Rediscover the Fire That Forged a Nation. Join the Fight to Reclaim It.

Puritan Storm Rising is more than a history; it is a call to arms. This book unearths the explosive legacy of the Puritans — their covenantal theology, doctrines of grace, and vision for a Christian civilization. From the Reformation to the Great Awakenings, their convictions shaped the West and birthed America.

Now, in an age of spiritual decay and tyranny, their wisdom is our most vital weapon. This book equips you to:

• Resist the collapse of faith and freedom.
• Revive the transformative power of the Gospel in every sphere of life.
• Rebuild a culture under the Lordship of Christ.

The storm that once rose against tyranny is gathering again. Will you stand in the breach?

The Time for Revival and Reformation is Now!

Get the book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FYDN7BW9

Teaching and Video Seminar

Recommended Approach

The most effective method for learning this material is to systematically work through each of the 12 lessons, preferably in a small group setting. While the material is flexible, the following structure is recommended for optimal teaching and learning.

Intended Audience & Material

• This book is designed as supplemental material for high school American and British Literature classes.
• Each student in the study group should have their own copy of the book.
• The close-reading questions and essay prompts are aligned with national standards for high school English and History classes and are designed to help students synthesize and internalize the text.

Lesson Structure & Workflow

This guideline outlines a cyclical process for each lesson session.

1. Review & Discuss Homework (20-30 minutes)

• At the beginning of each meeting, the group leader will briefly review the assigned reading and homework.
• The leader will ask for volunteers to share their answers to the discussion questions.
• This review should move quickly, spending no more than a minute or two per question.
• After the review, the leader will open the floor for any further questions or comments for general discussion.

2. Engage with Video Seminar

• The group may watch all or part of the videos in the Video Seminar section. All videos are available for online streaming via the provided links.
• * Note-Taking:* Students should take notes during the video as if they were in a live seminar, jotting down key points and any questions that arise.
• Post-Viewing Discussion:
  • The group leader should first ask if there are any questions about the video’s content.
  • The leader will attempt to answer these questions and promote discussion and debate among the group members.
  • To transition to the next assignment, the leader should preview the questions for the next reading section.

3. Assign Homework for the Next Lesson

• Reading:* On average, each lesson consists of approximately 40 pages of reading.
• Written Work: For the next meeting, each student should complete the following:
  • Write short answers to the close-reading questions, using textual evidence to support their responses.
  • Compose a response to the assigned essay prompt.

The goal of this series is not to give patent answers to every question, but to give you the principles by which to reason and answer these questions for yourself. Therefore, there are no “answers in the back of the book.” It is hoped that you will draw your own conclusions as “wise Bereans‚” and search the Scriptures to find out whether these things are so (Acts 17:11). As you do this, you should be impressed by an important fact. “There is another king, one Jesus‚” (Acts ) who is enthroned in heaven as the ruler of the nations. Jesus Christ has been given the name King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16). While some would limit the rule of Christ over the nations to some future dispensation, the Bible clearly teaches that He rules today and that His Law has a broad application in our culture and society.

And we, His people, have the responsibility to take the role of stewards of His authority and seek to rule wisely as His ambassadors and representatives on earth. May we commit ourselves, by the grace of God to pray for and diligently work toward the restoration of the Crown Rights of Jesus Christ. As we do this, we will begin to see once again the reformation of all aspects of our culture according to the infallible Word of God, by the power of the Holy Spirit, and to the glory of the Triune God.

Teaching and Learning Questions

Ten close reading questions for each section are aligned with national standards for English/Language Arts, American History and World History. Page numbers are included for each reading assignment.

As part of each lesson, students will write at least three paragraphs according to the following guidelines:

1. Use evidence from the text to support your analysis.
2. Include an introduction with a clear thesis statement, body paragraphs addressing each part of the prompt, and a conclusion that ties your ideas together.
3. Ensure your essay demonstrates critical thinking and connects historical events to broader cultural and philosophical trends.

Lesson 1: Models for Reformation 1-3 (pages 9-43)

Close Reading Questions:

1. How does the concept of the “New Jerusalem‚” connect to the Puritan vision for New England? How does this reflect their worldview and goals for society?
2. Analyze the role of the First and Second Great Awakenings in shaping the cultural and spiritual foundation of Massachusetts. How did these movements influence the region’s identity?
3. What is the significance of the Salutation Tavern in Boston’s revolutionary history, and how does the author link it to Puritan covenant theology?
4. Examine the role of open-air preaching during the Reformation as described by Peter Hammond. How did this method contribute to the spread of Reformation ideas?
5. Discuss the influence of John Calvin’s teachings on the development of constitutional republics and free-market economics. How did his theological principles shape political and economic systems?
6. How was America’s founding influenced by the Reformation? What specific examples are provided to support this claim?
7. Analyze the role of John Knox in shaping the concept of covenantal government. How did his ideas challenge the “Divine Right of Kings‚”?
8. What were the “covenantal lawsuits‚” of the Church of Scotland, and how did they reflect the Puritan belief in resisting unjust rulers?
9. Evaluate Peter Hammond’s critique of the historical inaccuracies in the film Elizabeth. How does he argue that the film misrepresents the role of faith and the Reformation in shaping history?
10. What was Cromwell’s role in propagating the Gospel among North American Indians. How does this reflect the Puritan commitment to spreading their faith?

Essay Prompt:

Analyze the profound influence of Puritan and Reformation ideals on the founding of America and its cultural, political, and spiritual identity. Write a three-paragraph essay analyzing how the Puritan worldview shaped the development of American society, focusing on the concepts of covenantal government, the Protestant work ethic, and the role of faith in public life.

Guidelines:

1. Introduction: Provide a brief overview of the Puritan worldview and its connection to the founding of America. Include a clear thesis statement that outlines the three main points you will discuss.
2. Body Paragraph: Discuss each of the three points (covenantal government, Protestant work ethic, and faith in public life) with evidence from the document. Include specific references to the text to support your analysis.
3. Conclusion: Summarize your main points and explain the lasting impact of Puritan and Reformation ideals on American society today.

Lesson 2: Models for Reformation 4-6 (pages 44-83)

Close Reading Questions:

1. Puritan America (1620-1776): How did George Herbert and John Milton perceive the Puritan emigration to America, and what significance did they attribute to it in shaping Christian civilization?
2. The Puritan View of Civil Life and Culture: How did the Puritans’ belief in covenantalism influence their approach to civil government and societal organization?
3. Education and Literacy in Puritan New England: What role did education and literacy play in the Puritan colonies, and how did institutions like Harvard College reflect their values?
4. The Pilgrim-Puritan Legacy: Compare and contrast the Pilgrims and Puritans in terms of their goals, governance, and cultural contributions. How did their shared foundations shape American identity?
5. William Bradford and the Plymouth Colony: How did William Bradford’s leadership and the concept of covenantalism contribute to the survival and success of the Plymouth Colony?
6. John Winthrop and the Massachusetts Bay Colony: What was John Winthrop’s vision for the Massachusetts Bay Colony as a “city upon a hill,‚” and how did he believe social hierarchy and communal love would contribute to its success?
7. The Salem Witch Trials: How does the text challenge popular misconceptions about the Salem Witch Trials, and what lessons does it suggest about the dangers of abandoning biblical law?
8. Spiritual Decline and Revival: What factors contributed to the spiritual decline of Puritan New England, and how did acts of repentance pave the way for the First Great Awakening?
9. The Mayflower Compact and Early Colonial Governance: How did the Mayflower Compact and subsequent colonial documents reflect the Puritan belief in self-governance under God’s law?
10. The New England Confederation: What was the significance of the New England Confederation, and how did it reflect the Puritan commitment to unity and mutual defense?

Essay Prompt:

The Puritans and Pilgrims played a foundational role in shaping the political, cultural, and religious identity of early America. Using evidence from the text, write a three-paragraph essay analyzing how their beliefs in covenantalism, education, and communal responsibility influenced the development of American society.

Guidelines:

1. Introduction: Provide a brief overview of the Puritan and Pilgrim legacy, highlighting their shared values and distinct approaches to governance and society. Include a clear thesis statement that outlines the main points of your essay.
2. Body Paragraph: Focus on one key aspect of their influence (e.g., covenantalism, education, or communal responsibility). Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis.
3. Conclusion: Summarize your main points and explain how the Puritan and Pilgrim legacy continues to impact American values and institutions today.

Lesson 3: Models for Reformation 7-9 (pages 84-120)

Close Reading Questions:

1. Culture and Civilization: How does the text differentiate between “culture‚” and “civilization‚”? Provide examples from the text to support your answer.
2. Politics and Governance: What is the significance of the Treaty of Westphalia in shaping modern political structures, according to the text?
3. Puritan Influence: How did the Puritans’ understanding of culture and politics differ from the modern concept of the nation-state?
4. Christian Unity: How did the Founding Fathers view the role of Christian morality in sustaining the American republic? Use specific quotes to support your answer.
5. Revival and Awakening: What social conditions does the text suggest are necessary for a spiritual awakening in America? How does the author connect these conditions to historical examples?
6. Anne Bradstreet’s Poetry: How does Anne Bradstreet’s poetry challenge stereotypes about Puritan attitudes toward women and family life? Use examples from her poem “To My Dear and Loving Husband.‚”
7. Phillis Wheatley’s Legacy: How did Phillis Wheatley’s poetry contribute to the abolitionist movement and challenge societal norms of her time?
8. Jonathan Edwards’ Philosophy: How did Jonathan Edwards view the relationship between spiritual revival and historical progress? How does this perspective reflect his postmillennial beliefs?
9. George Whitefield’s Impact: How did George Whitefield’s preaching influence the colonies’ spiritual and political unity, and how did his relationship with Benjamin Franklin reflect the intersection of faith and culture?
10. Puritan Legacy: How does the author argue that the Puritan foundation can serve as a model for reformation in modern America? What steps does the author suggest for reclaiming culture and politics?

Essay Prompt:

The text explores the profound impact of the Puritans on American culture, politics, and religion, emphasizing their legacy in shaping the nation’s identity. Write a three-paragraph essay analyzing how the Puritans influenced American society, focusing on their contributions to culture, politics, and religion. Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis.

Guidelines:

1. Introduction: Provide a brief overview of the Puritans’ role in early American history and their significance in shaping the nation’s identity. Include a clear thesis statement that outlines the three areas of influence you will discuss: culture, politics, and religion.
2. Body paragraphs: Discuss each area of influence in detail, using evidence from the text. For culture, consider the literary contributions of figures like Anne Bradstreet and Phillis Wheatley. For politics, analyze the Puritans’ role in the development of the village-state model and their views on governance. For religion, explore the Great Awakening and the role of figures like Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield in shaping American spirituality.
3. Conclusion: Summarize the key points of your analysis and reflect on the lasting legacy of the Puritans in modern American society. Consider the author’s argument about the need for a Neo-Puritan social theory and its relevance today.

Lesson 4: Models for Reformation 10-11 (pages 121-144)

Close Reading Questions:

1. How did the First Great Awakening influence the principles of liberty and human rights in the American colonies, as described in the text?
2. Why is Samuel Adams referred to as the “Father of the American Revolution,‚” and how did his Puritan beliefs shape his political actions?
3. Analyze the role of the “Black Regiment‚” in the American Revolution. How did their sermons and actions contribute to the fight against British tyranny?
4. How did John Knox and Samuel Rutherford’s ideas on civil resistance influence the American Revolution? Provide specific examples from the text.
5. What is the relationship between Puritan theology and the Declaration of Independence?
6. How did Patrick Henry’s upbringing during the Great Awakening shape his oratory skills and political fearlessness?
7. Discuss the role of the Great Awakening in shaping the abolitionist movement, particularly through the influence of John Wesley and William Wilberforce.
8. How did Wilberforce’s approach to abolitionism integrate cultural, political, and religious strategies? Provide examples from the text.
9. Compare and contrast the views of John Wesley and George Whitefield on slavery. How did their perspectives reflect broader Puritan views on societal sin?
10. What does the text suggest about the modern interpretation of Jefferson’s “wall of separation‚” between church and state? How does this differ from its original Puritan roots?

Essay Prompt:

Using evidence from the text, write a three-paragraph essay analyzing the impact of Puritan theology on the American Revolution and the abolitionist movement.

Guidelines:

1. Introduction: Provide a brief overview of Puritan theology and its influence on American culture and politics. Include a clear thesis statement that outlines the connection between Puritan beliefs and the two historical movements.
2. Body Paragraph: Discuss how Puritan principles shaped the American Revolution, focusing on key figures like Samuel Adams and Patrick Henry, as well as the role of the “Black Regiment.‚” Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis.
3. Conclusion: Explain how Puritan theology influenced the abolitionist movement, particularly through the work of John Wesley and William Wilberforce. Reflect on how these historical examples demonstrate the intersection of faith and societal reform.

Lesson 5: Models for Reformation 12-16 (pages 145-180)

Close Reading Questions:

1. How did John Quincy Adams connect the principles of civil government with Christianity during the American Revolution? Provide evidence from the text.
2. What were John Quincy Adams’ views on Unitarianism, and how did his theological beliefs evolve over time?
3. How did the Second Great Awakening influence social reforms in 19th-century America? Provide specific examples from the text.
4. What role did the Haystack Revival play in the development of the American Foreign Mission movement?
5. How did Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield contribute to the First Great Awakening, and what were the social and political impacts of their efforts?
6. How did Timothy Dwight’s leadership at Yale contribute to the revival of Christian faith during the Second Great Awakening?
7. Compare the missionary approaches of John Eliot and Hudson Taylor. How did their methods reflect their commitment to cultural engagement?
8. What factors contributed to the decline of Neo-Puritan influence in the 19th century?
9. How did Martin Niem√∂ller’s actions and beliefs reflect the spirit of the Reformation during Nazi Germany?
10. How does the resurgence of Neo-Puritanism challenge existentialist and postmodern philosophies? Use examples from the text to support your answer.

Essay Prompt:

Analyze the impact of Puritan values on American culture and politics from the colonial era to the 21st century.

Guidelines:

1. How did Puritan ideals influence the founding principles of America, as seen in the First and Second Great Awakenings?
2. How have literary works, such as those by Nathaniel Hawthorne and Arthur Miller, shaped public perceptions of Puritanism?
3. How does the resurgence of Neo-Puritanism in the 21st century reflect a response to modern philosophical movements like existentialism and postmodernism?

Lesson 6: The United States of America 2.0 – The Great Reset (pages 181-220)

Close Reading Questions:

1. America Founded on a Creed

How does G.K. Chesterton describe the Declaration of Independence as both practical and theoretical politics? What does he mean by calling it “great literature‚”?

How did Christian political philosophy influence the founding of the United States, particularly in relation to the Protestant Reformation and the rejection of the “Divine Right of Kings‚”?

2. Rebellion to Tyrants is Obedience to God

Analyze Benjamin Franklin’s proposed design for the Great Seal of the United States. How does the imagery reflect the religious and political values of the Founding Fathers?

3. The Christian Idea of Man and Government

What are the two essential principles for civil government established by Samuel Rutherford in Lex, Rex? How did these principles influence the American Founding Fathers?

4. The American Experiment

How did the Fundamental Orders of Connecticut and the Massachusetts Body of Liberties contribute to the development of the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights?

5. Resistance to Tyrants

What is the doctrine of the “interposition of the lower magistrate,‚” and how does it relate to the concept of resistance against tyranny?

6. Interposition and Nullification

Compare and contrast the concepts of interposition and nullification. How do these doctrines reflect the Founding Fathers’ views on federal authority and state rights?

7. The History and Theology of Civil Resistance

How did the Puritans and Presbyterians influence the American Revolution through their theology of resistance? Provide specific examples from the text.

8. The Puritan Hope in the 21st Century

What does the text suggest about the role of the Church in societal reformation? How does the author propose the Church should engage with civil government?

9. Two Options: Messianic Statism or National Reformation

What are the two paths the text suggests America can take in the future? How does the author connect these paths to the nation’s Puritan heritage?

Essay Prompt:

The text discusses the influence of Puritan thought and Christian political philosophy on the founding of the United States and its relevance to modern society.

Guidelines:

Write a three-paragraph essay addressing the following:

1. Introduction: Summarize the key ways in which Puritan and Christian political philosophy shaped the founding principles of the United States, as described in the text.
2. Body Paragraph: Analyze the concept of resistance to tyranny as presented in the text. How did the Founding Fathers and Puritan leaders justify resistance to unjust rulers? Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on the author’s argument for a “Neo-Puritan Revival‚” in the 21st century. Do you agree or disagree with the idea that America should return to its Puritan roots to address modern societal challenges? Explain your reasoning using evidence from the text and your own understanding of American history

Lesson 7: Recovering our Christian American Logos (pages 221-269)

Close Reading Questions:

1. What does the term “civilizational logos‚” mean, and how does it connect it to American culture?
2. How does the author contrast the “literary canon‚” approach to education before the 1960s with the postmodernist approach? Why is it important to emphasize cultural roots before exploring multicultural perspectives?
3. What role does Joseph of Arimathea play in the legends of British Christianity, and how does the author view these legends in relation to historical evidence? How does the author describe the transformation of pagan Anglo-Saxon kingdoms into Christian societies?
4. How does the dragon motif in Beowulf and other ancient literature reflect the struggle between order and chaos? How does the author connect the dragon-slaying motif to Christian theology and the concept of spiritual warfare?
5. What does the story of Hengest and Horsa reveal about the cultural and political dynamics of post-Roman Britain? How does the author use the legend of Hengest and Horsa to draw parallels to America’s founding?
6. What were the cultural and political factors that contributed to the divide between Celtic and Roman Christianity during Augustine of Canterbury’s mission? How does the author critique Augustine’s approach to uniting the Celtic and Roman Christian traditions?
7. Why was the episode of Alcuin of York and the monks critical of the preservation of pagan poetry in monasteries, and how does the author connect this critique to broader cultural tensions? How does the author interpret the syncretism of pagan symbols within Christian culture?
8. How did Thomas Jefferson incorporate the Anglo-Saxon narrative into his vision for America’s national identity? What “atomization‚” mean, and how does it relate to the reinterpretation of history in Modern times?
9. According to the author, how should Christians view “the meaning of history,‚” and what role does the Great Commission play in this perspective? How does the author contrast secular and Christian views of history?
10. General analysis: How do these historical and literary examples to support their argument for recovering a Christian American logos? What is the significance of the recurring theme of betrayal in the legends and historical narratives discussed in the text?

Essay Prompt:

In a well-organized essay, analyze how the author uses historical and literary examples to argue for the recovery of a Christian American logos. Discuss the role of cultural roots, historical narratives, and religious themes in shaping national identity. Use evidence from the text to support your analysis.

Guidelines:

1. Introduction:

Provide a brief overview of the concept of a Christian American logos as presented in the text.

Include a clear thesis statement that outlines your argument.

2. Body Paragraphs:

Discuss the importance of cultural roots and historical narratives in shaping national identity, using examples from the text.

Analyze how the author connects religious themes, such as the dragon-slaying motif and the role of Christianity, to the idea of a unified national logos.

Evaluate the author’s perspective on the impact of Modernism and “woke‚” ideology on America’s cultural and historical identity.

3. Conclusion:

Summarize your main points and restate your thesis.

Reflect on the relevance of the author’s argument for contemporary American society

Lesson 8: The Norman Invasion to the Modern Era (pages 270-310)

Close Reading Questions:

4. How did the Norman Invasion of 1066 contribute to the linguistic and cultural transformation of England? Provide specific examples from the text.
5. What were the key principles established by the Magna Carta, and how did they reflect the Anglo-Saxon tradition of governance?
6. Compare the Anglo-Saxon Moot system with the Norman feudal system. How did the Norman Conquest alter the governance structure in England?
7. How did the Norman Conquest influence the development of the English language? Provide examples of word pairs that illustrate the linguistic class divide.
8. How did the Arthurian legend evolve from its Celtic origins to its romanticized form in medieval France? What role did the Normans play in this transformation?
9. How does the poem, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight explore the ideals and flaws of medieval chivalry? Use specific examples from the text to support your answer.
10. How does John Bunyan’s personal experience of religious persecution influence the allegorical elements of Pilgrim’s Progress? Provide examples from the text.
11. Analyze John Milton’s portrayal of Satan in Paradise Lost as a complex character. How does this depiction contribute to the themes of rebellion and free will in the poem?
12. How do the tales in the Mabinogion reflect the cultural and historical struggles of the Welsh people during the Anglo-Saxon conquest?
13. What is the importance of understanding historical and cultural heritage in shaping American identity? What connections does the author make between historical figures and the founding of the United States?

Essay Prompt:

In Part 4, Puritan Storm Rising explores the historical, cultural, and literary evolution of Christian and Anglo-Saxon traditions, connecting them to the foundation of American identity. Write a three-paragraph essay analyzing how the text argues for the importance of understanding historical heritage in shaping a Christian American civilization. In your essay, address the following:

1. Summarize the main argument of the text regarding the connection between historical traditions and American identity. Include specific examples from the text to support your summary.
2. Analyze how the text uses historical events, such as the Norman Invasion, the Magna Carta, and the English Civil War, to illustrate the development of governance and liberty. Discuss how these events are tied to the American founding.
3. Evaluate the role of literature and mythology, such as the Mabinogion, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and Pilgrim’s Progress, in preserving and transmitting cultural and spiritual values. How does the text suggest these works contribute to the American Christian logos?

Guidelines:

1. Use evidence from the text to support your analysis.
2. Ensure each paragraph has a clear topic sentence and supporting details.
3. Conclude with a reflection on how understanding historical and literary heritage can inform contemporary American identity.

Lesson 9: The Dragon Slayer Motif (pages 310-322)

Close Reading Questions:

1. How does Peredur’s confrontation with the dragon reflect broader themes of greed and vitality in mythology? Compare this to similar motifs in Beowulf and Sigurd’s Fafnir.
2. How does the symbolism of dragons in Welsh mythology reflect cultural attitudes toward foreign threats? Provide examples from the text.
3. How does the historical narrative of the Celts, Anglo-Saxons, and Puritans connect to the founding of American Christian civilization?
4. How does the concept of “dragon-slaying‚” evolve from pagan mythology to Puritan spiritual warfare? What does this shift reveal about changing cultural values?
5. How does the metaphor of dragons as cultural palimpsests illustrate the transformation of pagan motifs into medieval nationalism and Christian symbolism?
6. How does the Anglo-Saxon concept of wyrd differ from the Christian doctrines of predestination and foreordination? How do the two belief systems attempt to reconcile their differences?
7. How does Beowulf’s understanding of wyrd reflect the tension between pagan and Christian values? Use specific examples from the text.
8. Compare the Roman and Celtic influences on Anglo-Saxon Christianity. How did these competing streams shape the religious identity of England?
9. How did the Anglo-Saxon legacy influence English Protestant reformers during the Reformation? Provide examples of how historical narratives were used to support their arguments.
10. How did Christianity played a role in the transformation of marauding tribes into civilized nations? What evidence is provided to support this claim?

Essay Prompt:

Prompt: Analyze how the concept of “dragon-slaying‚” serves as a metaphor for cultural, spiritual, and political struggles throughout history, as presented in Puritan Storm Rising. In your essay, address the following:

1. How do dragons symbolize societal challenges and threats across different historical periods?
2. How does the concept of wyrd and predestination shape the understanding of fate and free will in Anglo-Saxon and Christian traditions?
3. How do historical narratives of Anglo-Saxon and Puritan struggles contribute to the author’s vision of a unified American Christian civilization?

Guidelines:

1. Begin with an introduction that summarizes the central themes of the text and presents your thesis statement.
2. Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis in each paragraph.
3. Conclude by reflecting on how the historical and cultural motifs discussed in the text are relevant to understanding modern American identity and values.

Lesson 10: Noomakhia – War of the Minds (pages 323-352)

Close Reading Questions:

1. What is the meaning of Noomakhia, as proposed by Aleksandr Dugin, and how does it relate to the concept of civilizational logoi?
2. Compare and contrast the Apollonian and Dionysian logoi as described in the text. How do these logoi represent opposing principles in civilization?
3. How does the Apollonian-Dionysian dichotomy connect to ancient Greek mythology and philosophy? Provide specific examples.
4. How does G.K. Chesterton’s view of Christianity’s role in resolving the Apollonian-Dionysian conflict differ from Aleksandr Dugin’s perspective on the three logoi?
5. According to the text, how does the Cybelian logos manifest in Modernity, and why does Dugin view it as a threat to human civilization?
6. How does the text use historical examples, such as the Punic Wars and the Anglo-Saxon/Celtic conflict, to illustrate the concept of civilizational logoi?
7. What does the text suggest about the relationship between America’s civilizational logos and its historical roots in Puritanism and Anglo-Saxon Christianity?
8. Describe the concept of Revival and Spiritual Awakening and the historical cycles of America’s Great Awakenings.
9. What is the distinction between individuality and individualism, and how have the dual concepts listed in the text shaped American identity?
10. How does the text define the difference between Liberty and Liberalism, and what implications does this have for understanding America’s cultural and political evolution?

Essay Prompt:

Analyze the concept of America’s civilizational logos as described in the text. In your essay, explain how the text connects America’s identity to its Puritan and Anglo-Saxon roots, the role of Revival in shaping American culture, and the challenges posed by Liberalism to the nation’s Christian ethos. Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis.

Guidelines:

1. Introduction: Provide a brief overview of the concept of civilizational logos and its relevance to American identity. Include a clear thesis statement that outlines your main argument.
2. Body Paragraphs:

Discuss the historical roots of America’s civilizational logos, focusing on the influence of Puritanism and Anglo-Saxon Christianity.

Explain the role of Revival and Spiritual Awakening in shaping America’s cultural and spiritual identity over the centuries.

Analyze the text’s critique of Liberalism and its impact on America’s Christian logos.

3. Conclusion: Summarize your main points and reflect on the importance of understanding America’s civilizational logos in the context of its history and future.

Lesson 11: Appendices – (pages 353-395)

Close Reading Questions:

Appendix 1: What is TULIP and the Ordo Salutis?

How does the document explain the origin of the TULIP acrostic, and how does it relate to Calvin’s teachings?

What is the difference between supralapsarianism and infralapsarianism, and how did these views contribute to the Remonstrant controversy?

Appendix 2: The Role of Sola Scriptura

How does the document differentiate between sola Scriptura and solo Scriptura? Why is this distinction significant in Protestant theology?

What role does tradition play in the interpretation of Scripture according to the Protestant view of sola Scriptura?

Appendix 3: On Sola Fide and the Protestant Reformation

How does the document reconcile the apparent contradiction between Paul’s and James’s teachings on justification by faith and works?

What is the difference between justification and sanctification, and why is this distinction important in Protestant theology?

Appendix 4: The Dual Nature of Christ

How does Paul Jehle describe the dual nature of Christ as both the Lion and the Lamb? How does this duality influence pastoral ministry?

What practical implications does the New Covenant have for daily Christian living, according to the text?

Appendix 5: The Biblical and Historical Foundation of Open-Air Preaching

How does Peter Hammond argue that open-air preaching was central to the Reformation? Provide examples of key figures and their contributions.

What role did William Farel play in advancing the Reformation through open-air preaching?

Appendix 6: My Journey from Shallow Zeal to Reformed Fire

How did Peter Hammond’s understanding of the Great Commission change after reading The Puritan Hope? What impact did this have on his ministry?

What does Hammond mean by “orthodoxy on ice,‚” and how does he challenge the Reformed camp to avoid this pitfall?

Essay Prompt:

The document explores key theological concepts and historical events that shaped Protestant Reformation thought, including TULIP, sola Scriptura, sola fide, the dual nature of Christ, and the role of open-air preaching. Write a three-paragraph essay analyzing how these ideas reflect the central themes of Reformation theology and their impact on Christian practice.

Guidelines:

4. Provide a brief overview of the Protestant Reformation and its significance in shaping Christian theology. Introduce the key concepts discussed in the document and their relevance to the Reformation.
5. Choose two concepts (e.g., TULIP, sola Scriptura, sola fide, or open-air preaching) and analyze how they reflect the theological and practical priorities of the Reformation. Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis.
6. Reflect on how the Reformation’s emphasis on Scripture, grace, and faith continues to influence modern Christian thought and practice. Consider the challenges and opportunities presented by these doctrines in contemporary contexts.

Lesson 12: A Brief Word on The Case for Christian Nationalism (pages 396-413)

Close Reading Questions:

1. How does Matthew Henry’s quote at the beginning of the document reflect the central argument for Christian Nationalism?
2. What is the significance of defining terms like “nation‚” and “nationalism‚” in the context of the Christian Nationalism debate?
3. According to Andy Hauter, how did Anglo-Protestant culture shape early America, and why does he argue against ethno-nationalism?
4. What is the relationship between biblical covenant and the foundation of a Christian civilization, as described by Andy Hauter?
5. In Article I, how is the Bible positioned as the ultimate source of truth, and what implications does this have for civil authorities?
6. What does Article IV suggest about the definition of a nation, and how does it address the concept of sovereignty and borders?
7. How does Article VII define the role and duties of civil authorities in relation to justice and the church?
8. What is the relationship between the Ten Commandments and civil laws, as outlined in Article XIV?
9. How does Article XVI justify civil disobedience, and under what circumstances is it considered appropriate?
10. In Article XX, how is the separation of church and state defined, and why is the idea of “neutrality‚” in government rejected?

Essay Prompt:

In a well-organized three-paragraph essay, analyze the central argument of the document regarding Christian Nationalism. In your response:

1. Summarize the document’s definition of Christian Nationalism and its connection to biblical principles.
2. Discuss how the document addresses the relationship between Christianity and civil government, focusing on the role of civil authorities and the application of biblical law. Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis.
3. Evaluate the author Jay Rogers’ stance on Christian Nationalism, considering his rejection of ethno-nationalism and emphasis on covenantal obedience. Do you find this argument for acceptance under these conditions compelling? Why or why not?

Be sure to use evidence from the text to support your claims and provide a clear and concise analysis.