Yet even after all that is done, the volunteer army drawn from our churches, which can be recruited and relied upon, will always be but Gideon's three hundred against outnumbering thousands. Therefore I believe that God expects us to perfect our organization for the purpose of saving manpower. In permanent evangelistic centers rooms or offices should be arranged for interviews, councils, Bible studies, personal decisions, and special contacts during the evening song service. To operate such a program, naturally our own denominational centers, tabernacles, or buildings are very essential. If an auditorium is leased, the evangelistic company should make certain that they have full control of the building during the entire campaign. Only those who have had the experience can sympathize or understand the obstacles to be encountered when an army is shifted from pillar to post or from one meeting hall to another at the will of the enemy.
The second step toward such a tabernacle organization very seldom mentioned is the floor workers. A floor worker must have the spirit of discernment. These workers are very hard to find, but they are as important as is a good captain for a song leader. The floor worker must have the ability to recognize in the faces of the people the working of the Holy Spirit through the messages of the evangelist, and be able to guide them gradually to the ministers and Bible instructors for personal help.
This short-cut approach to the hearts of the people will not, of course, eliminate the daily visits of the workers but will double the influence of that visit when it is made. The ability to discern the heart longings of a member of the audience and to make the right approach is a great art.
Knowing how to train and utilize more of our manpower and thus preserve the energy of the workers is also a vital part of evangelistic organization. Many of our laymen can be trained to serve as successful floor workers or "fishers of men."
Using the Laity
We have had many evangelistic councils for more effective evangelism for our ministers, but I do think our home missionary brethren could render no more marvelous service to our greater evangelistic program than by training our good lay workers for this type of personal contact during a campaign. The work of God will not be finished by laymen alone, but through their united efforts with ministers. The counsel of the Lord is very clear on this particular point:
"The work of God in this earth can never be finished until the men and women comprising our church membership rally to the work, and unite their efforts with those of ministers and church officers." Gospel Workers, p. 352. (Italics supplied.)
Conference Leadership
A successful campaign demands the most wholehearted relationship between the evangelist and the president of the conference. The president must have full confidence in the leadership and ability of the evangelist, and the evangelist must likewise have explicit confidence in the president.
When a nation is at war the secret service is put on special alert for any movement or leaders among the populace to undermine the morale of the armed forces. So in an evangelistic campaign the president, as the head officer of the church, must be prepared to keep his eyes open, and, with the support of his associates in the office and in the field, be ready to counteract any and all influences that would undermine the morale of the evangelistic company, and so much the more as the victories of the evangelistic company multiply under the leadership of God. Satan just cannot endure progress in the house o£ God, and therefore he will use even preachers and petty officers and spiritual drones as fifth columnists in the field to undermine the morale of the evangelistic army.
It is the responsibility of conference officials not only to vote the finance of a campaign but also, under the hand of Providence, to give special leadership in keeping up the proper morale o£ an evangelistic company. God has always down through the ages raised up the right leadership for a specific time to protect His messengers against the full blast of the enemy. In the days of Mordecai there was an Esther. In the days of Luther there was a Duke Frederick, a Spalatin, and a vice-consul General Staupitz, who held back the venomous decrees and the wrath of the Papacy so that Luther might not feel the full impact of the enemy, thereby giving him an unseen shield to develop the Reformation into a mighty flame.
When the whole company understands the approach and method of the evangelist, and all understand their respective responsibilities and are willing to be anything or nothing in order that Christ may be everything, then we can be sure of God's blessing on the campaign. Organization, confidence, cooperation, and courage in God and in one another make success a certainty.
Correspondence School Evangelism
E. L. SHULL: Director, 20th Century Bible School, Potomac Conference
More than a year ago Joseph Conmack and his wife purchased a trailer. In harmony with an action of the Potomac Conference Committee, they chose as their field three counties in the extreme southwestern part of Virginia, all of which were almost completely unworked dark counties.
The first was Lee County. The trailer was located centrally in the county, and meetings were held in every section. By permission of the superintendent of schools they were able to use every schoolhouse free of charge. This in itself was a modern miracle, setting a precedent which opened the way for us on the same basis in another county.
Within three months meetings had been held in seventy-five towns and villages in the three counties, and nearly ten thousand had enrolled in the Twentieth Century Bible Course. To date forty-two have been baptized and scores are preparing for baptism as the result of this thorough seed-sowing program. You may ask, "How much did this all cost?" Not an extra penny; the offerings covered all expenses aside from salaries. A new church is in the making at Norton, and two other companies are to be organized in the other counties.
One young woman who took the Bible course and made her decision was instrumental in getting eight others of her family interested, four of whom have already been baptized all the result of the acceptance of the message by one member of the family. The value of this program is not measured alone by the immediate, direct results, but also by what it leads to in continuing interests and ever-widening influences.
This type of evangelism is not something new; it goes back to the days of Christ, when He went from village to village and from town to town. It was this fundamental seed-sowing work that prepared the way for the harvest after Pentecost. The disciples only reaped where He had sown.
If every pastor could take upon himself the burden of opening up such work in every village and town in the counties of his district, what a marvelous harvest would be forthcoming in the future! We would be fulfilling our duty to extend to every family the opportunity of hearing the Advent message. This form of evangelism offers real thrills and adventure, and I know of no method that is more thorough or more economical for real results.
Preparing Correspondence School Students for Baptism
JOSEPH CONMACK: Field Representative, 20th Century Bible School, Potomac Conference
The correspondence school method is real evangelism. We do not have to preach to thousands to be in evangelism. Read the account of Philip the evangelist in Acts 8, and the story of the woman at the well. I give here a few pointers from my experience in preparing Bible correspondence school students for baptism.
The first visit is useless unless followed through. It is best not to visit before the student reaches the eighteenth or twentieth lesson, and I have often found it advantageous to wait until after the course is completed.
When making such visits one naturally finds company there on occasions, but I usually find a way of calling the interested ones aside to talk privately. The making of a special trip to see them and the realization that one is on the King's business emphasize the importance of a definite interview.
A brief checkup on the fundamental points of the Bible can well be made in the first visit. Their attitude toward the Sabbath, the nature of man, the destruction of sinners, diet, et cetera, will tell you a great deal. It is always safe to encourage them to begin to keep the Sabbath.
On the second and third visits one can re view those subjects on which -the people are weak, instructing them in proper Sabbath observance and tithe paying. From five to eight visits are usually needed really to prepare people for baptism.
A lending library is indispensable for binding off this type of interest. The Great Controversy, Ministry of Healing, and some of the smaller books are essential for them to read; we cannot make good Seventh-day Adventists without them. I have found in nearly ten years in this correspondence work at home and abroad that interests resulting from the literature ministry are the most substantial and long lasting.
It is fundamentally important to hold Sab bath services in a central location of your interested area. If people refuse to make an effort to attend these meetings, their interest is not very high. At these meetings appeals should be made and opportunity frequently given for these people to go all the way with Christ and be baptized.
If it is possible for interested ones to attend the nearest churches when strong decision subjects are presented, they will be helped to make their decision and prepare for baptism. This also acquaints them with our people. Our own members should be instructed to be especially friendly with these new ones.
Those who are isolated from meetings may join the conference church and Sabbath school after they are rooted and grounded, and all the new members should be especially encouraged to subscribe to the Review and Herald and the Signs of the Times and to buy all our larger books on a systematic plan.
Methods of Bible School Follow-up Work
1. Secure a good county map showing all the secondary roads and trails. Without it the task is most difficult, if not impossible.
2. Make the acquaintance of the various postmasters. They can save you miles and hours. Giving them a small picture such as Harry Anderson's masterpiece What Happened to Your Hand? Gains their favor; they appreciate it, and take a much greater interest in seeing that the correspondence lessons reach the students.
3. When looking up names it is very important to check the initials carefully, or you may find yourself looking up the wrong person. Check with the local grocery store to find the exact location o£ the person. They usually know.
4. How can one solve the problem of too many names for the monthly gas allowance to reach them all? I solved that problem by carrying a small 125 Harley Davidson Motorcycle on the midget trailer from the rear of the car. I parked the car in a central section and used the motorcycle from there on. It gave nearly one hundred miles per gallon and many thrills. In addition it gave me good exercise and saved the car from some terrible roads, enabling me to reach some places where a car could never go. There are only a few months of the year when one cannot use this method. The rain problem can be solved by carrying an army raincoat and hat in the side bag. Another solution to the problem would be to drive a car that gets extra high gas mileage, such as the new Nash Rambler station wagon.
5. It is important to follow up every name. The person who you may thing is too difficult to find may prove to be the one who will accept the message and win many others. It is not unusual for six, eight, or ten people to come in as the result of one person's completing the course. Whole churches have been raised up from one good interest. One interest followed through faithfully may be the equivalent in results of one small evangelistic effort. Treat each name as a sacred trust.
Why So Many Denominations?
The original published version of this article contains one or more illustrations. To view the illustrations, please view the PDF version of this issue which can be found in our archives
J. A. BUCKWALTER: Associate Secretary, American Temperance Society
The purpose of this sermon on "Why Are There So Many Denominations?" or the origin of paganism, Catholicism, and Protestantism is to prove that the true faith which was once delivered to the saints consists of the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, and that God's true message today delivered in the gospel ultimatum of Revelation 18:4 is calling the faithful of all faiths back to that original standard. The sermon traces the various apostasies through the ages, and stresses the most outstanding divine interventions of history. The theme is developed as follows. Only the principal points brought out are briefly listed here and on the chart.
1. The text: Jude 3, 4.Thought emphasized is expression "the faith which was once delivered unto the saints." Attention of hearers called to fact that God declares true faith was once delivered to man by God Himself.
2. Second point made is that God has defined in Bible just what constitutes this faith which was once delivered to saints. We are not reading any denominational definition of that faith from either Catholic or Protestant sources. God's definition of faith once delivered to saints is found in Revelation 14:12. There need not be any confusion about what this faith is that God once de livered to saints.
3. From here on contrast of true faith with apostasy is divided into five divisions.
a. The antediluvian apostasy.
b. Pagan apostasy.
c. Papal apostasy.
d. Protestant apostasy.
e. World apostasy.
4. From book of Genesis proof is taken to show that religion of man in Garden of Eden was obedience to commandments of God. (Gen. 2:16.) Attention of audience is called to fact that there is only one commandment of God that the modern Christian world calls into question. Then it is shown from Genesis 2:2, 3 that in Garden of Eden first act of God in establishment of religion was to set apart seventh day of first week of time as Sabbath. True observance of Sabbath is Creator worship.
5. Next point made is that after man's expulsion from Eden the faith of Jesus was added to commandments of God, and in offering of sacrifices was revealed plan of salvation; thus ever since that time commandments of God and faith of Jesus have continued as God's true faith.
6. Development of antediluvian apostasy is traced from Cain's rebellion against the plan of faith of Jesus by failing to offer a lamb as a sacrifice. Reference is made to history of Phoenicians, which states that Cain and his wife turned to sun worship. This apostasy reached its climax and was destroyed by Flood.
7. Second division of sermon corresponds with second chart dealing with beginning of pagan apostasy at Babel. This was a united determination to disobey a command of God. It was a first attempt at world federation. Attention of audience is called to fact that words Babel, Babylon, and confusion are synonymous terms. It is also shown that though man first called the tower "the gate of God," disobedience gave it new name, "confusion." Then shown that term confusion or Rabylon is term Scriptures used to designate various forms of apostate religion. It is pointed out that paganism developed as result of rejection of commandments of God and perversion of faith of Jesus.
8. Manner in which God dealt with pagan apostasy should be carefully explained. In order to preserve the true faith He called Abraham out of his country and from his people to be keeper of God's law and pre server of faith of Jesus. Through Abraham people of Israel God sought to preserve His truth to mankind. When Israel aposta tized even to extent of accepting teachings of sun worshipers, God intervened again by sending His Son to world.
9. Teachings of Christ re-emphasized commandments of God and faith of Jesus. Jesus said that He Himself was "the way, the truth, and the life." John 14:6. Told in 2 John 9 that "whosoever transgresseth . . . abideth not in the doctrine of Christ." Attention of audience called to fact that this text clearly declares that for one to transgress commandments of God is to cease to abide in doctrine of Christ. Then falling away and revealing of man of sin and papal apostasy are outlined step by step. Special reference made to pagan doctrines of Romanism.
10. In studying origin of Protestantism attention given to development of various de nominations, showing how God attempted to restore His truth to mankind, but how fatal error of Protestantism formation of denominational creeds limited peoples of these various communions to only a portion of truth. Effort made to have people realize basic principles that gave birth to Protestant movement. Challenge of John Robin son to Pilgrim Fathers as they were leaving shores of old country to find a new world, where they might worship God according to dictates of their conscience, is given prominent attention.
11. New groups of earnest seekers after truth arose, and there was a steady progression toward the standard until at last remnant church of prophecy appeared upon stage. This remnant church known by its adherence to commandments of God and faith once delivered to saints. Failure of Protestantism in general to come all the way out of Babylon led to confusion, modernism, evolution, etc.
12. Last chart answers question, "Through what message will God bring the faithful of all faiths and modern Christendom back to the faith that was once delivered, unto the saints?" Here Revelation 18:4 is presented as God's heart appeal to His people in all denominations of today. It is a call to a new revival. Comparison shown between God's tall to His people today and to His people anciently. Attention of hearers focused upon words of Revelation 18:4 as constituting God's last reformation. Jesus would not tall anyone out of Babylon unless it was necessary for him to come. Final division «[ modern Christendom clearly indicated, and result of either choice clearly foretold. Call of Revelation 18:4 presents greatest religious issue confronting modern civilization. Will it be Babylon, or remnant? commandments of God, or traditions of men? church-state federation, or final reformation? At portal of Eden restored are words of Revelation 22:14. Appeal that follows is a call for men and women to come out of Babylon, and take their stand with God's remnant people.
The foregoing points are but a brief explanation of the progress of thought and objectives that (could be developed in a sermon on this subject.
[ Elder Buckwalter has a limited supply of brochures containing a synopsis of his address on "Why Are There So Many Denominations?" Those who wish a copy may write him in care of the General Conference. EDITORS.]
Evangelistic Teams in South Africa
B. L. HASSENPFLUG :Evangelist, South African Union Conference
Many centuries ago God told His people that "five of you shall chase an hundred, and an hundred of you shall put ten thousand to flight." We can readily see the increased power in a proper combination of workers. Somehow God has seen fit to endow us each with different capabilities, and when several of these are combined in the right proportions, a mighty working power develops to God's glory. Our soul-winning power is greatly multiplied by such combinations.
In order for a team to develop into such a mighty power for God, there must be close harmony in it. This calls for patience, tact, careful planning, and very close cooperation. Although the evangelist is usually considered the leader of the team, the singing evangelist should be given full recognition for his part in the campaign; and if he is an older man or is ordained, he should be on an equal standing with the evangelist. The two of them must plan their program so that one thoroughly supports the other. They are each a vital part of a complete whole. As far as their work is concerned, their interests, aims, and plans must be the same. Realizing the dangers that lurk ever near, they must uphold each other in such a way that everything that is done will tell for God and His one united remnant church the world around.
Our South Alrican Union Conference evangelistic team for Europeans was formed in September of 1949 with the writer as evangelist and H. R. Turner as singing evangelist. The evangelistic quartet, which is composed of the evangelists and their wives, has contributed more than its share to the success of this project.
The formation of this team has brought new impetus to the evangelistic program in South Africa. The effect on the public here has been electrifying as they have seen a combination of gospel preaching and singing to the glory of God. We modestly report that many have even , gone so far as to refer to this team as a modern Moody-and-Sankey; combination. It has produced a wonderful reaction for this truth among un believers. It has elevated our work to a new and higher standing in their sight. We praise God for that!
In the eight months that we have been holding meetings in Johannesburg, the gold capital of the world, God has blessed us with ISO baptisms to date. Many more are preparing or fellowship in His remnant church. We gradually give Him the glory and praise His name for these precious souls. Our own believers have received a new glimpse of the unity, harmony, and cooperation that can exist, and must exist, among us as workers and also as laymen if we are to finish our gospel task in this generation.
The need for more such teams in South Africa is apparent. It is an urgent need. How much each conference and mission field in this division needs such a team! There are many precious souls just waiting to be gathered in. They must be brought to a knowledge of this truth before Jesus can come. Let us all as leaders and workers everywhere arise and go forward in a mighty surge to finish the work so Jesus can come and take us home to glory.
