#149 - Jerry Newcombe

As America approaches the 250th anniversary of independence, debates over the faith of the Founding Fathers—and the meaning of “Christian Nationalism”—are more relevant than ever.In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jerry Newcombe, co-author of Thomas Jefferson and The God Who Gave Us Liberty: Christian Nationalist? or Secular Deist?, to explore the real Thomas Jefferson: author of the Declaration of Independence, advocate for religious liberty, founder of the University of Virginia, and one of the most debated religious figures in American history.Was Jefferson a secular deist who wanted faith removed from public life? Or was he a self-identified Christian who believed religion played a vital role in sustaining liberty? Drawing from Jefferson’s writings, public actions, and newly uncovered letters, Beliles challenges modern assumptions about Jefferson, church and state, and America’s founding principles.This conversation is essential for anyone interested in American history, religious liberty, the Founders, and the ongoing debate over faith in public life.Topics include:Thomas Jefferson’s personal faithThe Declaration of Independence and “the God who gave us liberty”Jefferson’s views on church and stateReligious freedom in early AmericaChristianity, deism, and the Founding FathersWhat modern Americans misunderstand about JeffersonGet the book: Thomas Jefferson and The God Who Gave Us Liberty: Christian Nationalist? or Secular Deist? by Mark A. Beliles and Jerry Newcombe. https://www.amazon.com/dp/1636989713?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback⭐ ORDER NOW:Revolution: The Birth of the Greatest Nation in the History of the World📕: https://a.co/d/0ir3NlapTODAY'S SPONSORS:🛏️ MyPillow — Save BIG with code ERIC: https://www.mypillow.com/☀️ Honest, fast, and free Medicare plan guidance: https://askchapter.com/metaxas/💧 Sentry H2O: https://sentryh2o.com/- - -