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HISTORICAL SKETCH OF THE EAST POINT BAPTIST CHURCH

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men, and inclined them, later on. to enter the fields of college life. Thus there was unconsciously created a strong background for the stirring events that followed in the great revival of 1874.

In 1874 old church life and habits of thought were gradually" Chang- ing. Theological beliefs were hecoming less austere, and religion was thought of more in terms of life and love, than creeds and dogma. Then came Evangelist D. G. Macdonald~fla man of kindly spirit and tactful approach, proclaiming a message that emphasized Calvary rather than Sinai. He was no pulpit orator, but a consecrated soul winner. His first sermon was significant, and the text, “Ask and you shall receive” was timely and vital. It found the people where they lived and they were prompt to respond. During Mr. Macdonald’s six or seven weeks, campaign eighty-five persons united with the church by baptism and six

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