Archives

The Confessional Presbyterian Archive is a curated digital library dedicated to preserving and promoting the writings of 17th–20th century Presbyterian pastors, teachers, and leaders. Featuring thousands of searchable texts, biographies, and historical resources, the archive provides direct access to the primary-source materials of American Presbyterianism.

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The Life of John Brainerd, the Brother of David Brainerd, and His Successor as Missionary to the Indians of New Jersey

Biography of Rev. John Brainerd, Presbyterian missionary to New Jersey Indians, recounting his life, labors, trials, relations with David Brainerd, and church/synod affairs.

John Brainerd, Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1865

Life of Rev. Thomas Brainerd, D.D.: for Thirty Years Pastor of Old Pine Street Church, Philadelphia

Biography of Rev. Thomas Brainerd, D.D., detailing his ancestry, Puritan childhood, pastoral ministry, ecclesiastical controversies, and life as a Philadelphia pastor.

Mary Whiting Brainerd, Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1870

Introductory Preface to The Life of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ

Preface and introductory dissertation to a compiled Life of Jesus Christ. It unites the Gospels, defends Christianity, and traces Jewish history to Jerusalem's destruction.

Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1834

An Historical Sketch of the Pine Street, or, Third Presbyterian Church in the City of Philadelphia

1837 historical sketch of The Pine Street (Third) Presbyterian Church, Philadelphia, detailing its founding, ministers, congregation, memorials, and legacy for future generations.

John Welwood Scott, Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1837

Our Country Safe from Romanism: A Sermon Delivered at the Opening of the Third Presbytery of Philadelphia, … Philadelphia, April, 1841

1841 sermon arguing the U.S. need not fear a Roman Catholic takeover—citing Protestant strength, political shifts, and urging measured vigilance and Gospel-focused labor.

Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1843

On the Death of General Jackson

Two sermons: one views the recent city fire as God's providence and warns of final judgment. The other urges prayer for rulers and outlines national virtues—liberty, industry, temperance.

Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1845

“Old Pine Street Church”

Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1848

The Lament of the Church at the Sepulchre of the Righteous: A Sermon on the Death of Frederick A. Raybold, Esq., … May 11th, 1851

A 1851 funeral sermon for Frederick A. Raybold reflecting on Stephen’s burial (Acts 8), offering Christian consolation and affirming hope in death and the resurrection.

Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1851

Our Church and Our Review

Affirms the permanence and independence of the separated Presbyterian body, upholding Westminster standards, theological freedom, orderly government, and denominational expansion. Rejects reunion with brethren who refuse communion or repudiate their principles.

Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1852

Daniel Webster

Reflection on true greatness: worldly fame vs. godly virtue. Great men (Moses, David, Paul, Webster) are portrayed as providential instruments raised by God.

Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1852

The Value of a Good Wife

Two essays urging household religion: Joshua's call to serve the Lord and Solomon's praise of a virtuous wife (Prov. 31). Practical counsel on family, marriage, and domestic piety.

Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1858

Popular Objections to Divine Goodness from the Existence of Evil

Argues that natural and moral evils do not disprove God's goodness; they manifest sin, restrain vice, discipline believers, wean hearts from the world, and prepare souls for eternity.

Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1859

Old Pine Street Church: Manual of the Third Presbyterian Church, In the City of Philadelphia

Brief history of Old Pine Street Church (Philadelphia): founded in the 1760s, connected to the Whitefield/Tennent revivals, endured Revolutionary occupation, with notable Presbyterian pastors and building changes.

Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1859

Who Is Responsible for the Present Slavery Agitation?

Examines responsibility for the U.S. slavery agitation, blaming slavery itself, southern politicians, and mercenary agitators; urges Christian reform.

Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1860

Remarks of Rev. Dr. Brainerd: At the Funeral of Lieut. John T. Greble, U.S.A.

Funeral remarks honoring Lt. John T. Greble, praising his exemplary life, Christian faith, and calm courage; frames his death as martyrdom for country and offers consolation.

Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1861

Quarter Century Sermon

Thomas Brainerd's 1862 25th‑anniversary sermon reflects on gratitude, pastoral responsibility, and shared sorrow across a quarter‑century of ministry in Philadelphia.

Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1862

Death of Rev. Benjamin John Wallace

Obituary and memorial for Rev. Benjamin J. Wallace (1810–1862), praising his Christian patriotism, scholarly ministry, and mourning his son and wartime losses.

Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1862

Patriotism Aiding Piety: A Sermon, Preached in the Third Presbyterian Church, Philadelphia, on the 30th of April, 1863

Civil War–era sermon calling for a national day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer. Urges patriotism to be expressed as piety and repentance (Esther 4:14).

Thomas Brainerd ⬩ 1863

The Habeas Corpus, and Martial Law

1861 essays and correspondence debating suspension of the writ of habeas corpus and martial law. Examines Lincoln/Bates arguments, court opinions (Treat, Taney), and civil liberty vs. Union preservation.

Robert Levi Breck ⬩ 1862

The Western Luminary, Vol. 1

John Breckinridge ⬩ 1824

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