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Editor’s Note: Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892) was a famous denominational preacher. Spurgeon collected a great following during his day, and his influence is still felt among the denominations today. The following comments regarding Spurgeon’s work and influence are from James A. Butler, a member of the Lord’s church, and were printed in the Gospel Advocate in 1860.
I wish that one Trans-Atlantic orator would present the Law of Remission as found in the New Testament, to his people for three consecutive Lord’s days; and this would test the fact to whether those boasted-of multitudes assemble to hear Spurgeon or the Apostles—to hear Spurgeon’s anecdotes, or the gospel of the crucified One. Will he tell the convicted “slave-dealer” to “arise and be baptized and wash away thy sins?” Will he tell the priest-ridden, and kingly cursed thousands who crowd around him, when goaded in their hearts, “Repent and be immersed, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins?” Will he enunciate to the benighted of London, “He that believes and is immersed shall be saved.” And, that, “if apostles or angels preach any other gospel than that preached by the apostles, let them be accursed.” He says “that he is brave.” Take the banter. No, Mr. Spurgeon has already announced most solemnly, “that his identity is with Calvin and St. Augustine, and with them, he will live, and with them he will die.” Which is but little less than an open declaration of war upon the dominions of the cross. I am told that no man could have achieved so much, if not aided by a supernatural power, as this young Cicero. You had as well tell me that that beautiful, fascinating actress could not have achieved such laurels, as a crowded theatre, and a thousand groans, and wet eyes, unless the Lord had stood by her! But, thank God, the lamp is lighted. Day has dawned. The bugle-notes of war are sounding. The day of battle has come. To arms! To arms! The chieftains cry. And shall we not heed?
James A. Butler
Gospel Advocate, 1860