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GOSPEL MEETINGS
“I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ
for it is the power of God unto salvation.” (Romans 1:16)
Some churches hold that the day of the gospel meeting
has passed. They base this on the realization that we no longer
baptize large numbers during such meetings as was often the case
a generation ago. In days gone by the gospel was so attractive that
those who were taught it often readily received it. The love of
truth is not as obvious today. People are preoccupied and indifferent
toward the gospel. But though the baptisms are not as numerous,
gospel meetings continue to be effective.
The late brother Guy N. Woods possibly held more
meetings than any preacher. In an article which appeared in the
Gospel Advocate some years ago he listed several “benefits
of a gospel meeting.”
An opportunity is afforded those not members of
the church, but active in religious work elsewhere, to attend services
on evenings which do not conflict with their own services…
The church is privileged to hear speakers who through
experience, or special training, are especially prepared to bring
concentrated lessons of great value.
The local preacher profits through the association
and fellowship which results from the coming of the visiting preacher.
Brethren and sisters from neighboring congregations
are enabled to see the local church in action, to become better
acquainted therewith.
In every congregation there are those who never
attend gospel meetings during the week, seldom will the week-night
attendance match that of the Sunday morning attendance. This is
not a fault of the gospel meeting. It simply reveals the low level
of interest that some have for the cause of Christ.
We should not allow the indifference of others
to stifle the Lord’s work. Brother Woods observed further:
Those who travel widely in the brotherhood are aware that those
congregations that conduct few or no meetings are in a dormant state
and will gradually cease to be a potent factor in their community.
There is no substitute for the gospel meeting. — Author
Unknown
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South Florida Avenue Messenger
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