Review of John A. Broadus and Slavery

The next essay in our latest book - God's Glory in Baptist History: A Memorial Volume for Terry Wolever, edited by Michael A. G. Haykin - is "John A. Broadus (1827-1895) and Slavery," by Roger D. Duke.

Duke writes, "Scripture is rife with persons who were sinners; but God also used them in the unfolding drama of redemption. Here are selected Biblical examples. First there was 'Father Abraham.' He believed God and it was counted to him for righteousness . . . Is it not most interesting that Abraham lied about his wife Sarai to the Pharoah of Egypt (see Genesis 12:10 ff)? . . . Second, consider Moses. He was known as the Great Israelite Deliverer. He got them out of Egypt but was unable, because of sin, to get them into the Promised Land . . . . Third, look at King David—the sweet Psalmist of Israel. He was known as a 'man after God’s heart' (I Samuel 13:14). Yet, he fell into great sin when he lusted after Bathsheba, committed adultery with her, and had her husband murdered (II Samuel 11). But [they] repented . . . And God did not cast [them] off utterly because of [their] sinfulness. . . . This too applies to the life of John Albert Broadus." 

Duke takes us through Broadus' life and his thoughts on slaveholding in the historical context of the civil war era . Although he was personally a slaveholder, "nonetheless, he possessed a most tender heart for those under the tyranny of slavery." 

This is an interesting read in light of our current cultural movement to re-write history. Visit our website PBPress.org to get your copy today! 300 pages, hardbound, indexed and illustrated. $26.