Friends, in the latest episode of the Word on Fire Show, I sat down with Matthew Petrusek to reflect on the founding of our nation. We explored the true meaning of freedom and equality, the indispensable role of God in the Declaration of Independence, and how we, as a people, can move forward with confidence and hope amid our country’s challenges.

00:00 | Introduction
01:28 | Consecration of America to the Sacred Heart
02:50 | Rededicate 250 in Washington, DC
04:01 | Is this a Christian nation?
07:10 | How did the founding fathers view God?
08:51 | Mere Christianity or Protestant theology?
12:30 | The founding documents and God
14:38 | The Declaration of Independence: A declaration of dependence on God
16:07 | Connecting freedom with human dignity
22:33 | Relating equality with freedom
24:21 | Can patriotism and piety agree?
27:04 | Responding to the postliberal critique of the American experiment
34:01 | The importance of practicing religion in the public square
35:28 | Listener question: Is praying for politicians effective?
37:49 | Join the Word on Fire Institute