john chambers was one of the first among popular preachers of the nineteenth century in philadelphia, and the pastor for fifty years of one congregation.
not alone to delight those with vivid memories, who knew, loved and honored john chambers, have i undertaken this work of filial piety, but to tell to young men of to-day the story of a consecrated, strenuous, and successful life, the secret of which was self-conquest and strength in god.
one great purpose and benefit of biography is lost if it does not clearly reveal the growth of character, and, in the case of a beautiful and successful life, a personality worthy of being held up as an example. it ought to show also self-conquest, ripening in wisdom, the philosophic mind that comes with years, and the maturing and sweetening influences of honored old age. it would be of little help to young men, struggling against their own besetting weaknesses to gain self-mastery and attainment to true christian manhood, to picture only the john chambers, as we knew him,—in the serene evening of life, when passions had cooled and reason reigned, and the gray light of heaven's morning had settled on his head. i have tried to show in the typical irishman, the creature of heredity and the passionate patriot, the aspiring christian and the child of god, educated by unseen but potent influences, winning steadfast victory over sin and self, becoming king of men and master of hearts, leading a host to triumph along the pathway to heaven, able to do all things through christ his helper.
the wonderful character and personality of john chambers were not sudden creations. they were growths. he himself believed that while justification was instant, sanctification was gradual. he laughed at the man who professed never to have made mistakes. he had always patience with those who slipped and fell. he showed us how to neutralize the results of our missteps and gain new strength by painful and humiliating experiences.
i return my hearty thanks to one and all of the friends, fellow alumni of the old first independent church of philadelphia, who have aided me with reminiscences, asking pardon for omissions and indulgence for possible errors.
w. e. g.
ithaca, n. y., july 20, 1903.
