by
4.22 of 5 stars
An enlightening, engaging and long overdue correction of the falsehood that Washington lacked faith.

-Rodney Stark, Baylor University
George ... read full description


reviews

Sep 05, 2011
Jacob rated it: 2 of 5 stars
Lillback rescues Washington from the charge of Deism, but not Masonry.

Thesis: George Washington was neither a Deist nor a modern Fundamentalist Evangelical. Rather, he was an orthodox Latitudinarian within the Anglican church. This means that while he did not have the outward, expressive, emotional zeal of 20th century counterparts, he did have a real faith in a Personal Triune God, and sucha faith did inform his public policies and inspire commitments.

Critics object that More...
Sep 02, 2011
Christopher rated it: 4 of 5 stars
This is an important book, which shows that George Washington was not a Deist as some have claimed, but rather an orthodox Anglican with Latitudinarian tendencies.

One of the more persuasive arguments in the book, which the authors probably don't emphasize enough, is that Washington served as a godfather for some eight children and served as a very active lay-leader in his church, both of which required subscription to the Church of England's 39 Articles of Religion. Subscription was More...
Oct 31, 2010
Deborah rated it: 5 of 5 stars
George Washington's Sacred Fire
Every American needs to read George Washington's Sacred Fire by Peter A. Lillback for a valuable understanding on the beginnings of our nation and how truly a historic moment in time this was. Showing the "Providence of God" in the start up of this new country and the man who was chosen to lead us all.

Get in touch with the language of the day, the honor and principles expected and know how George Washington was absolutely the best possi More...
0 comments like (1 person liked it)
Aug 04, 2011
Steve rated it: 5 of 5 stars
This is the most thoroughly researched book I have ever read. 1179 pages is a daunting task, indeed,, although the appendixes, footnotes and references take up 454 pages of small print. this book rewrites the recently rewritten history that has for many years claimed Washington was a Deist. The currently accepted research is looked at critically in great detail. All Deist arguments are refuted by Washington's own words. For a shortened but well researched version, read part I, about 63 pages,the More...
Jul 01, 2010
Karen rated it: 5 of 5 stars
I'm unsure how to review this book. While reading, Washington, the man became very personal to me. I now know why he is called "The Indispensable Man". This book made George Washington, alive to me. So, I say read this book. Introduce yourself to George Washington. Maybe he will speak to you too.

This is my favorite book on Washington because it made reading him easy. It is his words, given structure. The last 1/4 of the book is a glossary of his views on issues that More...
0 comments like (1 person liked it)
Apr 18, 2011
Russ rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Over the years I have read many biographies of George Washington but I guess what sets this book apart from the others is the author’s research into George Washington’s religious views, personal history, and his personal writings. The author leaves no doubt that Washington was not only a god fearing Christian man but the only man worthy to lead a young nation out of the grips of the British Empire. It’s my opinion that this book should surely be a must read for anyone who wants to learn about on More...
Jul 22, 2011
Julie rated it: 4 of 5 stars
I love this book, but I read it in doses, a chapter a week. It is FULL of primary source-based facts. I was taught in high school that he was a deist. Wow, how "history teachers" like to twist the facts. I will not be so gullible in the future. I am half-way through. May take a couple of months to finish up, but I enjoy savoring this one.
Jun 03, 2011
Tweed rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Since the opening decade of the 20th century a concerted effort has been made by historians to distort and rewrite history to make a case that Geo. Washington was not a Christian. They consider him a Deist. This book goes to great length to show that he was raised Christian and relied on Christian teachings, values throughout his life. He required there be Chaplains present with his army throughout the Revolution. The concepts presented in this book are supported by The first presidents own wor More...
Aug 26, 2011
Adam rated it: 4 of 5 stars
The important thing about this book is that it certainly clears the air for those who think they understand separation of church and state but don't. The opportunity for our nation's leaders to pray in public, go to church, or make references to the providence and God is a completely different thing from persecuting people because of what they believe. Washington regularly deferred to the providence of God. Leading his soldiers in prayer, both of hope and thanks. Whether or not Washington we More...
Jan 23, 2011
SurRealistic rated it: 5 of 5 stars
How can we understand our Present, if we don't know our Past? Mr. Lillback captured just that and more - he captured the essence of a great man during perilous times. We must continue to draw from this source of strength: Faith.
Jun 17, 2010
Sharon Eve rated it: 4 of 5 stars
As a high school history teacher, I considered this an excellent work. It brought the characters to life and I recommend it to anyone interested in the history of the U.S. and the personalities that gave birth to our country.
Jul 26, 2010
Noel rated it: 5 of 5 stars
This is amazing. Well written and so inspiring. You can open it anywhere and just read for a while. Everyone should own this book and keep it on your coffee table so you have quick access.
Jul 30, 2011
Marcus added it
This comprehensive and well-documented history clearly demonstrates that George Washington was not a Deist but held orthodox Christian views throughout his life.
Jul 21, 2010
sml rated it: 5 of 5 stars
This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here
Sep 21, 2010
Mark rated it: 5 of 5 stars
this is a fantastic book and one every American should have on their coffee table.
Dec 14, 2011
Matthew rated it: 3 of 5 stars
i never really doubted whether Washington was a Christian or a Deist. Lillaback definately has done his research and proves over and over that Washington was for sure a Christian. very well researched. deep and theological at points at times

not quite what i was suspecting and I am thankful to have completed it.
Dec 21, 2010
Aaron rated it: 5 of 5 stars
Excellently presented, providing a thorough look into a man for the ages. Washington's personal correspondence to close family and friends unveil the true character of the American icon and remove all doubt and speculation of the magnitude of this man. Understanding the drive and diligence behind those who helped to create, shape, and form the foundation of our nation helps me to strive to continue to contribute to their dream and progress the ideals and principles they sought to instill in this More...
Aug 26, 2010
Linda rated it: 3 of 5 stars


This book needed an editor. Lillback puts everything he ever
learned about George in one book with the emphasis on his religious
and spiritual character. I did enjoy reading about he added a religious
element to our first army. he created the post of Chaplain to the
first army, seeing the importance of prayer and comfort during and
after battle. I did not finish the book but I will refer to it as GW
is a new subject of interest for me. His E More...
Nov 13, 2010
Christina rated it: 5 of 5 stars
very good book!
Feb 15, 2011
Kirstie rated it: 4 of 5 stars
The authors did a great job of proving that Washington wasn't a Deist. They provide numerous textual support from Washington's own writing and from other documents of the time.

My only critique of the book is that it's long and becomes very repetitive after awhile. The book is great if you want to do some quick research, but it's not the best book for pleasure reading, in my mind. I had a hard time getting into it.
Nov 15, 2011
Tim rated it: 5 of 5 stars
This is an excellent book for those who want to know more about our first President's faith. It is very long but worth the read. The author does a great job siting first source documents. I am very happy to report that without a doubt President George Washington was a believer in our Lord Jesus Christ! The book has ten appendixes and the endnotes start on page 959 and go through 1155. The author, Peter A. Lillback, did much research for this fantastic book! I highly recommend it.
Sep 15, 2010
Cristelle rated it: 5 of 5 stars
This was an amazing book. I've been on a history kick lately and have loved learning about some of our founding fathers. George Washington was truly a man of character and honor. I learned so much about him and his quiet, humble nature. This is a long book, but well worth the read.
Jul 02, 2008
Brad rated it: 2 of 5 stars
I am very anxious to read this book, especially since it was written by a hard-core evangelical who believes that Washington was a devout Christian in every sense of the word. I don't buy the argument, so this should be a fun book to dissect.
Jan 31, 2011
Jennifer added it
This is a defense of some current ideas about George Washington not being a Christian. Fascinating and uplifting read. The last 1/3 of the book is only footnotes and other appendicies.
Sep 14, 2011
Stephanie rated it: 4 of 5 stars
BIG BOOK. Still working on getting through it. After reading it, you will never wonder what Washington's feelings toward religion were.
Aug 28, 2008
Pstorm rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Thoroughly researched, this book shows that Washington was a devout Christian, not the Deist that many have claimed.
Sep 04, 2010
Ane marked it as to-read
I didn't realize this was a 1,000 page book. I hope I get to give it the time it deserves.
Apr 09, 2010
Ethan rated it: 4 of 5 stars
After reading this book you will never again be able to accept that George Washington was a deist.
0 comments like (2 people liked it)
Nov 23, 2011
Jesse rated it: 5 of 5 stars
the truth on Washington's faith
Feb 12, 2012
Stephen marked it as to-read