The life of the rev. Joseph Parker (Volume 4) - Softcover

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated.1902 Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XXVI 1901-1902 Chairman of the Union--His Address--The United Congregational Church--His Aims, Doubts, and Fears--Manchester Address-Elected President of the Free Church Council--Conclusion With the new century came new ideas into the minds of men. They were awakened as from a sleep, and realised in a measure what had been done in the nineteenth century, and that, 'being heirs of all the ages,' they required to carry forward the good work begun. The impetus to a forward movement was felt in all departments of thought and action, and in none more so than the religious sphere. Churches were aroused, ministers and members said with one accord, 'We must not let the opportunities presented of doing Christ's work pass without improving them.' Activity prevailed everywhere, and a general determination was formed to act in harmony with the new times, and in a better and brighter spirit. Probably in this frame of mind Dr. Parker entered on the duties of the chairmanship of the Congregational Union of England and Wales on the first day of January, i90i. There were two dominating, and what may appear paradoxical, ideas which had ruled much of his life. To these he was determined to give prominence, and get them, if possible, practically acknowledged. First he was an Independent, loving his position and believing in it as being in harmony with the teaching of the Scriptures and Christianity. Secondly, he had firm faith in the brotherhood of all Christians, no matter by what name they were called, and this he believed should be recognised as widely as possible. His desire was that Christ's prayer should be answered, 'That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sen...