Disciple Preaching in the First Generation: An Ecological Study

Based on the Reed lectures from 1969, Stevenson examines the Old-World origins and the impact of the early American frontier on early Disciples preaching up to the time of the Civil War. He notes the preaching forms that early leaders rejected—mere flowery or rhetorical messages and harangues against established Protestant sects—and what was accepted in its place. Stevenson's essays draw into sharp relief the difference between debate and preaching, a line that has often been blurred within the Stone-Campbell tradition.

With generous support from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, and as part of the National Endowment of the Humanities Open Book program, the Abilene Christian University's ACU Press and Brown Library partnered with the Disciples of Christ Historical Society (DCHS) to digitize 25 important backlist titles relevant to Stone-Campbell tradition, theology, and church history. This open access version is hosted by Atla Open Press in furtherance of the purposes of the grant.