RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY.

Dominion, Volume 6, Issue 1687, 1 March 1913, Page 11

RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY.

FREE CHURCH FIGURES. SOME -CAUSES AND SUGGESTED . . REMEDIES. In viow of lho depressing figures concerning the strength of the Baptist and Congregational Churches, analysed in tho "Westminster Gazette" recently, a representative of that paper sought information upon the lessons thus suggested. Two causes were' mentioned as contributing to tho decline, but the consensus of opinion amongst a number of wellinformed men who havo been consulted is that many -factors contribute to tho decline. It is impossible to name ono or two circumstances or reasons and lay the blame at their door. In order, however, to indicate tho trend of-thought on. the subject in tho denominations, interviews have been sought so that expression might be given to 6ome of these opinions. Members both of tho Baptist and Congregational Churches havo joined in this symposium.

"The Baptists," replied one of these contributors, "do not to-day emphasiso the distinctive doctrino which brought their Church into existence. Hero and there this is peached and faithfully carried on, but in the majority of instances it seems to havo receded into tho background in the Churches adopting open communion. Endeavours have been made to revive tho teaching and to give it force and value in the life of the Church, but the influence only appears to be spasmodic, without any strong momentum behind it. Liberty is asked and given,' and this distinctive article of faith in Baptist Church life is not held with tho tenacity manifested by former generations. Instead of producing literature and 6ermons, as in tho old days, tho modern Baptist is usually content to consider immersion not as an accompaniment of the profession of faith expeoted of all believers, in obedience to Divine command, but as a religious rito sanctioned by custom. It has therefore lost its vital meaning. "Many arguments may be used in support of this change of thought on tho subject of immersion. It has probably induced a friendlier feeling towards Congrcgationalists. But the weakening of an essential _ doctrino must operate against tho vitality and strength of tho. Baptist Church. A motive force. is lessened, and men and women enter the Church in a spirit of nebulous liberty."