Jon Gary Williams
Articles / Resources
0383
N. B. Hardeman vs J. E. Skinner (Baptist)
March 14, 1918
Bible Union Meeting House near Latham, Tennessee
(By T. B. Thompson)
N. B. Hardeman, Henderson, Tenn, stood in the defense "of those things which are most surely believed among us." Mr. J. E. Skinner, Baptist fro Jackson, Tenn labored faithfully in behalf of the Baptist religion. They debated usual points: estab. of church, Baptism, Holy Spirit, apostasy -- engaged the attention of the disputants and their splend audiences for 4 days (Feb. 19-22). Bro. W. E. Morgan of Cottage Grove, Tenn moderated for N. B. H.; judge Mayhu, Dresden, Tenn moderated for Mr. Skinner.
The conduct of the speakers and moderators was such as to prohibit any outbreak upon the part of the audiences at any time; hence a discussion that compelled the admiration and commendation of thinking, refined people. No discussion arose among the listeners either during sessions or intermissions, and a casual observer could not distinguish between Baptists and Christians. I feel sure the community feels that it has been honored by the opportunity to entertain such a high-toned exchange of religious ideas. Neither the speakers nor the audiences were objects of special reproof at any time. Good effects must follow in any community. The people are demanding a higher type of debates than they, in many instances, have had heretofore; and they have only to select the proper men to insure a high type of discussion.
The cause of truth could not have been more ably presented than by bro. Hardeman. He refuses to have anything to do with a low order of disputation, and refuses to meet the demagogues often endorsed by the denominations. While holding the debate on a high plane, he goes after his opponent with a precision and directness that is telling in its effect and savors of no hint of compromise, He not only exposes the fallacies and assumptions of his opponents arguments, but, in addition thereto, teaches the truth upon them. Hardeman couples oratory and logic as few men can. He compels the attention, admiration and esteem even of those who radically differ from him. An attempt of an opponent to drag the discussion down to a low plane is met with such a rebuke that a second attempt if severely forbidden. Bro. H. leaves no regret or disappointments of those who love the truth and make the best of friends among his religious enemies.
Many expressions were forthcoming from visitors respecting the excellent entertainment shown by Christian homes of the community. About 15 preachers of the gospel were in attendance, and most of these were young men - students at Henderson, Tenn or Wingo, Ky. They presented a splendid prophecy as to the future of the work of the gospel. Five Baptist preachers came.
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