author
J. W. (James Walton) Shepherd
1861–1948
A preacher, editor, and teacher in the Churches of Christ, this Kentucky-born writer helped shape Restoration Movement thought through practical books and years of religious journalism. His work reflects a plainspoken, instructional style aimed at everyday readers and church members.
1 Audiobook
The Church, the Falling Away, and the Restoration
by J. W. (James Walton) Shepherd
About the author
Born near Lexington, Kentucky, on August 18, 1861, he was converted under the preaching of James A. Harding and studied at the College of the Bible in Lexington. He went on to preach in the United States and also spent several years in mission work in Australia and New Zealand.
He later served in several influential roles, including librarian at Nashville Bible School, office manager of the Gospel Advocate, and editor of the Bible Advocate and the Leader. Alongside that editorial work, he wrote books and instructional religious works that were widely used in Churches of Christ circles.
Shepherd died on July 27, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan. He is remembered as a steady voice in the Restoration Movement, especially for writing that was meant to clarify church teaching, answer practical questions, and guide readers in Christian life and church practice.