The Personal Touch (ePub)

J. Wilbur Chapman (1859-1918) was a prominent Presbyterian evangelist and author in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, renowned for his compelling preaching and his commitment to the spread of the Christian gospel. Born John Wilbur Chapman in Richmond, Indiana, he pursued a theological education at Lane Theological Seminary, graduating in 1879. Chapman served as a pastor in various locations, and his evangelistic fervor eventually led him to focus on evangelism full-time. He became an associate of famed evangelist Dwight L. Moody and was deeply influenced by him. Chapman was also a key figure in the early years of the interdenominational Christian Endeavor movement and held the position of moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the USA. Chapman's literary contributions were numerous, with his book 'The Personal Touch' (1912) being especially notable. In this work, he emphasizes the importance of personal relationships and individual care in the ministry, a recurring theme in his pastoral teachings. His writing style is characterized by its clarity, directness, and a palpable devotion to Christian service. Chapman's writings, while rooted in the context of his own time, reflect timeless principles of leadership, spirituality, and pastoral care, endearing him to a wide audience in his lifetime and beyond. His legacy endures through his written works, and his impact on church growth and evangelistic methodology remains a subject of study.