FAITH OF THE FOUNDERS: John Adams Calls the Bible the Best Book
(QUICK READ) — It’s all but impossible to find a more important member of the Founding Generation than John Adams of Massachusetts. He helped Thomas Jefferson write the Declaration of Independence and later served as Ambassador to France.
Adams came from a New England Congregationalist background, and he was extremely well-educated in the classics of antiquity, as well as those of the Reformation and the Renaissance periods. Adams knew the world and he knew the nature of men and government.
It was during his long-running correspondence with Thomas Jefferson after both left public office that Adams offered his assessment of how the Bible of Christianity compared with other works of religion, philosophy and history. His verdict is indicative of the crucial source of his fundamental principles and perspectives:
“I have examined all religions, as well as my narrow sphere, my straightened means, and my busy life, would allow; and the result is that the Bible is the best Book in the world. It contains more philosophy than all the libraries I have seen.” – John Adams, in a letter to Thomas Jefferson, December 25, 1813. Cited by Mark Strand.
Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States of America.
Many of the quotes reprinted in HillFaith’s “The Faith of The Founders” weekly series of posts are compiled from Benjamin F. Morris’ classic work, “The Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States.” Morris, an historian and pastor, published the first edition more than a century ago.
Quotations are also compiled from Mark Strand, author of the Daily Inspirations email he shares on request here and that HillFaith highly recommends to all congressional aides, be they working on Capitol Hill or in a state or district office back home.
Mark Strand was for 16 years President of the Congressional Institute, and he is a former fellow of the Harvard Institute of Politics. He was also a 24-year veteran congressional staffer, including four years as Chief of Staff to Sen. James Talent (R-Missouri).