George Washington's Sacred Fire

by Peter A. Lillback

496 pages, Hardcover

Published July 1, 2026

About the author

Peter A. Lillback is an American theologian who serves as President and Professor of Historical Theology and Church History at Westminster Theological Seminary in Pennsylvania. He is also President of the Providence Forum and a senior editor at Unio cum Christo. Ordained in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, he holds credentials as a teaching elder in the Presbyterian Church in America. Lillback earned degrees from Cedarville University, Dallas Theological Seminary, and Westminster Theological Seminary. He is the author of George Washington’s Sacred Fire.

Reviews

[Jan · Rating 4 out of 5]

July 13, 2026 * 4 - 4.5 stars

[Luminous Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This abridged edition of Peter A. Lillback's scholarly work delves into the life and faith of George Washington. He explores the values and beliefs that not only shaped Washington as a person but also significantly influenced the character of our nation’s very first president. Lillback lets Washington speak in his own words through his letters, manuscripts, and journals, offering a glimpse of the role Christianity played in both his private and public life.

This book really is the perfect patriotic read for Independence Day, but also any day of the year! You will get to know the real George Washington, be encouraged and inspired in your faith, and walk away with a better understanding of this founding father!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My review reflects my honest opinion.

[Geoffrey Tidd]

Was George Washington a deist? No, says Dr. Lillback, he was an orthodox, Trinity-affirming Anglican. Evidencing his findings in primary sources, Dr. Lillback's work examines Washington's writings, upbringing, and first-person accounts, showing the deep and immense faith of the First President of the United States of America.