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There was a time - not so long ago - when the blessed truths of the Gospel were common knowledge. These truths were regularly preached from the pulpit. Many church-goers were largely familiar with this message. Of late a generation has grown up who is almost ignorant of these precious truths. These biblical truths are not given a prominent place in today’s sermons. Many evangelical churches adopt techniques that are used in politics. Preachers are no longer invited because of their insight into biblical truth, but on account of their personal popularity. As soon as some elders or church members voice their discontent about such sermons, the preacher will be “disposed of”. This tendency is strengthened by the fact that many youngsters are turning their backs on church attendance. The result is that services should to a large extent cater to what young people like. Religious gatherings must have a high entertainment level. Therefore sermons should be pleasant, witty and in no way confronting.

Modern evangelism is organized on the same lines. It is customary to start telling people how wonderful it is to know and accept Jesus. He will remove all our problems and keep us happy. He will cure us of all our diseases. Is that the evangelism we come across in the epistles? Are people in the New Testament invited by such promises? The key to evangelism is clearly explained in St.Matthew’s Gospel. When Joseph learns that Mary, his bride-to-be is pregnant, he had a good mind to divorce her quietly. But then we read early on in Matthew 1:20-21 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said: Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins. Here we read beyond the shadow of a doubt that Jesus’ coming was not meant to make people happy, but to deliver them from their sins. ×