Life Sketches Manuscript

Fanaticism

Some things at this camp-meeting perplexed me exceedingly. I could not understand the exercises of many persons during the conference meetings, both at the stand and in the tents. They shouted at the top of their voices, clapped their hands, and appeared greatly excited. Quite a number fell, through exhaustion, it appeared to me; but those present said they were sanctified to God, and this wonderful manifestation was the power of the Almighty upon them. After lying motionless for a time, these persons would rise, and again talk and shout as before. LSMS 18.3

In some of the tents, meetings were continued through the night, by those who were praying for freedom from sin and the sanctification of the Spirit of God. Quite a number became sick in consequence of the excitement and loss of sleep and were obliged to leave the ground. LSMS 19.1

These singular manifestations brought no relief to me, but rather increased my discouragement. I despaired of ever becoming a Christian if in order to obtain the blessing it was necessary for me to be exercised as these people were. I was terrified by such peculiar demonstrations, and at a loss to understand them. LSMS 19.2

I passed into a tent where the people were praying and shouting, some confessing their sins and crying for mercy, while others were rejoicing in their new-found happiness. LSMS 19.3