Jon Gary Williams
Articles / Resources
0001
James A. Allen vs Dr. Cyril Wyche (Unitarian)
March 6, 1924
Lindsley Avenue Church of Christ
(By F. B. Srygley)
Allen affirmed for two nights: "Jesus Christ is the divine Son of God."
Wyche affirmed for two nights: "Liberal religion which denies the virgin
birth of Christ, his divinity, his resurrection from the dead, and the
divine inspiration of the Bible, is the true religion."
The debate was
held February 26, 1929 in Lindsley Avenue Church of Christ. F. B.
Srigley moderated for Allen; Howard Andrews moderated for Wyche. About
1200 attended each session. The speakers were kind to each other and
considerate of the audience. The crowd sided with Bro. Allen which gave
him an advantage; but Wyche had very little to lose.
The two men were
different in appearance. Dr. Wyche is a brave-looking man who appears
doubtful of his ground and disposed to apologize for his positions;
while Allen appears meek and timid, anxious to learn, but willing to die
for what he believes to be right. Wyche said he believed the Bible and
frequently referred to it as the "grand old book." Yet he tried to point
out mistakes in it. He cut himself off from an infallible guide.
Bro.
Allen was as bold as a lion when he defended its sacred truths. He
believes the Bible and makes no apology for it. It is his perfect guide
and he stands upon this sure foundation in all his arguments. He took
but few positions; these were well chosen and gave him confidence. None
of his arguments were overthrown. Only good can come from a discussion
of this type.
Bro. Allen was reared in this city and has many friends back of him. He
defended the truth humbly but with force. He knows he has an infallible
guide - the Bible. "The opposition to all religious controversy under
the guise of extreme goodness and great piety will do more to foster and
keep alive error on religious subjects than any other one thing which
the wicked one could suggest." "Truth can stand the light of
investigation"
Note: During the debate the G.A. office looked like a Preacher's Convention.
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