Jon Gary Williams
Articles / Resources
0624
M. H. Northcross vs R. H. Speelman (Missionary Baptist)
October 28, 1915
Fountain Run, Kentucky
(By T. Q. Martin)
Fountain Run, Ky. Sept. 27 for 6 days.
Mr. Speelman read from his scrapbook the same stock-in-trade arguments made by his brethren. He clung as tenaciously to his scrapbook; and when matters had to be handled which had not been arranged in said scrapbook, he was as utterly helpless as any man whom I have ever heard in public discussion.
His definition of faith surrendered his faith alone theory. He defined faith as belief combined with an element of trust. Bro. Northcross showed that one can intellectually trust Jesus Christ for the actual bestowment of remission of sins only when one comes to the place, or complies with the conditions upon which, the Savior has promised forgiveness. Mr. Speelman conceded that there is a belief which comes before repentance, but it is intellectual belief.
Bro. Northcross tried to get Speelman to say if he believed Mk.16:16 is inspired. Speelman positively refused to answer.
Mr. Speelman acted ugly a number of times. He was positively insulting to his opponent's moderator and insulted all members of the church of Christ who attended. His sympathizers applauded when he announced from the rostrum that he had never been defeated in debate; but it reminded me of the last kick of a dying mule.
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