Jon Gary Williams
Articles / Resources
0479
J. S. Jones vs J. N. Hooker (Baptist)
January 7, 1926
Pryorsburg, Kentucky
(By W. A. Record)
Debated at Pryorsburg, Ky. Dec. 15-18, 1925.
Hooker affirmed: Baptist positions on baptism and apostasy on 1st and 3rd days. Jones affirmed: Bible position on these same subjects 2nd and 4th days.
Hooker is considered their best debater in these parts and has much experience. This was bro. Jones first debate, but he was equal to the occasion. Deliberate and careful in the beginning, he soon became master of the situation and grew stronger all the time. Hooker seemed to weaken after first half day. When hard pressed, Hooker would say: "People are saved by the obedience of Christ, and not by their own obedience." When he was shown that Christ died for all ( Heb. 2:9), he said: "God purposed in the halls of eternity to save all Adam's race, and would do what he purposed to do, hence, accept the universal plan." "Campbellite"seemed to be a by-word with him.
Hooker used a chart on which he had grouped together Simon, Paul, Peter, David and Moses as Christians, saying that they committed every sin in the whole catalog, but went to heaven. Jones contrasted Gal. 5:19-21 with Baptist doctrine, but Hooker objected by saying that the scriptures referred to the unconverted. Jones reminded Hooker that if he were correct, the unconverted would be compelled to live a perfect life before conversion, but after conversion they could sin to the limit and be saved.
No doubt much good will result from the debate. Much interest had been created and attendance good. Brethren present: I. A. Douthitt, B. L. Douthitt, Charley Taylor, L. E. Jones, Alonzo Williams, E. L. Whitaker and T. W. Phillips, Jr.
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