This is 1935 footage of my Great, Great, Grandfather - Hampton House Stratton. He was born in Obion County Tennessee on June 24, 1843. Hampton fought in the Civil War - originally for the south, but after being captured by the Union Army he agreed to fight for the North. After the war ended he became a Christ-follower and eventually was called into ministry. He planted over sixty churches in his life time. His brother, Uriah planted forty churches and the two of them, along with Uriah's Father-in-law established the General Baptist Organization in Missouri. On September 18, 1937 - After preaching a sermon about Heaven in the first church he had planted in Ellsinore, Missouri - Hampton House Stratton collapsed dead in the pulpit. They literally had to pry his hands from the podium.
I've just recently learned about Hampton. My father never mentioned him - I don't think he ever knew anything about him. It's so interesting that I would learn of this heritage after recently feeling God call me to begin planting churches across the country. This is no coincidence - This is confirmation! I can't let that old man plant more churches than me! We've got to get busy! I pray one day they'll have to pry my hands from a pulpit as well!
Wow, what an amazing history you have! I gave my life to Christ on June 22, 2008 at the foot of the altar at Crossroads church and it will be my church for life. I would love to be one of the people that helps you plant those churches...just say the words...wherever the Lord leads us!!!!!
ReplyDeleteIf you are going to match his plantings you better get busy. HA HA. I know you can do it.
ReplyDeleteHe must be so happy that something so important to him is living on in you. I'm sure he is by your side every step of the way!
ReplyDeleteGreat story Jeff. MO is my home state. I have been to Ellsinor MO. The General Baptist are very strong in MO. As a teenager I preached in their churches and had friends who pastored their churchs. Thanks for posting. HLGoza
ReplyDeleteWow what an amazing heritage knowing the energy it takes to plant he must have been an amazing man to fry and keep up with. Go for it! We can rest in heaven. You once told me that when I was complaining once. Still rings in my ears. Too many souls not enough time!!
ReplyDeleteI do see a resemblance! haha sorry just had to throw that in there.
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