The Life Work of John L. Girardeau, D.D., LLD; Late Professor in the Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Columbia, S.C.

by George Andrew Blackburn

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1916 edition. ... CHAPTER II CONVERSION AND EARLY MINISTRY By George A. Blackburn, D. D. Young Girardeau graduated from the High School when he was between fourteen and fifteen years of age. That fall he entered the Charleston College. Here begins his spiritual life. At the end of the "Memoirs of Thomas Halyburton" he has left the following "Over and over again have I read this remarkable dying experience. Lord, help me in my last hour! Calvin, Owen, Witsius, Halyburton and Thornwell have been among the chief of my instructors. The account of Wilberforce Richmond's dying experience in Grimshaw's 'Legh Richmond's Domestic Portraiture,' was the proximate instrument in the hands of the ever blessed Spirit of leading me to believe in Jesus. It was at the north corner of King Street and Price's Alley in Charleston. Oh, the unutterable rapture of that hour when I found him, after a month's conflict with sin and hell! The heavens and the earth seemed to be singing psalms of praise for redeeming love." In an old Bible the following record was "J. L. Girardeau joined Third Presbyterian Church, Charleston, S. O, October 18th, 1840. Aged fourteen years and eleven months." Dr. Girardeau's account of that awful month of conviction was enough to send terror to any unconverted soul. He had just entered college when a gloom like that of eternal night fell upon his soul. His conscience pointed to his sinful nature, the unbearable holiness of God, and the naming bar of judgment. In everything about him he saw the warnings of coming vengeance, while the lurid glare of an eternal hell was ever before his fervid imagination. His case seemed hopeless. He could not see how any one would want to laugh; he could not see how any one could enjoy a life that was...

128 pages, Paperback

First published September 12, 2013

Reviews

[Zack · Rating 5 out of 5]

This rare volume is a fascinating tribute to a remarkable man and minister, Dr. John L. Girardeau. Though this book will be of particular interest to Presbyterian and Reformed ministers with ties to the American South (and especially to the state of South Carolina), it is a worthy read for any lovers of Christian history and biography. Certain chapters will especially appeal to readers with an interest in Philosophy and/or Theology.