The Life of Abel Thomas

by: Abel Thomas

Although Abel Thomas (1737-1816) received very little education, and his outward occupation was never more than a common day-laborer, yet by faithful obedience to the Spirit of Truth he became an eminent minister in the Society of Friends. In the performance of his gospel labors, he was frequently led to travel in New England during the time of the Revolution War, because of which, on several occasions, he was in danger of losing his life. Once, for having crossed military lines into territory that was under the control of the British army, he was arrested and accused of treason, a capital offense. His innocent fearlessness in facing these trials, the heavenly wisdom with which he was endowed on such occasions, and his uncompromising obedience to the light of Jesus Christ, give great depth and value to this short memoir of his life. (Original title: A Brief Memoir Concerning Abel Thomas, A Minister of the Gospel of Christ In the Society of Friends)