The Integration of Spirituality and Evangelism in the Ministry of Reuben Archer Torrey

Abstract

Reuben A. Torrey (1856–1928) was a missions-minded pastor and evangelist whose legacy includes a robust spirituality coupled with the practice of evangelism. In this research, I address the integration of spirituality and evangelism in Torrey’s ministry. I demonstrate that the vibrancy of Torrey’s life in Christ was the wellspring of his evangelistic faithfulness. Other dissertations have examined Torrey’s thought through the lens of apologetics or crusade evangelism. I look at his life through the lens of his spirituality and practice of personal evangelism. Chapter 1 outlines the thesis and methodology, summarizes previous research, and reframes Torrey in light of his abiding in Christ. I also detail my interest in the man, state the limitations inherent in the research, and offer a few comments related to the significance of Torrey for the contemporary generation.

Chapter 2 provides a biographical sketch of Torrey, concentrating on his conversion and call to ministry. I outline elements of Torrey’s spiritual formation that shaped him into a man in Christ and a fisher of men. Chapter 3 focuses on the practices of prayer and Bible intake as illustrated in Torrey’s life. I demonstrate how the habits of prayer and scriptural meditation related to his lifestyle of evangelism. Chapter 4 analyzes Torrey’s pneumatology. Special emphasis is given to Torrey’s views on the personality of, deity of, baptism in, and filling with the Holy Spirit. Chapter 5 explores the gospel Torrey proclaimed in select sermons and in his evangelistic practice. I illustrate the prominence personal soul-winning played in his life and the emphasis he placed on training Christians for the work of personal evangelism. Chapter 6 summarizes the study and suggests practical applications for the practice of missions in light of Torrey’s life, practice, and thought.