Thomas Kidd – författare

Whether America was founded as a Christian nation or as a secular republic is one of the most fiercely debated questions in American history. Historians Matthew Harris and Thomas Kidd offer an authoritative examination of the essential documents needed to understand this debate. The texts included in this volume - writings and speeches from both well-known and obscure early American thinkers - show that religion played a prominent yet fractious role in the era of the American Revolution. In their personal beliefs, the Founders ranged from profound skeptics like Thomas Paine to traditional Christians like Patrick Henry. Nevertheless, most of the Founding Fathers rallied around certain crucial religious principles, including the idea that people were "created " equal, the belief that religious freedom required the disestablishment of state-backed denominations, the necessity of virtue in a republic, and the role of Providence in guiding the affairs of nations. Harris and Kidd show that through the struggles of war and the framing of the Constitution, Americans sought to reconcile their dedication to religious vitality with their commitment to religious freedom.

Whether America was founded as a Christian nation or as a secular republic is one of the most fiercely debated questions in American history. Historians Matthew Harris and Thomas Kidd offer an authoritative examination of the essential documents needed to understand this debate. The texts included in this volume - writings and speeches from both well-known and obscure early American thinkers - show that religion played a prominent yet fractious role in the era of the American Revolution. In their personal beliefs, the Founders ranged from profound skeptics like Thomas Paine to traditional Christians like Patrick Henry. Nevertheless, most of the Founding Fathers rallied around certain crucial religious principles, including the idea that people were "created " equal, the belief that religious freedom required the disestablishment of state-backed denominations, the necessity of virtue in a republic, and the role of Providence in guiding the affairs of nations. Harris and Kidd show that through the struggles of war and the framing of the Constitution, Americans sought to reconcile their dedication to religious vitality with their commitment to religious freedom.

p class="MsoPlainText"At the dawn of the Revolutionary War, America was already a nation of diverse faiths- the First Great Awakening and Enlightenment concepts such as deism and atheism had endowed the colonists with varying and often opposed religious beliefs. Despite their differences, however, Americans found common ground against British tyranny and formed an alliance that would power the American Revolution. In God of Liberty , historian Thomas S. Kidd offers the first comprehensive account of religion's role during this transformative period. A compelling testament to evangelical Christians' crucial contribution to American independence, God of Liberty is also a timely appeal for the same spiritual vitality that gave form to our nation and sustained it through its tumultuous birth.

Biography Explores the Life of George Whitefield, an Important Figure in the Early Evangelical RevivalGeorge Whitefield’s bold “born-again” theology and passionate sermons established him as a key figure during the 18th century. Many Christians are familiar with evangelists of this time including Jonathan Edwards and John Wesley, but Whitefield, arguably the most significant member of the trio, often goes unnoticed in the church today. After experiencing a profound encounter with Jesus during his time at Oxford, Whitefield dedicated his life to teaching the Scriptures to others and calling people to experience the joy of knowing and loving God. This biography aims to restore Whitefield as a prominent figure in the early evangelical revival while addressing the complexities of the time in an honest, historical, and balanced way. Authors Tom Schwanda and Ian Maddock invite readers to explore the life of George Whitefield and his commitment to guiding souls toward Jesus.  Part of the Theologians on the Christian Life Series: Provides accessible introductions to some of church history’s greatest teachersPastors, Interested Lay Readers, and Historians: Great for adult education, small groups, and college and seminary courses on evangelicalismHonest: A full chapter is devoted to Whitefield’s relationship to slavery and his contribution to establishing black evangelicalism

An Introduction to the Life and Work of J. C. Ryle John Charles Ryle (1816–1900), a lover of Puritan theology, was one of the most popular evangelical orators and lively tract writers. Known for his direct and punchy style, Ryle expressed gospel truths with clarity and vivacity, leaving a legacy that continues to shape Christians today.This book traces the life of J. C. Ryle, highlighting his work as a clergyman in the Church of England, the first Bishop of Liverpool, and a prolific tract writer. His tracts were designed to grab his readers’ attention, with pithy titles like Are You Forgiven?; Are You Happy?; Do You Believe?; and Repent or Perish!. Ryle on the Christian Life offers a fresh examination of Ryle’s timeless writings, delving into his profound wisdom on key topics such as Scripture, salvation, the cross of Christ, conversion, revival, sovereign grace, and more. Part of the Theologians on the Christian Life Series: Provides accessible introductions to some of church history’s greatest teachersHistorical: Provides a compelling account of J. C. Ryle’s life as a clergyman, bishop, and tract writer, highlighting his lasting impact on the churchWise Teachings: Presents Ryle’s timeless teachings about Scripture, salvation, conversion, revival, grace, holiness, and more

Francis J. Grimké’s Vision of the Christian Life Francis Grimké’s life left a significant mark on American Christianity at the turn of the 20th century. Born enslaved in South Carolina, Grimké dedicated his life to teaching and preaching the gospel and confronting the racism and injustice of his time. For 50 years, he served as a Presbyterian pastor in Washington, DC, emerging as a prominent leader in the early civil rights movement.This book explores Grimké’s vision of the Christian life, emphasizing his beliefs on personal piety, family, the mission of the church, and the relationship between faith and politics. His blend of doctrinal integrity and social concern helps readers wisely engage in topics like race, ethnicity, culture, and politics in the church today. As the church continues to navigate these polarized issues, Grimké reminds us that, through Christ, unity is possible. Part of the Theologians on the Christian Life Series: Provides accessible introductions to some of church history’s greatest teachersContemporary Application: Helps individuals address issues such as race, ethnicity, culture, and politics within the church todayAcademic yet Accessible: For those interested in practical theology and the intersection between Christian faith, race, and politics