Journal: Bibliotheca Sacra
Volume: BSAC 51:203 (Jul 1894)
Article: Recollections Of Noah Porter
Author: Jacob Cooper

BSac 51:203 (July 1894) p. 493

Recollections Of Noah Porter

Prof. Jacob Cooper

The most marked trait of Noah Porter was unconsciousness of self when dealing with persons, and perfect self-consciousness in his treatment of a subject. His freedom from selfishness enabled him to give himself wholly to the interests of those who sought his presence; while by voluntary concentration of thought on whatever was in hand he could wield all his intellectual force for its elucidation. The one characteristic gave him control over men by his sympathy with their interests; the other, over a subject by his grasp of its fundamental principles.

“The Perfect Christian Gentleman” is the sobriquet which unconsciously arises at the mention of his name. The well-rounded life consists in positive work for good, and negative energy toward evil. To mingle extensively with the world and yet give no offence in anything, requires a more happy union of qualities than that force of character which pursues unrelentingly a noble idea, but with an impetuosity which rudely thrusts aside all who stand in the way. Luther fells by a blow the enemy who opposes: Melanchthon raises the fallen, and through kindness reclaims from error and makes him his friend forever. If the Roman Emperor, when dying, considered the fact that he had never caused a tear greater ground of rejoicing than all his splendid achievements in arms or statesmanship, how happy must the spirit of Noah Porter be if conscious of the memories he has left with all who ever felt his winsome presence!

BSac 51:203 (July 1894) p. 494

It would be a great mistake to conclude that his character was not strong or positive because he gave no offence. There are two sorts of forces which rule the world. As attraction and repulsion act on matter, even so moral influences sway character. The one unites; the other disintegrates. Harsh measures and fierce spirits may sometimes be necessary in dealing with evil, but blessed is he who is possessed of such a temper that he can do his Master’s work, and make even bad men feel happy while their mistakes are corrected. For most men neutralize much of their good work by a severity which cares little for the method pursued, or the pain given to others, provided their own purpose be effected. But it was the special excellence of President Porter, that his goodness equalled his wisdom, and that his kindness of heart led him to feel that a great part of any desirable result consists in the happiness of the actors while engaged in achieving it. He illustrated this pre-eminently in his own conduct. If he was not always sunny in temper, he was a first-rate actor. When vexations came upon him, he was strong enough to bear them without the help or knowledge of others. The writer has never seen him m...