THE DISCUSSION AT KNOXVILLE.
By B. F. Snook
HAVING been repeatedly spoken to, to give a report of the Knoxville discussion, I have concluded to make the following statements for the satisfaction of the readers of the Review. The discussion began Apr. 24. The proposition, "Has man an immortal soul?" was affirmed by Mr. Pressly. There appeared to be great interest in behalf of the affirmant manifested by those of like faith. They looked to him as their chief support in a time to them of great trouble. The proposition was discussed six days, and in all this time Mr. Pressly could not and did not show one text to prove that man has an immortal soul. This failure resulted in the general dissatisfaction of many who favored Mr. P.'s proposition. The Sabbath was next considered. Bro. Hull affirmed and proved, despite his opponents, that the seventh day is the proper Sabbath, or Lord's day. Mr. P. had the aid of nearly twenty preachers all the time, Methodists, Presbyterians, Congregationalists, Campbeltites, Baptists, &c. Bro. Hull had the aid of two "boy-preachers." The disinterested and unprejudiced were satisfied that Mr. P. met none of Bro. H.'s arguments with any success. During the discussion, and after, the brethren received eighteen members into their fellowship. They all rejoice and feel much built up, and praise the Lord for his having given them such a glorious triumph over those who have been doing their best to tear them down. We have truths that the world cannot meet with any success. The strongest try; they use all their powers; but alas for them! their efforts are all in vain. This debate has resulted in good. Many were brought out to hear there that would not listen prior to that time. But we should be careful and not be animated with the spirit of debate. Neither should we enter into debate in any other than the most prayerful manner. May the Lord help us to confound our adversaries at all times, and bring them into the truth.