Articles by Dr. Mark Rasmussen

Baptists We Should Know: John Ryland (1753–1825)
In a day when more and more people feel that young people are exempted from a life of service, one could be challenged by the life of John Ryland.
Baptists We Should Know: Ollin Heber Neale (1808–1879)
Baptists We Should Know
Ollin Heber Neale was very interested in what was going on politically in the country. He did not hesitate to address the moral questions that troubled America during this era. While he was kind, his stance for that which was right and difficult impacted his community for Christ.
Baptists We Should Know: John Oncken, 1800–1884
Thousands of German Believers turned to salvation by faith alone through the ministry of John Oncken. Oncken was known for his strong convictions, his insight into the Word of God, and his oratorical abilities. Because of John Oncken’s preaching many were converted, and a powerful spiritual awakening swept through Germany.
Baptists We Should Know: John Clarke, 1609–1676
Dr. John Clarke (1609–1676) was a leader in American political and religious history. John Clarke was called a Puritan of Puritans and dedicated himself to eliminating the king's ability to direct the church. Finding it impossible to keep the monarchy out of the church, Clarke decided to leave with his family and go to the New World.
Baptists We Should Know: Rufus Burleson, 1823–1901
Rufus Burleson was a man who was fixed with a purpose, full of courage, yet amiable and generous. At age sixteen he accepted the Lord Jesus Christ and was baptized the following Sunday by William Holcombe. At age seventeen he went off to Nashville University to study law. The Lord spoke to his heart, and Burleson laid aside his aspirations in order to pursue a life of ministry.
Baptists We Should Know: Isaac Backus, 1724–1806
Isaac Backus was born in 1724 to a Congregationalist family. He followed in that tradition and became a member of the congregational church during a time of controversy. The Half-Way Covenant, which allowed people to become members of the church without a salvation testimony, had split the Congregationalists. Backus’ family became convinced of the need for saved membership and joined the “New Light” faction.