1861 SLAVERY & ABOLITIONISM. Rare Theological Defense of Political Action for the Abolition of Slavery.

A very scarce early theological defense not just against the practice of slavery, but of the active engagement of professing Christians in the task of abolition.  On Sabbath, December 9th, 1860, New York Presbyterian and noted anti-abolitionist Rev. Henry J. Van Dyke [1822-1891] preached, and subsequently published, one of the most widely distributed anti-abolitionist discourses in the north. In the treatise, Van Dyke argues that “abolitionism is the chief cause of the strife that agitates and the danger that threatens our country," and is therefore sub-Christian. He further argues that abolitionism itself, even it does not cause division, has no foundation in Scripture and “. . . that the gospel does not forbid slavery . . ." and presciently warns that agitation over slavery will lead to the dissolution of the Union and the danger of war: “If we were sure of a peaceful solution, at whatever pecuniary or social sacrifice, we would not feel so deeply nor speak earnestly. But who knows t