Meaning: The quote "I do not purpose to discuss faith in its dogmatic sense today" by Matthew Simpson, a clergyman, suggests that the speaker is not intending to engage in a detailed or rigid examination of faith from a doctrinal or strictly religious perspective at the present moment. Instead, the quote implies that the speaker may be focusing on a different aspect of faith or approaching the topic from a more open or flexible viewpoint.

Matthew Simpson was a prominent figure in the Methodist Episcopal Church in the United States during the 19th century. He served as a bishop and was known for his eloquent oratory and strong advocacy for abolitionism. Simpson's influence extended beyond his role in the church, as he was also a trusted advisor to President Abraham Lincoln. His views on faith and religion were shaped by his experiences in the church and his engagement with the social and political issues of his time.

The phrase "faith in its dogmatic sense" refers to faith as it is understood and prescribed within the framework of specific religious doctrines, beliefs, or teachings. Dogma, in a religious context, refers to the established principles or doctrines that are considered to be unquestionably true within a particular faith tradition. By stating that he does not intend to discuss faith in its dogmatic sense, Simpson may be signaling a departure from a purely doctrinal or rigid interpretation of faith, suggesting a more nuanced or open-minded approach to the topic.

Simpson's reluctance to discuss faith in its dogmatic sense may be indicative of a broader trend within religious discourse during his time. The 19th century was a period of significant intellectual and theological ferment, marked by challenges to traditional religious authority and the emergence of new ways of understanding faith and spirituality. Scholars and religious thinkers were increasingly grappling with questions about the nature of faith, the relationship between religion and science, and the relevance of traditional dogmas in the modern world.

In the context of Simpson's quote, it is possible that he was seeking to engage with faith in a way that transcended narrow doctrinal boundaries and embraced a more inclusive and expansive understanding of religious belief. This approach may have been influenced by Simpson's commitment to social justice and his belief in the inherent dignity and worth of all individuals, regardless of their religious affiliations or beliefs.

Simpson's stance on faith also reflects the ongoing tension between orthodoxy and progressivism within religious communities. While dogma provides a sense of stability and continuity within religious traditions, it can also be seen as constraining and exclusionary, especially when it conflicts with evolving social and ethical norms. By expressing a reluctance to discuss faith in its dogmatic sense, Simpson may have been signaling his willingness to engage in a more open and dynamic exploration of faith that was responsive to the changing needs and aspirations of society.

It is worth noting that Simpson's quote does not dismiss the importance of dogma or the significance of doctrinal faith. Instead, it suggests a deliberate choice to focus on aspects of faith that may transcend or challenge traditional dogmatic formulations. This approach aligns with the broader theological and philosophical currents of Simpson's time, which sought to reconcile the enduring truths of religious tradition with the complexities of modern life.

In conclusion, Matthew Simpson's quote "I do not purpose to discuss faith in its dogmatic sense today" reflects his nuanced approach to the topic of faith and his willingness to engage with it in a manner that goes beyond strict doctrinal interpretations. By acknowledging the limitations of discussing faith solely within a dogmatic framework, Simpson opens the door to a more expansive and inclusive exploration of religious belief, one that is attuned to the evolving needs and aspirations of individuals and society.