As I begin to delve into the political and social history of Spain in order to understand its people in a greater way, many factors begin to appear as to why the present situation of the country remains as it is. The humanism and agnosticism that permeates much of the country may be traced to a period of fifteen years that, according to the research of Dale G. Vought, moved Spain from the most religious country in Europe to the least religious. He comments further on the situation in Spain during the years 1975-1990:

"For those unaware of what was happening this statement might seem extreme but, for those living the day-to-day changes, it confirmed what was all too evident. With an absolute majority in the House and Senate, the Socialists could make laws at will. There were changes in the penal system that flooded the streets with delinquents. Divorce and abortions became legal and a breakdown of family values, which had been an important part of Spanish culture, became noticeable. Unemployment reached alarming proportions and corruption increased. Spain was not the great spiritual giant of Europe that it had claimed to be, but rather a nation caught in great spiritual turmoil. The [Catholic] church was losing the youth and working class who become more preoccupied with living this life than worrying about the next. Only 40% of them believed in Hell while 48% doubted its existence or denied it completely. There was no "sin" anymore, only a few "faults." The people lost lost their fear of eternal punishment and the Church lost their allegiance." (p. 264 Like A Flickering Flame)

In talking with people about present Spain, I often come across an attitude that is either explicitly or implicitly expressed, that is, is Spain worth evangelizing? The power of the gospel remains "of God" (Romans 1:16) and Spain constitutes a land that, though culturally deficient of most Christian forms and truly biblical principles, is ripe for the grace of God to be poured out on many lives. My mind imagines of Spanish industry workers, small business owners, college professors, fishermen, and school-aged children who cannot be denied the amazing message of the gospel. Does their depravity as a nation repel us to pursue other shores evangelistically or does it motivate us to give them the light of Christ?