When I started preaching the gospel of Christ an older preacher, brother Max Dawson, suggested that I build my library around debate books. At the time I was not really sure why he made such a suggestion, but now the reasons are abundantly clear.
Truth shines brighter when plainly contrasted with error.
Reading these debates has served to give me the boldness all preachers need in presenting the gospel of Christ. Having engaged in several debates myself, I take joy in preaching the gospel to the lost and shutting the mouths of false teachers. Ben Bogard was the greatest debater the Baptist church has ever produced. Bogard debated many of my brethren and always proved himself to be an honorable and worthy opponent. Baptist preachers of our day lack the conviction their brethren had in days gone by.