Gentleness vs.Harshness "Showing consideration and personal concern for others"   GENTLENESS– A One-Minute Testimonial Announcement Faith Committee, Character Council of Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky Contributed by B. E. Tumbleson Librarian, Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy, Cincinnati, OH January 5, 2002 RICHARD BAXTER, PURITAN PEACEMAKER Richard Baxter (1615-1691) demonstrated gentleness during the extreme period of English Puritanism and the English Civil War. Baxter is recognized as a great and gentle pastor. He served as vicar of Kidderminster to loom workers, chaplain in the Parliamentarian army, and later chaplain to Charles II. Baxter was a peacemaker who worked for the unity of the church through his involvement in the major controversies of his day. He strove for cooperation among Anglicans, Presbyterians, and Congregationalists. “In necessary things, unity; in doubtful things liberty; in all things, charity.” (p. 87) In theology and politics Baxter valued moderation; nevertheless, he suffered persecution as a nonconformist. He was forbidden to preach and imprisoned for 18 months. The independent thinker wrote more than 200 doctrinal works and devotional classics. His autobiography and The Reformed Pastor are still read today. Richard Baxter rose to prominence because of his gentle spirit and moderation in this harsh age. [Adapted from 131 Christians Everyone Should Know, Mark Galli, Broadman & Holman, Nashville 2000.] This material is published by the Faith Committee of the Character Council of Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Reproduction and Adaptation is encouraged.