Debate Between Obadiah Jennings and Alexander Campbell

ABSTRACT

This blog pertains to a debate held between Obadiah Jennings a Presbyterian Minister, and Alexander Campbell who at one time was a Presbyterian Minister as well. The debate was actually initiated on December 11, 1832, eleven months before the death of Mr. Jennings on January 12, 1832. The debate was centered upon “Campbellism” and Alexander Campbell’s principles; including his conduct, his teachings, and related theological beliefs.

Mr. Alexander Campbell a former Presbyterian clergyman was born in the year 1788. Having renounced the Presbyterian faith he was often challenged regarding many of his theological views concerning salvation by his contemporaries. For example, according to Jeter (1854) “The theory of conversion advocated by Mr. Campbell is inconsistent with the plainly revealed and fairly conceded influence of the Holy Spirit in believers after baptism.”

Mr. Obadiah Jennings was born in the year 1778. He was a lawyer who was converted to the Presbyterian faith in 1809 and subsequently became a Presbyterian clergyman. Mr. Jennings was widely respected for his sincerity, humility and benevolence. He prioritized preaching, church leadership, and promoting Christian morals. His integrity and decision making earned universal confidence among all who knew him.

Unlike Alexander Campbell, Jennings emphasized that true faith involves the heart, not mere historical belief; because historical belief alone lacks the spiritual qualities and divine influence necessary for salvation. Jennings engaged in discussions defending biblical doctrines against Campbellism. He argued that faith is more than mental assent and produces lasting change. He believed justification depends on faith in Christ, not external acts like immersion.

Mr. Jennings maintained that Mr. Campbell misapplied key biblical passages, especially regarding faith and sects. As a result, Campbell’s interpretation of scriptures alters meanings, which promotes false doctrines.

Mr. Jennings said Mr. Campbell asserts to restore primitive Christianity, but he rejects core gospel doctrines. Mr. Campbell advocates uniting all groups under water immersion, disregarding doctrinal differences. Mr. Campbell has caused much division among Baptist churches through his writings and speeches. His actions are seen as creating a sect, called Campbellites and promoting schisms. His motives are suspected to be self-interest and financial gain, not religious improvement.

One of the elements in the debate between Mr. Jennings and Mr. Campbell focused on whether ordination and ordinances like baptism require apostolic authority. Mr. Jennings affirms that evidence from the Scripture suggests these practices are of divine origin and perpetual in the church. Mr. Jennings says Mr. Campbell favors translating the term “ekklesia” as “congregation” to support his party views. He alters words like “Godhead” and “Spirit” to diminish traditional doctrines like the Trinity.

Another element in this debate is centered upon regeneration and whether water baptism is essential for salvation and regeneration. Mr. Campbell contends that water symbolizes the Holy Spirit, not literal immersion. Mr. Campbell argues that spiritual rebirth is an inward change, not an outward physical act, as it is portrayed in biblical illustrations. In addition, Mr. Campbell equates being born of water with the act of immersion, ignoring the necessity of being born of the Spirit.

Mr. Campbell asserts that baptism is the sole means of being born of God, which Mr. Jennings refutes as inconsistent with Scripture. Mr. Jennings on the other hand argues that salvation depends on the mercy of God through Jesus Christ and not water baptism alone.

In closing, Mr. Jennings affirms that Mr. Campbell and Campbellism relies too heavily on human reasoning and a rational interpretation of Scripture, rather than spiritual guidance spiritual guidance and traditional exegesis.

References

Jennings, O. (1832). Debate on Campbellism held at Nashville, Tennessee, in 1832 between Obadiah Jennings and Alexander Campbell wherein the principles of Alexander Campbell are confuted and his conduct examined. Pittsburg, PA: D. and M. Maclean

Jeter, J. B. (1854). Campbellism examined. Sheldon, Lamport, & Blakeman. New York, NY; Boston, MA: Gould & Lincoln.

McAlister L. G., & Tucker, W. E. (1975). Journey in faith: A history of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). St. Louis, MO: Chalice Press, 1975.

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