Some of these reports coming to the ears of Mr. Campbell, he began to fear that Mr. Scott's precipitancy had betrayed him into indiscretions which might be prejudicial to the cause; and upon counseling with his father, it was concluded that the latter should visit the [218] Western Reserve and examine for himself the progress of affairs. Upon arriving early in the spring, he heard Mr. Scott's presentations of the gospel and witnessed his direct method of procedure in the reception of converts with surprise and pleasure. He saw at once that what he and his son Alexander had plainly taught was now reduced to practice; that the simple primitive method of administering the gospel was really restored, and that the rumors which had reached Bethany were untrue. He therefore concluded to remain for some time in this inviting field, and by his earnest and efficient labors gave additional impetus to the work. From New Lisbon he wrote to his son Alexander on April 9th, giving his impressions as follows:

      "I perceive that theory and practice in religion, as well as in other things, are matters of distinct consideration.  . . We have spoken and published many things correctly concerning the ancient gospel, its simplicity and perfect adaptation to the present state of mankind, for the benign and gracious purposes of its immediate relief and complete salvation; but I must confess that, in respect of the direct exhibition and application of it for that blessed purpose, I am at present, for the first time, upon the ground where the thing has appeared to be practically exhibited to the proper purpose. 'Compel them to come in,' saith the Lord, 'that my house may he filled.'

      "Mr. Scott has made a bold push to accomplish this object, by simply and boldly stating the ancient gospel and insisting upon it; and then by putting the question generally and particularly to males and females, old and young--Will you come to Christ and be baptized for the remission of your sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit? Don't you believe this blessed gospel? Then come away, etc., etc. This elicits a personal conversation; some confess faith in the testimony--beg time to think; others consent--give their hands to be [219] baptized as soon as convenient; others debate the matter friendly; some go straight to the water, be it day or night; and, upon the whole, none appear offended."

[Memoirs of Alexander Campbell, Vol. II, pp. 219-220.]

      The extract of Thomas Campbell's letters to his son (April 9, 1828) was first published in Robert Richardson's Memoirs of Alexander Campbell, Vol. 2 (Philadelphia, PA: J. B. Lippincott, 1871), pp. 219-220. This extract was reprinted in A. S. Hayden's Early History of the Disciples in the Western Reserve, Ohio (Cincinnati, OH: Chase & Hall, 1875), pp. 148-149.

      Pagination in the electronic version has been represented by placing the page number in brackets following the last complete word on the printed page. The extract of Thomas Campbell's letter has been set off as a block quotation. Robert Richardson's narrative has been included to provide historical context and continuity. I have let stand variations and inconsistencies in the author's use of italics, capitalization, punctuation, and spelling in the letter.

      Addenda and corrigenda are earnestly solicited.

Ernie Stefanik
Derry, PA

Created 4 May 2000.
Updated 8 July 2003.