Jon Gary Williams
Articles / Resources
0447
F. O. Howell vs C. E. Norman (Methodist)
June 4, 1908
Rehoboth, Tennessee
(By J. H. Murrell)
Bro. F. O. Howell, Wynne, Ark. and C. E. Norman (Meth.) met in debate at Rehoboth, Obion Co. Tenn. May 5-8. Each offered general church propositions. Bro. W. H. Tice moderated for Howell.
Large crowds attended. I have had the pleasure of hearing several debates and can say without hesitation that the best feeling prevailed at this one that I have ever witnessed. If a single one in the audience was angry I did not know it. It helped eliminate religious prejudice.
Mr. Norman, young, and a good speaker, took some peculiar views. "Baptizo the classical meaning is 'immerse,' 'sprinkle,' and 'pour,' but the N. T. word is always 'sprinkle' and 'pour'." He also said, "When a man immerses another, he is violating the law of God." The Meth. Discipline said of a preacher, "If he shall desire it, he shall immerse him in water." Thus, Methodist preachers shall violate "the law of God." He also took the position that the jailer's household was saved on his faith, and that Paul swore the next morning that he had not been out of the jail or house, but he could not give chapter and verse.
Bro. Howell is yet a young man, but is a good speaker and is loyal to the cause of the Master. The brethren were well pleased with his work.
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