Senath, Missouri

[Page 14]

     The editor spoke to a goodly number at Senath, Missouri, September 4. The congregation there invited the local ministers of the Methodist, Baptist, Pentecostal and Assembly of God churches to present their viewpoints one night each, with the understanding that the entire community would be invited to listen and to weigh what was said, no one being obligated to accept any idea advanced. It was my privilege to close the series, which was conducted in good order. It is a good sign when brethren are fearless enough to invite any responsible person to set forth his views and demonstrate a willingness to listen. The little group at Senath have demonstrated a spiritual stature that was characteristic of the beginning of the Restoration movement, but which has been sadly lacking in the past several years.

     Daniel Sommer wrote thus in 1887: "There are those of us who so abhor sectarians that they will not attend their meetings nor speak in their pulpits. Did such ever read of Brother Campbell's proposition to a Presbyterian preacher?"

     "Doctor," said he, "I understand you are going to preach to your people on Infant Baptism."

     "Yes," answered the Doctor.

     "Why--don't they believe in it?" inquired Brother Campbell.

     "O, yes."

     "Well," answered the man who never feared the face of clay, "I propose you and I exchange. My people don't believe that doctrine, and you might do much good by discoursing to them thereon; while I might do much good by talking to your people about baptism of believers.

     "Ah, Mr. Campbell, I think that wouldn't do very well," was the Doctor's response.