USA > Georgia > Bibb County > Macon > Georgia Baptists: historical and biographical > Part 24
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failing fast. About two o'clock in the afternoon he suffered the most excruciating pains. He would entreat us not to keep him, he was anxious to depart, for he felt that he rested upon the " Rock of Ages " and had no cause of fear. From the last mentioned hour until eleven o'clock at night, when he closed his eyes in death, he had scarcely a moment's ease. During these hours of increased and increasing pain we were continu- ally shifting his position, but he found no ease until death came. Precisely at eleven o'clock p. m., 4th of February, 1837, I closed his eyes, and thus closed a scene of suffering and affliction which, thank God, is seldom felt or witnessed. During the above scene I heard him indistinctly articulate, "Acts 7th," had not time then to look for the passage, and in the wretched state of my mind I could not think of any verse in the chapter suited to his case, but it was evidently the fifty-ninth verse, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit."
He was indeed baptized in sufferings, that he might, no doubt, rise to that far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Oh, how sweet must have been his entrance into rest ! How gloriously great his transition from a world of suffering to a heaven of unspeakable bliss !
It is not flattery, nor is it saying too much to state that few, if any, ever made more rapid progress in piety, and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. Neither is it said to his praise, but to the magnifying of that grace which made him what he was. Religion was not with him a mere profession, neither was he governed by mere impulse in the discharge of its duties, but it was fixed in his heart as a living, abiding and sanctifying principle, impressing itself upon his character in every relation of life. In the very beginning of his christian life, he made holiness of heart the chief aim, and the service of God the great business of life ; and to these two objects he de- voted time, talents and property. In the very outset, long be- fore he entered upon the ministry, he gave much of his time to prayer and the study of the scriptures. When business called him away from his study, he carried with him his pocket tes- tament, that he might employ his leisure moments in reading and meditating upon divine truth. He " searched the scriptures
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daily." He was in the habit of rising early in the morning and spending the time before the hour of family worship arrived in devotional exercises. To this may be attributed the fervor and spirituality with which he conducted this delightful exercise. He was ever careful to suffer nothing, aside from the providence of God, to interfere with worship in his family, morning and evening. His domestic altar was held most sacred, and upon it he seemed ever anxious to lay his best sacrifice. In conducting worship in his family, his custom was to accompany the portion of scripture read with some practical remarks, suited to the wants and understandings of his family. He was, indeed, the christian in his house, seeking, by precept and example, to lead his children and servants to Christ. In the church he seemed to have but one end in view-the honor and glory of Christ. To his brethren he was kind, affectionate and faithful, sympa- thizing with them in their afflictions, warning them when care- less, and reproving them when they offended. He regarded it as a high privilege, as well as sacred duty, to aid his pastor in every way he could in advancing the cause of Christ. In his intercourse with men of the world, he never lost sight of his calling as a christian, nor of their condition as sinners against God. Hence, he never lost an opportunity of speaking a word for God. So common was it with him to change conversation from worldly topics to those of a religious nature, that it was often said by his worldly acquaintances, "No matter what you talk about to Mr. Law, he will find something in it upon which to change the conversation to the subject of your soul's salva- tion."
He attained unto great spirituality of mind, and if it be true that "out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh," then was his heart full of the love of Christ, the holiness of God, and the blessings of salvation, for these subjects formed the burden of his conversation. He was a most scrupulous ob- server of the Sabbath; he "remembered the Sabbath day to keep it holy." By Saturday evening sunset, all his worldly business was closed up and laid aside, and he commenced the preparation of his heart and mind for the duties of the ap- proaching Sabbath. So thoroughly was his mind trained to communion with divine things on this holy day that, on one
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occasion, after he entered the ministry, he was threatened with great pecuniary loss, from the failure of a friend for whom he had indorsed, which cost him much trouble and anxiety for weeks before he got through with it; and, though he was har- rassed and worried during the week, yet he told me afterwards that when the Sabbath came his mind was as perfectly calm and free from all disturbances of a worldly nature as it would have been had no difficulties existed. He spoke of it as a man- ifestation of God's goodness to him.
During his christian course, he was called to pass through some dark and severe scenes of affliction. By the bedside of an affectionate wife and five children has he been seen to stand, at different times, in all the calm serenity of submission to the will of God, and placing his hand upon their eyes closing in death, express the resignation of his soul in the solemn words of inspiration, "The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away ; blessed be the name of the Lord." His confidence in God seemed never shaken. The chastisements of his heavenly Father taught him not to love the world, nor the things of the world, and clothed him with humility as with a garment. Such was his resignation under these afflictions that an intimate friend of his-a man of the world-upon one occasion of severe bereave- ment, remarked that his religion had destroyed his natural sen- sibilities. But could that friend have witnessed the deep strug- gle, the bitter conflict between natural affection and the duty of submission to the will of God, he would have been constrained to acknowledge that the affections of the heart had not been impaired, but subdued to the recognition of a higher relation, for a more affectionate husband and father never lived. He was a christian of the kindest and most benevolent feelings. During seasons of severe sickness in Sunbury he was found day and night by the side of the sick and dying, administering to soul and body.
As a christian master, he felt deeply the responsibilities of his station. Frequently, upon visiting his plantation, he would call his servants off from their work and assemble them for re- ligious instruction. He often talked to them privately and per- sonally respecting their soul's salvation. He treated those of his servants who professed religion as fellow-christians. He
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never punished them for misconduct before laying their case before the church, He was an active and liberal supporter of all the benevolent institutions 'of the day. He conscientiously gave according as the Lord had prospered him, and if the loss of a crop rendered stricter economy necessary, he economized in his family, and not in his contributions to the Lord. He lived as one who was not his own, but bought with a price, even with the precious blood of Christ.
As a preacher, it was not to be expected, inasmuch as he never received an education, was altogether unaccustomed to study, and did not enter the ministry until late in life, that he would have become what is usually termed a great preacher; but, under all disadvantages, it may, in strict truth, be said, he did become a good preacher, able to divide the word of truth . aright, and to give each his portion in due season. If to preach the word, be instant in season, out of season, reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long suffering and doctrine, constitute a good minister of Jesus Christ, then was he one.
His sermons were prepared with much care and study, in do- ing which he used no other help than a Bible, with Scott's ref- erences. It was in this way he studied the scriptures almost exclusively, interpreting scripture by scripture. His sermons were sound and practical, generally well arranged, and often exhibiting deep thought and much patient study. Upon the great doctrine of "justification by faith " he dwelt much, and upon this subject he preached with great power. In preaching upon all the fundamental doctrines of the gospel, he was free from all speculation, and from everything like an attempt to be wise above what is written. He was content to give a plain, scriptural view of his subject and enforce the obvious duties it imposed on men. In preaching, he showed great familiarity with the scriptures, quoting freely and accurately from them, and giving chapter and verse from memory. In his delivery he was fluent, rapid and animated, always throwing his whole soul into the application of his discourses. He was much gifted in prayer. In witnessing his pulpit performances, one could not but feel that he was listening to a man who spake as though standing in the presence of the Great Head of the church. He preached the gospel without charge to the churches, but with
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cost to himself; for, though he had a large family to provide for and educate, a small property to do it with, and somewhat in debt, making the most rigid economy necessary in order to get along, yet he paid another to attend to his business, that he might give himself wholly to the work of the ministry. He trusted in the Lord, for in the Lord Jehovah he knew was ever- lasting strength.
AUGUSTUS O. BACON.
Augustus O. Bacon, the son of Thomas and Sarah H. Bacon, and grandson of the late Rev. Dr. Holcombe, was born in Lib- erty county, Ga., on the 17th January, 1816. His parents were .both members of the Baptist church. They studiously and prayerfully endeavored to imbue the mind of their son with the great principles of christianity, and to impress upon his heart and conscience the inestimable value and importance of an early dedication of himself to the service of Christ. Nor did they, while thus training him up for heaven, neglect the discipline and cultivation of his mental faculties. He was sent at an early age to the best school the neighborhood could af- ford, which was at Walthourville. Here he was regularly pre- pared for college. As to his early history, it will be necessary to say but little. From his childhood, his conduct was unex- ceptionable-he was famed for his truth and integrity, and was singled out as a worthy example for those of his own age. He strove to ascertain the path of duty, and when once ascertain- ed, pursued it with undeviating firmness. He was never known to do deliberately what he conscientiously believed to be wrong. Such is the character given him by those who were acquainted with his early days. The seed of divine truth, which was faithfully and prayerfully sown in his heart at an early period, took root, sprung up and brought forth fruit to the honor and glory of God at the age of thirteen. Soon after his conversion, he united, himself to the North Newport Baptist church, and con- tinued up to the time of his leaving to connect himself with college, a consistent and exemplary follower of the Lord Jesus. He entered the Sophomore class, half advanced, of the Uni- versity of Georgia, at Athen's, in January, 1834. While in col-
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lege, his influence was both extensive and salutary. He pos- sessed a sound practical mind, fitted not so much for show as for usefulness, united with great moral worth. By the dignity of his mien, the firmness of his integrity, and the manliness of his piety, he won for himself the esteem of the faculty, and the friendship of the students. His consistency of character and amiable deportment rendered him a favorite in the literary. society in the University and among the citizens of the town, The whole of his influence was exerted in the cause of virtue and religion. And whatever plan was proposed, calculated to elevate the moral character of the college and the students, met with his warm approbation and cordial support. Had he continued his connection with the college, he would have taken. his first degree in August, 1836. But private business, of a pressing nature, called him away a short time previous. In & letter to him, Dr. Church, the president of the institution, re- marks, "We all regretted your leaving before commencement, knowing that, for your scholarship, you would have been enti- tled to one of the first honors, and that the commencement exercises would have been most creditably sustained, so far as you were concerned, had you taken your part in them." Soon after leaving college, he was married to Miss Louisa Jones, of Liberty county, a lady whose excellency of character, and amia- ble disposition, and devoted piety, eminently qualified her to be an help meet for the faithful minister of the Cross. In Octo- ber, 1836, he became a member of the Theological Seminary, in Columbia, South Carolina, with a view of preparing himself for the ministry of reconciliation. Here, as elsewhere, his suavity of manners, his exemplary conduct, and his ardent piety, gained him the love and the christian affection of both his instructors and his brethren. Here, as elsewhere, in all his intercourse with the members of the seminary and with the citizens of Columbia, he was the same high-minded and honor- able man, and the same consistent christian.
A few extracts from letters, written to his friends during his stay in the seminary, will more correctly and faithfully display his religious feelings than any remarks from another pen. In a letter, dated 17th January, 1838, we have the following re- fections, suggested by the return of his birth day: "Twenty-
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two years of my short life have gone, and what account have they borne with them! Alas! it seems like a blank. I cannot see what I have lived for. When the slight efforts to do good are brought into contrast with my slothfulness and unfaithful- nsss, the former dwindle into insignificance. And then, when the sins which have accompanied my best performances are taken into consideration, does it not become me to acknowledge myself guilty ? Where could we sinners hide our heads, if it were not for the atoning Mood of our Saviour ? Here is our only hope; let us cling to this."
In another letter, dated January 21st, 1838, his views respect- ing the sacred ministry and the preparation necessary for the faithful and efficient discharge of its duties are thus set forth :
" I begin to feel that my course of preparation for the minis- try is rapidly drawing to a close. The field is before me, and I am not fit to enter it. You are aware, perhaps, that it is my intention, as far as I can see into the future, to leave the sem- inary and commence preaching in July. This now seems to me to be the path of duty. But, as I have already said, I am not prepared for the work. My knowledge and mental disci- pline are by no means sufficient, and what is more than all, I am very far from having the right spirit for a minister of the gospel. I am too much inclined to lukewarmness and indiffer- ence. My concern for the spiritual welfare of my fellow- creatures, and particularly of my own friends and relatives, has never been what it should have been. Unless this concern is increased, how can I be honored as an instrument of saving souls ?"
After thus having spoken of his unworthiness to assume the ministerial functions, he goes on and beautifully expresses his firm, unwavering confidence in the providence of God :
" On one point I have reason to thank God that my feelings are more in accordance with his word than they have ever been before; and this is, that I do not feel that anxiety in which we are apt to indulge about what is to be my lot in this world and what I shall be called to suffer or perform. It is de- lightful to leave all these things in the hands of our heavenly father. If he has any work for me to do, he will open the door before me and direct me in the path of duty. He knows
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whether poverty and hardship will be most for my good, and amidst all the changes and troubles of this world, he will not disregard those whom he loves. No man's mere external cir- cumstances can make him happy. It is the state of the mind. I find in my own experience that nothing gives so much calm- ness and contentment of mind as to cultivate the habit of trust- ing in God for everything. Duty belongs to us. Let us leave results with God."
Once more we quote from a letter: "I find great difficulty in attending to worldly business on one account. It is so hard to avoid setting our affections on these things. What awful sinners we are! Were it not for the promise that none of Christ's sheep will be lost, then there would indeed be reason for dis- couragement, but here is our hope. He who conducted us thus far has promised never to leave us nor forsake us. Let us live by faith, casting all our care upon Him who is mighty to help."
After remaining here for two full sessions, he applied for å dismission on June 16th, 1838, which was granted by the pro- fessors and couched in the following language : "He has dili- gently attended the prescribed course of study, maintained a consistent christian character, conformed to all the regulations of the institution, and is now dismissed at his own particular request. He carries with him the confidence, the esteem and the sincere affection of each one of us."
In July, 1838, he was licensed to preach the gospel of Christ, and soon after was invited by the North Newport Baptist church and the Sunbury Baptist church to become an associate pastor with the Rev. J. S. Law. The invitation was accepted, and as a preparatory step to his assuming all the duties of the pastoral relation, he was ordained on the 13th of January, 1839.
He labored but a few months here in the active and faithful discharge of his ministerial functions, before he was attacked by the fever. His last sermon to his beloved flock was preached while he was suffering from that disease which in a few days terminated his valuable life. In his last illness he endured much physical pain, but having a conscience void of offence, both toward 'God and toward man, he was not only patient and resigned, but even cheerful. Calm and tranquil, the language
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of his soul seemed to be and doubtless was, "Not my will, but thine, be done, O Lord." To his brothers and sister, who clung around the bedside of their beloved brother, he gave solemn warnings and exhortations upon the important subject of per- sonal religion. Being asked how that, Saviour whom he was recommending to others appeared to himself, he replied, " There is none like him, none like him."
These were his last words in regard to his own personal state, and are amply sufficient to show with what feeling and with what hope he entered upon the untried scenes of eternity. He breathed his last on the 3d of July, 1839, and was buried the next day at Midway burying ground.
Thus died one who had endeared himself in all the relations of life, and is embalmed in the memories of all who knew him. He had but a few months before completed a course of study to prepare himself for the arduous and responsible duties of the pastor and make himself an able and efficient minister of the new covenant. But he was only permitted to look around upon the field of labor allotted him by Divine Providence, to commence his duties, and then to die in the midst of all his hopes and all his plans. How unsearchable are the judgments of God, and his ways past finding out! Hon. A. O. Bacon, Speaker of the House in the Georgia Legislature, is his only living child.
JAMES ARMSTRONG
Was a native of New York, and was born in Hempstead, March 20, 1776, and was educated a Presbyterian. Of that church he was a ruling elder in the city of Savannah. He was also clerk in a large counting-house in that city, in which sit- uation he acquired the reputation of an excellent accountant as well as a man of probity. Being convinced of the error of in- fant sprinkling, he joined the Baptist church in Savannah in 1810. He was licensed and ordained by Fishing Creek church, Wilkes county, about 1814, and was a useful and influential minister for more than twenty years. As a citizen, as well as a minister, he was regarded with respect by all classes, and his advice was sought on all subjects of interest. As a member of the mission board of the Georgia Association, of the Conven-
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tion, and of all the benevolent institutions, he was active and always punctual. He was treasurer of the Convention from 1833 to 1835, the year of his death.
As a preacher he was plain and affectionate. The amiable- ness of his character as a man riveted many an ear which would have been inattentive had there not been about the speaker so much of excellence and sound practical sense. His widow has removed to Alabama, and resides with one of her · sons near Montgomery.
The name of Armstrong is pleasant to many ears in Middle Georgia, where he was extensively known and much beloved. As the pastor of Fishing Creek, Greenwood and Lincolnton churches, he was highly esteemed.
For a more extended notice of this worthy man, see Mercer's " History of the Georgia Association."
WILSON CONNER
Was born in Marlborough district, South Carolina, July 7th, 1768, and at about twenty-one years of age engaged in the min- istry among the Methodists. About 1773, having become dis- satisfied with the doctrine and discipline of that society, he was baptized at Cheraw, South Carolina, by Joshua Lewis, and was ordained as a Baptist minister in Effingham county, Georgia, in 1803, by Revs. Messrs. Peacock, Brewer and Cook. The next year he was excluded from the Great Ogeechee church, and re- mained in a backslidden state for several years. He was for eighteen years Justice of the Inferior Court in Montgomery county. He was likewise a member of the Legislature from the same county. He was at length turned from his backslid- ings, in the exercise of hearty repentance, and was restored to the church and the ministry. In his latter days his ministry was signally blessed. Many souls were added unto the Lord through his instrumentality. He was a warm and successful advocate of the temperance cause and of all similar institutions. He was principally occupied in itinerant service, to which he was much devoted. It may be said in truth that the entire of State was his mission-field. In thirteen years he traveled over thirty-five thousand miles. For a time he acted as domestic
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missionary, under the patronage of the Georgia Baptist Con- vention, and then as an agent of the Board of Trustees of Mercer University.
His person was commanding-frame large, though neither tall nor corpulent, dark complexion, with black eyes, deeply set. His voice was extraordinary, resembling more the rum- bling of distant thunder than anything else. Those who ever heard him never forgot its sound. He appeared to take great pleasure in preaching, and was frequently heard to express the desire " that the last act of his life might be to preach the gos- pel and then be permitted to die in the pulpit." His wish in this respect was singularly fulfilled, for in the summer of 1844, having preached with great liberty and power in Telfair county from the words, "Verily, I say unto you the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God, and they that hear shall live," he sat down and expired instantly, without the least struggle. He was then about seventy-six years old, and had been on the walls of Zion near fifty years. His descendants are quite numerous and very re- spectable.
THOMAS SUMNER WINN,
A son of Deacon Peter Winn, of Liberty county, Georgia, was born July 16th, 1792. His parents had been members of the Presbyterian church at Medway, but in seeking for the proofs of infant sprinkling, they were unable to find them in the Bible. Thomas was usher to Dr. McWhir in Sunbury Academy, in his seventeenth year. A letter addressed to him by his mother, and left on his table, was the means of his awakening. In 1813, he entered Hampden Sydney College, Virginia, but did not continue long in that institution. While attending an academy in Warren county, North Carolina, he was baptized and soon returned home, was ordained pastor of North Newport church, Liberty county, and preached with great acceptance throughout all the low country. He seemed to be conscious that his race would be short, for all his powers were devoted to the great work with untiring energy and flaming zeal. Perhaps few men have done so much good in so little time ; and few, very vew, have been so ripe for heaven at
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