perfect law of liberty, The
Elias Smith and the providential history of America
Michael G. Kenny
328 pages | ~9 hrs
perfect law of liberty, The
Elias Smith and the providential history of America
By Michael G. Kenny
In the turbulent early decades of American independence, one man dared to merge spiritual awakening with revolutionary democratic ideals. This compelling biography explores the remarkable life of Elias Smith, a New England preacher whose radical vision challenged both religious establishments and social hierarchies of his era.
Michael G. Kenny reveals how Smith transformed from a conventional Baptist minister into a pioneering voice for spiritual and political equality. Breaking away from traditional church authority in the 1790s, Smith developed what he called the "perfect law of liberty," a powerful synthesis that connected evangelical Protestant faith with Jeffersonian democratic principles. His message resonated deeply with ordinary Americans seeking both spiritual fulfillment and social justice.
Through meticulous research, Kenny traces Smith's evolution as he founded the influential newspaper The Herald of Gospel Liberty, which reached readers across the nation. Smith's teachings emphasized universal human equality, rejected social deference, and proclaimed individual spiritual autonomy. He boldly declared that America's destiny was to become a true democracy where faith and freedom would flourish together.
This fascinating portrait illuminates how one determined individual helped reshape both American religion and democratic thought. For readers interested in the intersection of spirituality and social transformation, Smith's story offers timeless insights into the power of combining personal faith with the pursuit of justice and equality for all people.
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Restoration movement (Christianity)
- ✓ Explore Universalist church
- ✓ Explore Religious aspects
- ✓ Explore Herbalists
- ✓ Explore Clergy
- ✓ Explore Christianity
- ✓ Explore Christian Connection
- ✓ Explore History
Topics
Details
- Published
- 1994
- Publisher
- Smithsonian Institution Press
- ISBN-10
- 1560983213
- Pages
- 328
- Language
- EN
