Elias Smith (1769-1846) was one of the early Restoration Movement figures in New England. His independent-thinking led him to question the commonly-held religious doctrines of his day. However, more than merely questioning such things, J. F. Burnett described Smith as having “an intense hatred for everything ecclesiastical” (Biographical Sketches, p. 68) as he observed the empty forms and traditions in the churches of his day. Eventually, he began the work of writing and publishing his own religious magazine as a way to combat the religious establishment.
“In 1805, Elder Smith began the publication of a magazine. He named it ‘The Christian’s Magazine.’ It was published once in three months, and paid for when delivered to subscribers, at twelve and one-half cents each. In this publication he scathingly criticized the established ministry of the church, and their popular sermons. He held a pen in one hand, and a battle axe in the other. All that pent-up feeling against useless forms, powdered wigs and church paraphernalia now had outlet through this printed mouthpiece. His hitherto trammeled mind simply reveled in the luxury of its freedom, and riotously went forth to kill and to make alive.” (Ibid., p. 77).
We sometimes hear the phrase, “The pen is mightier than the sword.” This is intended to emphasize just how powerful the written word can be in advancing a cause or in defeating an enemy. This is exactly what Smith set out to do through his writing.Continue Reading