BIOGRAPHY: James H. Oliphant

FROM C. W. MATTOX WRITING IN THE "PRIMITIVE MONITOR," DECEMBER 1925: Elder J. H. Oliphant is, I feel, one of the most useful and able ministers that ever bore the name of Primitive Baptist. Indeed, few men have ever lived that have penned or published to the world the glorious doctrine of salvation by grace with more beauty and in all its fullness. One whose life has been a splendid example of true piety, sober mindedness, spotless integrity, and devoted service. Few of the Lord's servants of today; I fear, are making so clean a record as this dear departed father in Israel. O that our tongues might be as free from backbiting, evil communications, idle and meaningless conversation, that our hearts were as free of envy, malice, and hatred. For more than half a century, his life has been almost wholly devoted to faithful and untiring service. His able writings in book form are read and loved throughout our land, for he has truly fed the flock which Christ has purchased with his own blood. While his labors on earth are done, he will long live in the memory of those with whom he has come in contact, more especially with those in the churches which he pastored and visited. We do well remember his visits to our home in our youthful days, where his wise counsel was so much sought, and his friendly manner so highly respected and esteemed. Would that the younger ministry of today would study as incessantly to show themselves approved unto God, workmen that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth, shunning profane and vain babblings, for such things saith the apostle, increaseth unto more ungodliness. Then our many churches so richly blessed in temporal things, would undoubtedly bear more fruit unto the Lord, thus reciprocating their energy and zeal to the called servants of the Most High.

FROM A LETTER TO C. W. MATTOX BY MABEL OLIPHANT: Grandfather's last visit to our house was in May. His physical condition had weakened him mentally until he became unable at time to converse intelligently. On subjects pertaining to the Bible or religion, his mind remained clear, and during the visit, he sang distinctly for us his favorite song, "Savior, more than life to me." On the first Sunday during this visit, he preached his last sermon publicly, speaking in power and demonstration of the Spirit for about thirty minutes. After being confined to his bed, he sang and prayed and preached as long as strength permitted. What a wonderful, precious, loving father he has been. In my acquaintance of more than thirty years not a fault have I ever detected, but in wisdom and love and gentleness has he sought to encourage, uplift, instruct, and comfort rather than amuse and gratify the desires of the flesh. How sweet to me is the memory, when only a child he took me in his arms, making me feel that he loved and cared. This interest never abated, but grew stronger with the oncoming years. He it was who taught me in childhood, spiritually. Through him was life brought to light in the gospel he preached, then came my baptism at his hands, and because of these things I have felt bound to him by cords stronger than any earthly tie.