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Books > Religion & Spirituality > Christianity > Protestantism & Protestant Churches > Calvinist, Reformed & Presbyterian Churches > General
Set against the background of post-revolution Scottish
ecclesiastical politics, this book addresses the hitherto largely
neglected religious dimension to the debates on Anglo-Scottish
Union. Focusing predominantly on the period between April 1706 and
January 1707, the book examines the attitudes and reactions of
Presbyterians to the treaty and challenges many of the widely held
assumptions about the role of the church and other groups during
the debate. The focal point of the Kirk's response was the
Commission of the General Assembly. Through the extensive use of
church records and other primary sources the work of the commission
in pursuit of church security through its debates, committees and
addresses, is discussed at length. The book also examines the
church and groups like the Cameronians and Hebronites in relation
to the parliamentary debate, the pursuit of alternatives to
incorporation, popular protest, addressing and armed resistance.
Guided by a penchant for self-reflection and thoughtful discussion,
Presbyterians have long been pulled in conflicting directions in
their perceptions of their shared religious mission-with a tension
that sometimes divides hearts as well as congregations. In this
first comprehensive history of the Presbyterian Church in Oklahoma,
historians Michael Cassity and Danney Goble reveal how Oklahoma
Presbyterians have responded to the demands of an evolving society,
a shifting theology, and even a divided church. Beginning with the
territorial period, Cassity and Goble examine the dynamics of
Presbyterian missions among the Five Tribes in Indian Territory and
explain how Presbyterians differed from other denominations. As
they trace the Presbyterian journey, they examine the way
Presbyterians addressed the evil of slavery and the dispossession
of Oklahoma's Indians; the challenges of industrial society; the
modern issues of depression, war, and racial injustice; and
concerns of life and faith with which other Americans have also
struggled. An insightful and independent history that draws upon
firsthand accounts of congregations and church members across the
state, Divided Hearts attests to the courage of Presbyterians in
dealing with their struggles and shows a church very much at
work-and at home-in Oklahoma.
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