It is probable that the leaders of the Christian Church who wrought heroically in the crisis of the church's history in time past little understood at the time the far-reaching effect of their action. Only as such matters are viewed in the perspective of history is it possible rightly to appraise their value. And in the present critical religious situation in which we find ourselves, we are in danger of regarding too lightly the problems which confront us. Beyond question, the future of evangelical religion will be largely influenced by the attitude the Christian leaders of today assume toward the forces of disintegration which are now at work in the Christian church. It is therefore necessary that we should come to the consideration of such matters as here engage our attention, with a due sense of their importance, and with a solemn appreciation of the possibly far-reaching effect of the stand we take.

Our subject is not a matter which wise men will treat lightly. On the contrary, it is a matter of serious moment which must have its bearing upon the faith, and character and destiny, of multitudes of people in the days that are to come.

WHAT IS MODERNISM? In order to know how to treat with it, we must have some understanding of its character; or, indeed, to use a stronger word, of its real nature. Is modernism a friendly but deluded admirer of the Christian faith? Is it merely a plausible negation which can have but little effect upon the church's progress, or is it a smooth-tongued, subtle, and implacable foe of revealed religion! We admit that there is strife, conflict, and war enough in the world already. It would be criminal, therefore, in any department of life to provoke unnecessary contention. Let us all sincerely covet the blessedness of the peacemakers who shall be called the children of God. If there is any way by which the principles of modernism can be incorporated in the Christian faith without vitiating the faith and without dishonour to Him Who is the Alpha and Omega of that faith, let us by all means find that way. But first, let us be sure of the character of modernism and consider carefully whither it is leading those who accept is philosophy.