In November 1894, D. L. Moody founded what was known as “The Bible Institute Colportage Association.” The purpose of the association was as follows, and I quote:
To produce good literature at a price within the reach of all.
To carry the Gospel by means of the printed page, where church privileges are wanting or not embraced.
To supply suitable religious reading for distribution among all classes, young and old.
To provide a profitable means of employment. Liberal terms are made to colporters and canvassers. Previous experience not essential. Full printed instructions and suggestions provided. All of one’s time need not be given, but the more the better.
Ten Reasons for Engaging in the Colportage Work It is God’s work, pre-eminently so, in its aim, method and blessing attendant. It is a definite form of Christian work, not merely book-selling.
It carries the Gospel into thousands of homes where pastors or other Christian workers do not usually, or cannot go.
By it the greatest amount of good, through direct contact, can be done to the largest number.
It presents countless opportunities for doing personal work and for enlisting men’s lives and sympathies in the cause of Christ.
It supplements all other evangelical agencies for the promotion of the kingdom of God among men. There need be no fear of rivalry or competition; Christian colporters are wanted everywhere.
It may be undertaken in so great variety of ways—home to home, churches, societies, conventions, mail, lectures and so forth.
The plan of Colportage visiting or “book missionary” work is applicable anywhere, city, town and country.
The work is not an experiment, but an established and thoroughly tried method of reaching the people, especially those who do not go to church nor care for religious things.
The opportunity offered to travel, see the country and meet people of all classes.
It provides paying employment at the smallest outlay of money, and the least possible risk of failure or loss. The remuneration offered is liberal and in proportion to the amount of time and energy expended. Diligent and consecrated men and women make all expenses and enough more to provide a reserve fund. End of quote.