p. 272 | The Succession by Editor

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Apr 23, 1885

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 11, No. 17.

The Succession.

By Editor

IT is almost amusing to notice the great ado which is made by some classes of Baptists over the subject of "Baptist succession." Over this the controversy seems both continual and endless. Cui bono? Can a more unprofitable question be mooted than this? We believe that there have always been genuine witnesses for the truth; that God has always had in reserve unto himself those who would not bow the knee to Baal; but by what particular name they were designated at all times is a matter of very small concern to us. We care more to hold the apostolical faith than to trace the apostolical succession; and we hope to be found a son and heir of Abraham, even though we cannot trace our genealogy by an unbroken chain! Our Abrahamic family record is exceedingly brief. "If ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise." Gal. 3:29. If anybody should prove that our great grandfather was not in this line, it does not invalidate our succession. Brethren, drop your contention, and give all diligence to make your calling and election sure, and this will be your best proof that you are of the royal line.