Edited by John Ellis in Dayton, Ohio, The Gospel Herald was the western expression of the so-called "Christian movement" tradition. This movement embraced political and religious democracy, and rejected sectarian beliefs and practices. The newspaper was decidedly anti-slavery.
The stated mission of the paper reads: "It is designed to be an exponent of "the Faith once delivered to the Saints." It acknowledges no authority in religious doctrine and morals, but the sacred scriptures; bows to no human creeds, confessions of faith, or discipline; and will earnestly contend for those pure and heavenborn principles on which the christrian church stands predicated. We earnestly desire the co-operation of all liberal Christians, for we are not laboring to build up a religious sect, but to extend those liberal truths born in the infinite councils of heaven, and brought down to earth by the blessed Savior amid the song of angels."
Gospel Herald 
