Johann Oncken's fight for religious freedom

Johann Gerhard Oncken, the "Father of German Baptists" (January 26, 1800-January 2, 1884), lived in a period of history and resided in a country that knew nothing of soul liberty and religious freedom. On one of the many occa­sions when he was arrested for preaching without state authorization, the burgo­master (i.e., the mayor), confronted him with these words, "Oncken, as long as I can lift my little finger I will put you down from preaching this Gospel." "Mr. Burgomaster," said Mr. Oncken, "as long as I can see God's mighty hand above your little finger I will preach this Gospel!”