A Successful Tent Meeting
By A. G. Haughey
How to conduct a successful tent meeting is the great question that comes to almost every Seventh-day Adventist minister, over and over again, while the warm days of spring and summer are passing. I do not claim to be able fully to answer this question, but I desire to offer a few suggestions, hoping that they may be helpful to some one. Let two workers labor together. Where one is weak in his presentation of the truth, the other may be strong. When possible, sisters should compose a part of the company, the wife or daughter of the minister being the most appropriate lady helper. All these workers should know God, and should work harmoniously together with him. The workers should have a district or territory assigned to them, and then together should ask God to lead them to the part of that territory or field which is ripe unto the harvest; then enter it in faith, and quietly secure a site for the tent, always remembering that the Lord does not begin the establishment of his work in the ill-kept portion of the town or city. In no case advertise the meetings till you are upon the ground, to remain. A medium-sized tent, say twenty-four by thirty-six feet, rectangular in shape, with a double top, is usually the most suitable. Family tents sufficient to provide quarters for all the laborers are necessary equipments. The large tents should be well lighted, and neatly seated with portable seats. An organ is also a great help when properly used. In most cases a lady from the village or city can be obtained to act as organist. Secure such help if possible. Then get all those who can sing to help with the music, but never allow yourself to think you can sing people into the truth. The message must be proclaimed. To keep the faith of Jesus is to see the fruitage of your work, a harvest of souls. Nothing but the teaching of the Word will bring this result. The Word is profitable; the Word received has power to10convict and convert. The power is not in the minister except as he has the Word; so be sure that you preach the Word. The apostle gives the order: the “doctrine,” “reproof,” “correction,” then “instruction in righteousness.” Much visiting must be done as you begin your effort. More visiting with the people is needed as the work progresses. The most visiting and praying with the interested individuals is essential as they are deciding to obey, and while they are “babes in Christ.” Never leave newly born babes in Christ till they learn to walk. Stay by your work, even if it takes all summer and winter to establish the standard of truth in your field. One soul saved is worth many who have been warned, yet left uninstructed to wander about.