The Character and Influence of Abolitionism. A Sermon Preached in the First Presbyterian Church, Brooklyn, on Sabbath Evening, December 9th, 1860.

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Apparently seen in editions of 24pp. and 31pp. and 38pp., a sermon against abolition. Author Rev. Henry J. Van Dyke (1822–1891), a prominent Presbyterian preacher and anti-abolitionist, declares that “abolitionism is the chief cause of the strife that agitates and the danger that threatens our country.” (p25)

Van Dyke argues that abolitionism has no foundation in the Bible and “...that the gospel does not forbid slavery…” and warns against the dissolution of the Union and the danger of war: “If we were sure of a peaceful solution, at whatever pecuniary or social sacrifice, we would not feel so deeply nor speak earnestly. But who knows that it will be peaceful? Where is the surgeon who can sever one member from this body politic without the shedding of blood?” (pp30–31)

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