Ellet Joseph Waggoner (1855-1916)
E. J. Waggoner was a physician, editor, and theologian whose preaching and writing became central to the Adventist righteousness-by-faith discussions of the late nineteenth century. His ministry is closely tied to the 1888 Minneapolis session and to the later theological development of gospel preaching in Adventism.
Early Years and Editorial Work
Waggoner was born in Baraboo, Wisconsin, on January 12, 1855, the son of J. H. Waggoner. He studied at Battle Creek College and later completed medical training before working at Battle Creek Sanitarium. In the early 1880s he moved into editorial ministry at Signs of the Times in California, where his theological voice became widely known.
1888 and the Gospel Emphasis
At the 1888 General Conference session in Minneapolis, Waggoner and A. T. Jones presented studies centered on Christ's righteousness and justification by faith. Their approach generated strong debate, but it also marked a lasting shift toward more explicit Christ-centered preaching in Adventist life.
Writing and International Service
Waggoner published major books and articles on Galatians, Romans, covenant theology, and Christ's righteousness. In 1892 he went to England, edited The Present Truth, and taught in ministerial training settings for about a decade before returning to the United States.
Final Years
After later personal and institutional conflict, he separated from denominational employment. He eventually worked again in Battle Creek, where he died on May 28, 1916.