The Great Invitation

by Erroll Hulse

How do we assess the effect of an evangelistic meeting or campaign? Are we right to judge its success or failure by the number of people who go forward or sign a card? There can, of course, be no greater or more important invitation to men and women than that of the gospel. The preacher should never feel any inhibitions in declaring the free offer of salvation in Christ. But does this mean that we are at liberty to use any method that appears to get results? Is the appeal or altar call a justified method of encouraging that final commitment, or is it an unwarranted addition to the inherent power of the gospel? This is controversial and may come as a shock to many who have never considered the rights or wrongs of the invitation system before. The authors desire is that all Christians think the issue through and ensure that the Great Invitation of the gospel is not based on modern trends or cultural pressures for instant success, but on the sure foundation of the Word of God.

Genres: Evangelism

Paperback

First published January 1, 1993

Reviews

[Jeanne Hochstetler · Rating 4 out of 5]

This information is so relevant today. He has an understandable way of showing that sinners seeking to secure their own salvation by a decision is not only nonbiblical but explains why it is so harmful to a church body. He continually stresses that regeneration is the work of the Holy Spirit to produce faith in the sinner. Hulse gives historical examples of past preachers who did not use the "invitation system" yet God used them to win souls. This book is not only for the Christian in the pew but for preachers and evangelists. Don't miss reading a single word from this book. It is truly a gem.

[Jason D McGrath · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hulse says you may skip the earlier chapters if you like to get to the more "controversial" chapters. I wouldn't do it if I were you. There's gold in them chapters. The section of "preparationism" (as in God's pre-conversion preparation) was fascinating to me and I will definitely be studying that more.