Open Air Campaigners
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OACI Update 1998

In Whitefields' footsteps at Harvard university

George Whitefield in one of his many trips to New England commented in his journal on September 24th, 1740 about preaching at Harvard University. He was surprised by the lack of discipline and the bad books for a school that was supposed to train "the sons of the prophets in New England". His text was "We are not as many, who corrupt the Word of God" 2 Cor 2:17. In 1740 Harvard had 4 tutors and about 100 students.

Today, as of September 1998, Harvard has approximately 4,200 students in their undergraduate program & eleven graduate schools. Open Air Campaigners is carrying on the tradition of George Whitefield by preaching in Harvard Square directly across from Harvard University. Over 500 open-air messages have been preached here since 1986. At different times, people have shed tears over sin and smashed the PA system at this location.

Must recently, during a meeting on July 8th, 1998, a gentleman approached me and said his sins are forgiven and everyone's sins are forgiven except those who blaspheme the Holy Spirit. As we began to focus on the justice of God I went into detail regarding God's punishment of sin. We discussed at great length that forgiveness cannot be granted unless the penalty for sin is paid for first. As the confidence in his own salvation dwindled he said he had to leave but told me that I had surely ruined his day.

We do thank God for the great privilege of presenting the same truths of the gospel to Harvard students, that Whitefield preached there over 250 years ago. God is still at work and is honoring His word. Some are finding forgiveness and a new life in Christ through repentance and faith, for which we give Him praise.