Publisher's Synopsis
Excerpt from A Reply to the Rev. Isaac Nelson, of Belfast, and Rev. William Dobbin, of Anaghlone; Or, Revivalism, Assurance, the Witness of the Spirit Defended: In Speeches Delivered at the General Assembly, June 12, 1866
Dr. Murphy who, I believe, had not then read these pamphlets, attempted to effect a pacific settlement. I need not say here that Dr. Murphy is one of our most peace-loving ministers - an Israelite indeed in whom is no guile and I have often said to my friends that, were I ever to quarrel with Dr. Murphy, I gave them notice that I would myself be in the wrong - for Dr. Murphy would willingly offend no one. But when my friend, at the Synod, interfered to promote peace, and in the spirit of conciliation described Mr. Dobbin as an intensely orthodox minister, -you all know how this gentle man immediately ?ared out in the newspapers in an epistle which was only discreditable to himself and ever since he has been pursuing the same course. Instead of exhibiting the spirit of Him who did not strive, nor cry, neither did any man hear his voice in the streets, Mr. Dobbin has manifested a wonderful itch for notoriety. Every now and then he has been popping outhis head in the newspapers - in some little Spit-fire epistle. Moderator, I do not think that the newspapers are a proper medium for the discussion of a question such as this. The doctrine of the assurance of grace and salvation should be examined with the utmost seriousness - it pertains specially to the chil dren of God - and in its investigation the world lying in wickedness can be expected to take no interest whatever. I hold, then, that the man who insists on introducing the question into common newspapers displays very little good sense, very little taste, very little consideration.
This Commission, Moderator, was appointed to examine documents and to report to the Assembly. My impression was that we were bound to examine documents on both sides; and, if necessary, to report, as well in regard to Mr. Dobbin, asin regard to Mr. Crawford. On looking into these pamphlets I found that Mr. Dobbin had deviated from the Confession of Faith; and though he has stated to you this morning that no Irishman took any im portant part in the proceedings of the Commission, he must remember that I made a rather remarkable motion. I moved that he should be reported to the Assembly as an errorist and I believe I am an Irishman. My motion was not adopted, as it was argued that Mr. Dobbin was not before us. I then thought, and still think, otherwise. I deem it right to mention what occurred; for though I eventually acquiesced in the finding of the Commission, I did not altogether approve of it - as I believed we should have gone farther.
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