A Piety Above the Common Standard

by Dr Anthony L Chute

Jesse Mercer (1769-1841) was a Baptist pastor, editor, and denominational statesman who figured prominently in the debates over Calvinism among Southern clergymen. Most studies of Calvinism in America have focused on Jonathan Edwards, the New Divinity Movement, and the Princeton theologians. Calvinism, however, played a key role in shaping the religious mind of the South, particularly among Baptists who debated the relationship between divine sovereignty and human responsibility as it related to missions, education, and social reform. These debates led to the formation of two Baptist groups, Primitive and Missionary, the latter of which ultimately became Southern Baptists. This book explores the role of Jesse Mercer within these debates as he promoted the first form of the Georgia Baptist Convention. His Calvinistic theology governed his actions and life. He emphasized missions, theological training for pastors, and cooperation between churches in fulfilling the Great Commission. Calvinism is as important a topic today in the study of religion as it ever has been. This book gives perspective and history to current trends and understandings.

256 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2004

Reviews

[Emmanuel Boston · Rating 4 out of 5]

Be aware: this began as a dissertation for a Ph.D. program. It has been tweaked since that time, but is very academic by nature.

However, once you understand that, this book is extremely good.
It reviews the life of Jesse Mercer, a prestigious Baptist in the time of his life, though... not well known today. After it sets the picture of his life, and creates the world in which he lived, Chute progresses through the major debates circulating at the time between Primitive Baptists (hypercalvinists) and all others in favor of missions, educated ministers, and cooperation (associations). Chute deals seriously with the history and limits interpretation to that which can be corroborated by multiple sources--even so, his interpretations are not an approval or disapproval of Jesse Mercer and his dogma, but rather a filling out of the historical account.

One may wonder: why ought I read a book regarding issues long since settled?
Firstly: not all the issues are settled--there are many people who still believe that there need be proselytizing, many also who consider education of ministers a waste of time, and countless churches who prefer 'nondenominational' as their (dis)association. The issues are pressing even today.

Secondly: Jesse Mercer's life and teachings will encourage your heart and convict your spirit. You will walk away from this book with a deep appreciation for the man and his work, even if you don't consider yourself a Calvinist. You will look forward to meeting him in the new creation and strive to be a better Christian leader even now.

I sincerely recommend this book. Just don't expect to fly through it in one night.