George Washington was a theist, not a Deist.īut Boller rejects Washington's "Christianity" because, as he put it,į to believe in the divinity and resurrection of Christ and his atonement for the sins of man and to participate in the sacrament of the Lord's Supper are requisites for the Christian faith, then Washington, on the evidence which we have examined, can hardly be considered a Christian, except in the most nominal sense. Here Lillback rightly objects that terming such theology "Deism" when that term, to too many modern ears, connotes a non-interventionist God, is problematic. Indeed, Boller admits that Washington's Grand Architect "Deist" God was an active intervener. Thompson both have written books in the 300 page range that prove Washington's belief in an active Providence. And Lillback didn't need to write 1200 pages to demonstrate Washington believed in an active personal God. Though some notable scholars have so claimed, Boller did not. Lillback does answer the claim that GW was a strict Deist, that is one who believes in a non-interventionist God and categorically rejects all written revelation. ![]() Most "Christian America" scholars asserting Washington's devout Christianity simply ignore such evidence, like for instance that Washington refused to take communion in his church such that his own minister termed him a "Deist" or "not a real Christian" for this. ![]() To his credit, Lillback's is familiar with almost every claim Boller makes and seeks to answer them. And Boller claims Washington some kind of "Deist," that evidence lacks for his Christian orthodoxy. Boller to James Flexner, who claim Washington was some kind of Deist.īoller's "George Washington & Religion," among respected historians, is the generally accepted standard-bearer work of scholarship on the matter. No, this book aims squarely at respected scholars, notably experts on Washington's life, from Paul F. Most ordinary folks will not, like me, finish or even read a fraction of a 1200 page book with 200 pages of fineprint footnotes. Both events are free to the public.That "the masses" are buying the book in great numbers is ironic. at the Historic Paramount Theater in downtown Abilene. His academic interests include church history, the doctrine of Scripture, public theology, the theology of John Calvin, Johannine Theology, and Christianity as it relates to American history. Lillback holds degrees from Cedarville University (B.A.), Dallas Theological Seminary (Th.M.), and Westminster Theological Seminary (Ph.D.). His unparalleled scholarship, warm disposition, and unique style have made him a much sought-after speaker at events and venues around the world.ĭr. Lillback’s speaking schedule has included Italy, Scotland, China, Indonesia, South Korea, South Africa, and Australia. Students might be surprised to hear about the depth of George Washington’s faith.”ĭr. “His research connects so well with HSU’s mission to provide an education enlightened by faith. ![]() He is also the author of the #1 National Bestseller, “George Washington’s Sacred Fire.” His book catalogs an exhaustive fifteen years of research, on the spiritual life of the nation’s first president. Lillback is president and professor of historical theology and church history at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. Lillback’s message will explore the spiritual beliefs of George Washington.Chapel credit will be available at this event.ĭr. Peter Lillback will give a special President’s Day lecture on Feb.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |