Thomas Campbell 
Declaration and Address of the Christian Association of Washington 

Thomas Campbell’s ‘Declaration and Address of the Christian Association of Washington’ is a profound work that serves as a key foundational text in the Restoration Movement within American Christianity. Published in 1809, this book outlines Campbell’s vision for a unified and simplified form of Christianity, free from the sectarian divisions that had plagued the church. The writing style is clear and direct, reflecting Campbell’s practical approach to religious matters. The book addresses theological issues, church governance, and the role of tradition in the Christian faith, making it a significant contribution to the dialogue on religious unity and purity. Campbell’s work also reflects the Enlightenment ideals of reason and tolerance, emphasizing the importance of individual conscience in matters of faith. With its emphasis on Christian unity and simplicity, ‘Declaration and Address’ is a timeless piece that continues to resonate with modern readers seeking a deeper understanding of the Christian faith.

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Thomas Campbell (1763–1854) was a prominent figure in the early 19th-century movement for Christian unity. Born in County Down, Ireland, and educated at the University of Glasgow in Scotland, Campbell became an ordained minister in the Seceder Presbyterian Church. However, his ecumenical approach increasingly distanced him from sectarianism. In pursuit of a more universal Christianity, Campbell moved to the United States in 1807, where he worked to promote religious reformation and unity among Christians beyond denominational lines.

His seminal work, the ‘Declaration and Address of the Christian Association of Washington’ (1809), laid the foundational principles for what later became known as the Stone-Campbell Movement. In this document, Campbell advocated for a return to the practices of the early Christian church and emphasized the Bible as the sole rule of faith and practice. Campbell’s call for Christian unity and his challenge to traditional denominationalism were influential in the development of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), the Churches of Christ, and the Independent Christian Churches/Churches of Christ. As a scholar and reformer, Campbell’s legacy is marked by his commitment to biblical authority and the unity of all Christians, which continues to be a resonant theme in contemporary Christian discourse.