Editorial September 26, 1903 Issue

Giving and Gain

W. with contributions from W.

Much is said nowadays by religious writers respecting an alleged decline of spiritual earnestness and activity, and not a few facts, such as the passing of revival movements, the indifference to Sabbath observance, the falling off in church attendance, the free and frequent criticism of creeds and dogmas, etc., may be cited in support of the contention; but in one respect the religious world is certainly establishing a record; namely, in its giving.

The raising of enormous twentieth century funds by various denominations has drawn special attention to the subject, and a religious weekly before us gives figures which have authorized the conclusion that about three hundred million dollars is annually contributed in the United States for the support of religious services and institutions, while not less than a billion dollars per annum are expended in the support and propagation of Christianity throughout the world. If, therefore, the amount devoted to Christian enterprise were a true measure of the presence and activity of the Christ-life, these figures might well awaken the greatest enthusiasm.

The doubter may have some reason to aver that men often given money to the church to atone for the fact that they are not willing to give hearts to God, and that it is far easier for men to be generous subscribers to religious endowments than to manifest the spirit of Christ in the conduct of their business, and in their attitude toward their fellow-men; but in very large part it is certainly true that this giving does represent a genuine Christian impulse of love and self-sacrifice for others,—a heroism of earnest and conscientious endeavor which is equally splendid and pathetic, for it represents a faith that has been bravely indifferent to disappointment in results.

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