Reformed Forum C. N. Willborn | Recovering John L. Girardeau: A Giant of Southern Presbyterianism
Jan 2, 2026
C. N. Willborn, a pastor and scholar from Covenant PCA, explores the life of John L. Girardeau, an influential yet often overlooked figure in Southern Presbyterianism. They discuss Girardeau’s remarkable pastoral care, his commitment to integrating Black congregants, and his theological prowess. Willborn delves into Girardeau's convictions against segregation, his noteworthy writings on adoption and worship, and how his diverse heritage shaped his views. This conversation sheds light on Girardeau’s enduring impact on American Presbyterian history and encourages a ministry rooted in love and doctrinal fidelity.
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A Chance Encounter That Sparked Research
- C. N. Willborn first encountered Girardeau while researching adoption at Westminster and was told Sinclair Ferguson called Girardeau's writing "the most important 19th century writing by an American Presbyterian."
- That serendipitous encounter sparked Willborn's deeper research and eventual dissertation focus on Girardeau's life and theology.
Covenant Theology Made His Ministry Practical
- Willborn argues Girardeau's stronger covenant theology made his teaching more practically useful than some contemporaries like Dabney.
- This federal emphasis shaped Girardeau's preaching, pastoral care, and theological influence in the Southern church.
Preaching That Reached Everyone
- At Zion Presbyterian Girardeau preached three services to over 1,500 people and taught slaves catechism so effectively he was accused of teaching them to read.
- He tailored sermons so everyone, illiterate or learned, "knew what he was talking about," earning comparisons to Spurgeon.