Jon Gary Williams
Articles / Resources
0151
A. O. Calley vs J. E. Skinner (Missionary Baptist)
March 26, 1903
Hazel, Kentucky
(By W. B. Boaz)
At Hazel, Kentucky, January 27-30.
Large Crowds. Unusual interest. The people come with smiles on their faces, which they retained as they returned to their homes. The speakers treated each other kindly; they commenced the debate in a good humor and remained so till the end of the debate. The moderators had nothing to do but keep time. The debaters acted as men should act when they are discussing vital questions - questions that have to do with the souls of men.
This was Bro. Calley's first debate; but I predict that it will not be his last, as he manifested such wonderful power in the handling of the questions discussed. He is not easily confused; and he states his points clearly, sustains them well by scriptural proofs, and ably defends them throughout. He is a young man, being only 28 years old; but he knows the truth and handles it well. He believes in the God of the Bible, and in religion he accepts nothing but "what is written." He will make a strong debater if he applies himself.
Elder Skinner, 39 years old, is a good thinker and speaker, and appears to be honest, clever, and good-hearted. I consider him one of the fairest men, if not the fairest man, I have heard among the denominations. If he held the truth and offered to defend it, he would find but few men that could handle him in debate before a large audience. His only weakness is his position.
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