The Theft of America’s Soul: Blowing the Lid Off the Lies That Are Destroying Our Country

by Phil Robertson

It's time to take back what the devil has stolen and bring God back into our culture.

Phil Robertson, patriarch of A&E's Duck Dynasty and one of the most recognized voices of conservative Christianity in America, believes that little by little, generation by generation, America has allowed the lines of morality, decency, and virtue to be erased. Our values have disappeared as we began to believe lies that have only sown discord and division. But, most importantly, Phil also believes that things can change.

Written with captivating storytelling and unflinching honesty, The Theft of America's Soul shows us how to make America a God-honoring nation once more by dropping the ten central lies that rule our day and replacing them with timeless, biblical truths,

God's people represent his voice in the worldTrue unity comes from a God-centered cultureGod's standard for all time is the standard of virtueThe Theft of America's Soul is a prophetic wake-up call for anyone who wants to see our nation thrive, challenging us to exchange lies for truths that will bring peace of mind, harmony, and prosperity back to our country--an invitation to experience the life-giving, peace-filling, wholly-transforming love of God.

Praise for The Theft of America's

"The moral clarity in this book is so powerful and so refreshing I wish I could give it to everyone I know. Incidentally, the only way something could be this full of truth and wisdom is if its author is a prophet. That he is. Hear him."

--Eric Metaxas, author of Bonhoeffer

"In The Theft of America's Soul, the Duck Commander has set his sights on something higher, taking aim at the ten lies that have led our culture astray and put our faith, our families, and our freedom at risk. I am grateful for the direct, nonpolitically correct way my friend Phil Robertson lays out the truth. My prayer is that this book finds its way into the hands and hearts of many Americans."

--Tony Perkins, president of Family Research Council and president of Council for National Policy

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Biography, Politics, Inspirational, Religion, Audiobook

219 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 5, 2019

About the author

Phil Alexander Robertson was an American professional hunter, businessman (Duck Commander company), and reality television star on the popular television series Duck Dynasty. He was also featured on the television show Duck Commander, a hunting program on the Outdoor Channel. He served as patriarch of the Duck Dynasty Robertson family.
He attended Louisiana Tech University, where he played football. He received a master's degree in education and spent several years teaching prior to founding Duck Commander, a hunting equipment company.
Robertson was the subject of controversy after a 2013 interview he did with GQ magazine, where he said that homosexual behavior was sinful. As a result, A&E suspended him from Duck Dynasty. Facing a strong backlash from his supporters, A&E lifted the suspension after nine days.
In September 2023, a biographical film on the early life of Robertson, The Blind, was released in theaters.

Reviews

[Gator · Rating 3 out of 5]

The theft of America’s soul by Phil Robertson is a legit look at America and the people who live within her boarders. He pulls no punches I’ll say that much, he don’t sugar coat nothing, just tells it how it is without any reinterpretation. This book was excellent, I’ve recommended it to my wife and she’s already digging it and so I’ll also recommend it to you all as well, it’s well worth the time and energy. It’s scripture heavy at times so for those of you non believers out there not interested in reading 10% of the Bible (that’s a lot by the way, and also an exaggeration) there’s seriously a good amount of scripture. The book is based and I do suggest you discard the image that the MSM has tried to create of Phil, rather I would pick up this book and you’ll find out all you need to know about this fella and the fact that he don’t need forgiveness from no man and he don’t pull no punches. I’ve never watched Duck Dynasty nor do I have any desire since I have a healthy disdain for television; not his show , I’ve never seen it. From what I gather from his book, I like this man, his philosophy and specifically his grit and determination. It’s definitely worth being read.

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I highly recommend it to everyone! Phil Robertson is a straight shooter and he doesn't hold back. If you want the cold hard truth, then definitely read this book! America needs God more than ever!

[Bernard · Rating 4 out of 5]

i'm making a point to read things that stretch my brain in 2019 and help me see other perspectives in this bizarre mess of a world we're living in right now. this book cropped up on the 'what's new' library shelf and since i was familiar with the robertson family from television, i thought it would be an eye-opening read.

the author has a strong, very well-versed, articulately written view of how things could be better. i see his point, even if i don't necessarily agree with everything he says. he is very well educated and writes very persuasive arguments for why he feels the way he does. he doesn't hold back his own early troubles and always stays true to his message. i admire people who are strong and focused enough to share their views openly, and i'm honestly very glad i read this book. it gave me things to think about.

this is a recommended read.

[Curtis Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, What a wake up. Great book on the current state of America and what America needs to do to get back on track. May God Bless the reader.

[Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bold, accurate and simple

Brother Phil has written how to for Christians. He sees what I see and that is the changing of a America. Jesus spoke about the end of days. We must get real with evangelism and prepare those we love for the up and coming battle. Is it too late? I pray not!

[Dave · Rating 3 out of 5]

Phil Robertson is a modern day television celebrity phenomenon, although many of us have yet to sample his hit show. Theft of America's Soul is Robertson's treatise on how our modern society has lost its way, morally and ethically. Profoundly influenced by Robertson's reading of the Bible and its commandments, this book offers his views on a multitude of issues which divide our country. He pulls no punches and tells it as he sees it. Agree or disagree with him, it's always a fascinating ride. Nevertheless, after a while, you get where he's coming from and you don't need to hear more.

[Jenny Breuer · Rating 5 out of 5]

God’s not dead, Jesus died for our sins, we can be forgiven, and we all need Jesus. Make America Christian again would be a good slogan for this book. Phil speaks the truths of the Bible, we all need Jesus and I hope by reading this book more people can find Him.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! I love how open he was about his past. People who read this should realize he is a conservative Christian who stands up for his beliefs and is completely devoted to them. Loved it! It gave me warm feelings in my heart. I stand by him and this book.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I do have to say that prior to reading this book, I am not familiar with the author or the A&E show Dusk Dynasty at all. I knew that he was a part of it but it was the title of this book that caught my attention. This book is broken down into 10 chapters, which include some very common lies that are rampant in our society. These include; God is Dead, There is no Devil, Truth is Relative, God Did Not Create Life, Sex if for Self-Gratification, Virtue is Outdated, Laws Can Be Ignored or Changed If They Are Inconvenient, Unity is Not Possible, Church Participation and Day-to-Day Life Should Be Kept Separate and Christians Should Shut Their Traps. Along with the lies in each chapter, the author presents the truth, such as in the first chapter, God is Dead, the truth is "The God of the Bible is not dead and He never will be."

These are all topics that I can easily see effecting our current society and it was the first book I read that have addressed so many of them at once. The chapters are a combination of personal stories from the author, as well as scripture that backs up the "truth" in each chapter. Although the author's personal stories were not my favorite part of each chapter, I do applaud him for including such personal stories in this book. And I also am happy to see celebrities speaking out for Christianity, when the majority do not. This is certainly a relevant book in our country today and I think anyone who reads it will be able to easily make a connection between what we see everyday in the news and social media, with what the author is addressing in each chapter.

Thank you to the publisher, Thomas Nelson, for sending me a review copy of this book.

[Cindy aka "The Book Fairy" · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another tremendous book from Phil! I admire his no back doors, upfront approach as he describes what it's like there in the USA ( same as here in Canada too) The conversations and encounters he has had with umpteen people has helped changed countless lives who have been broken and messed up, as he shared the gospel message of salvation through Jesus with them. He certainly had his own life changing transformation when he became a Christian!. The Bible verses and encouragement were so helpful++. He doesn't miss any opportunity to help someone whether physically or to tell them about the Lord if they are interested:) Another favourite for me.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simple and truthfully spoken on why America is corrupt and lost! I enjoyed the straightforward, no sugar coated, frankness how we came to where we are today. Also, simple solutions to get back! Great book to share.

[kathy blank · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truth

Phil Robertson is a changed man because of the Truth of Jesus. This inspiring story includes many stories of the Power of God's Love.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wise and Timely

This is the third book I’ve read by the Duck Commander and it was full of his typical common sense, humor, and love of God. Great book!

[Brice Karickhoff · Rating 4 out of 5]

Y’all ain’t gonna believe this, but I didn’t realize this was the Duck Dynasty guy until 1/3 of the way through. Needless to say, this book was not about duck dynasty, but rather it was about 10 lies that our country is believing.

The lies Robertson discusses are generally modern trends that defy either Christianity (God is dead, the devil isn’t real, etc) or general enlightenment thinking (truth is subjective, laws can be changed if they’re inconvenient, etc). Generally speaking, I really enjoyed Robertson’s discussion of these 10
lies and their opposing truths, and the majority of the time I was in total agreement. Robertson’s cultural background definitely influences his religion a little and his politics a lot, but that is basically the case for everyone - he’s just more forward about it. So at first glance, parts of this book felt like a personal rant, but in reality, almost any book is that way. Other authors just try harder to hide their personal rant behind the veil of unbiased objectivism.

This book is a great read if you want to hear the opinion of tens of millions of Americans laid out by one man who represents them pretty well. It’s readable and clear. It is not an argumentative or apologetic book, so it’s not meant to convince, but I do think it lays out a river rat’s worldview more eloquently than you might expect a river rat to do it.

Last thing I’ll say: I respect Robertson a lot more after reading this book. He takes his faith way more seriously than I imagined, his fame appears to be almost irrelevant to him, he is very vulnerable about his flaws, and his political allegiances are neither thoughtless or without nuance (he’s quite critical of trumps character and divisiveness). SO, I’m a much bigger fan of this TV celebrity Deep South token than I thought I’d be.

[Ellen Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent read based on God's Word.
Phil doesn't come from a squeaky clean
background and knows the true power
in the saving grace of Jesus.

We'd all be wise to heed his warning as
to what is happening in the hearts of
Americans at this time. Only God...

[sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring

Phil's quiet, confident presentation is so refreshing. More than his words his life is his true testimony for Christ. A very surprising and inspiring book. So glad I took a chance and read it!

[Tony Rinella · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/ To begin, I AM THE LAST PERSON WHO THOUGHT I WOULD GIVE THIS BOOK A 5!

I initially approached the book due to its intriguing title and compelling Goodreads rating (4.59 today). Any rating above 4.3 or so makes me raise an eyebrow unless it has a celebrity author or involves charismatic witches or werewolves. A bit more research proved the author is the star of Duck Dynasty, and my hopes for enlightenment plummeted. I prefer reading over TV every day of the week, so I didn’t know anything about the show one way or another. However, I anticipated conservative manifesto. This is what I found…

Phil is a remarkably intelligent and thoughtful writer despite his frequent self-deprecation. He begins the book with a “text-byte” of Nietzsche’s proclamation that “God is dead” based mostly on the 1965/1966 Time Magazine articles. Denunciation of this “premise” is the centerpiece of the book. I believe Phil missed Nietzsche’s intent to summarize the effects of the “Age of Enlightenment” (the political reformation that motivated the US Forefathers in the mid- to late 1700s) and Industrial Revolution through which he directly lived. During this time, God as the single solution to all scientific and spiritual concepts was challenged, and the science that empowers most of our lives emerged. Ironically, Nietzsche had “a madman” exclaim the phrase as he, and later Phil, grappled with the same issues. More on this later…

Robertson continues with a criticism of “isms” (relativism, agnosticism, atheism, etc.) that he feels undermine the Word of God. He goes on to discuss his galavanting days as a “river rat”: always partying, lying, stealing, womanizing, etc. After his wife left, he found God, was baptized, and did his best to stay on God’s path. He stumbled a few times, but eventually passed the Word to anyone who would listen. To me, the early chapters sounded like a 12-step AA program where absolutism is the only way to combat one’s destructive inertia. In the early days, that was probably true for him. I am always concerned when people blame an extrinsic force (the devil) for their own bad decisions. That seems to undermine accountability. Phil portrays a passive God and very active devil. He describes his bad-influence friends as the “Devil’s sons” while they probably said the same about him. Over time, Phil transformed into a die-hard Christian and maintained a wonderfully open-minded perspective (to race, socioeconomic status, and gender). He transformed the lives of thousands of people who wanted another path but didn’t know a better way. In this way, he should be celebrated.

To me, his major limit is a strict and literal reading of scripture. He takes all readings as absolute truth even when I doubt that is the various authors’ intent. For instance, he criticizes “relativism” (especially as it relates to “truth”) when I would argue personal battles between good and evil (relative morality) were built into the fabric of the Bible. For instance, why would God make Adam and Eve inquisitive and tell them not to touch the “Tree of Knowledge” (that He placed in the middle of their Garden of Eden) if He didn’t want them to grapple with it? Why would an all-powerful God allow a seductive serpent-devil into such a place? If an illegal tree were necessary, why not put it 2000 miles away on top of some impossible peak? Obviously, moral challenges were here from the beginning (to whatever degree eating fruit is immoral).

I enjoyed Phil’s discussion about virtue: the core behavior he aspires all Christians to follow. I am happy he includes Socrates by name as another (much earlier) proponent of similar behaviors, and John Adams as another source. While much theological leverage is eschatological in nature, it should not be the necessary source for the ultimate goal: virtue. This does beg the question: are there other paths to virtue besides Christianity? Phil does make it clear that Christians rarely score better than non-Christians on sin- or vice-avoidance. In this sense, his recurrent theme of making society and schools more Christian does not make sense. Christianity is the path that worked for Phil and millions of Americans, but it is not the only path. Added emphasis on his religion may disenfranchise others on equally noble trajectories.

My challenge to Phil has to do with nuance. While his understanding of the Bible is thorough and advanced, I don’t get the sense he considers truth vs. allegory, history vs. theology, or the time-dependent evolution of the now Christian message away from the Jewish tradition. The earliest Christian writings (Paul) are written with the goal of fulfillment of scripture, legitimizing Jesus as the true Messiah, and solving his perceived limitations of Jewish theology. Jesus’ disciples often had clashing viewpoints of what Jewish traditions to support after the crucifixion (Jews and gentiles pray together? Circumcision required?). Paul was stoned and imprisoned multiple times as he debated crowds, so he maintained a careful sense of politics, theological incrementalism, and history. His message evolved slowly during his ministry, and he had significant influence over Mark, Titus, and Luke. How did this change their theology? How did the message change between Paul’s first Letter to the Thessalonians (c. 50 AD), Gospel of Mark (c. 70 AD), and Gospel of John (c. 100 AD), especially realizing none of the New Testament writers were eyewitnesses. How much did the preceding texts influence the later texts? And were Paul’s latest writings pseudepigraphic (Ephesians, Timothy 1 and 2, and Titus), as their writing styles and content often depart strongly from his earlier traditions. It took several hundred years to define the contents of the modern Bible. Which gospels and letters to include? How much politics took place…? It suffices to say God did not hand down the modern Bible. It was edited and debated by man for hundreds of years as they pondered Jesus’ singularity (all god? all man?), duality (percentage of both), or trinity.

So why did I give this book a 5? Phil walks the walk. He backs his beliefs with theological evidence. While I sometimes criticize his rigidity of interpretation, his commitment to the cause is noteworthy. He is not afraid to call out politicians for divisive rhetoric, criticize churches for favoring the affluent, or reprimand Christians for part-time subscription to the Word. For this reason, I believe he wrestles with the same issues as Nietzsche and other philosophical leaders. He is at his best when he behaves like what I call a “first-century” Christian and maintains the equality and beneficence of Jesus and Paul. He has predictably conservative views about abortion and same-sex marriages. He loses me when he attacks homosexuals as going to hell for a genetic predisposition as if it were a lifestyle choice. Jesus approached sexual concerns with grace (“let he who is without sin…” John 8:7), while Phil wields God’s eschatological hammer (despite his own past). Perhaps he should read more Plato to see the path to virtue without threatening hell fire. While I applaud his openmindedness to people of all walks of life, his damning criticisms of homosexuals does not exude the beneficence of his Christian role models no matter what the scriptures say.

[Sequoyah Branham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Phil lays it out there straight and solid.
There’s no sugar coating in this book. That convicted me. Why will I not stand up the way Phil shows he has done through his life?

I appreciate that he shares his story, verses from the Bible, facts from our history, and wraps it all up into one book that calls America to wake up and pay attention.

[Kendall · Rating 1 out of 5]

As a 16 year old, bisexual, agnostic, pro-choice woman, I am clearly not the intended audience of this book. This isn't one I'd normally pick up, but I figured reading something from a different perspective could be good for me.

I can see where Phil Robertson gets his beliefs from, and (to an extent), I respect his point of view. However, I can't bring myself to rate this book any higher due to the vaguely racist, loudly homophobic points made in this book. I respect religion, but I don't respect your opinion when it disrespects someone else's existence. You don't have to murder gay people in the street to be homophobic, and you don't have to scream the n-word from the rooftops to be racist.

As for his actual writing, I enjoyed his funny prose and sarcasm. It was easy to read and, if I agreed with him more, would probably be one I could read through in one sitting. The part of his writing I didn't like was the constant retelling of Biblical stories. If I wanted to read the Bible, I would. I understand references and quotes, but the majority of this book was just retelling stories with comments on them afterward. I would've liked more of Phil's actual words.

Finally, just one more complaint. In chapter 10, Phil talks a lot about freedom of speech and the "attack" on it in this country as of late, but I don't think he (much like many conservatives today) fully understands what his right to freedom of speech means. While socially, yes, things have become less acceptable, your freedom of speech has never been infringed upon. Freedom of speech in the constitution prevents the government from punishing you for your words (to an extent). It says nothing about social consequences for those words. If you say something rude or offensive, people have every right to tell you to shut up. That's their freedom of speech.

All in all, this book would've been much better without the not-so-subtle bigotry, but considering it's intended audience is right-wing Christians, it's understandable that there was some.

Fun fact: I (along with the rest of my family) were dedicated watchers of Duck Dynasty in the 2000's/2010's. We even own a Christmas music CD from them. I loved the show before I began to think for myself and develop my own views. So while reading some of the lines in this book disappointed me, it didn't surprise me.

[Sassa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am not a fan of “Duck Dynasty,” the reality TV show, (reality TV is just not for me) but I thought I would dip into this book written by the patriarch of the show because it is recommended by many leaders in the Christian community. I can see why. It is bold and plain spoken. You know exactly where Robertson stands and his reasoning for that stand. I appreciate that.

I think this published quote may explain it better than I can.
WEST MONROE, LOUISIANA — In response to a less-than-favorable review from Publishers Weekly of his forthcoming book, The Theft of America’s Soul: Blowing the Lid Off the Lies That Are Destroying Our Country, Phil Robertson issues the following statement:

“The Publishers Weekly review is exactly what I hoped for. I decided from the very beginning that I would tell it like it is because I have not — and will not — be ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. God’s truth is always right, and I’m very proud that this notable publication has accused me of preaching it. And preach I will — more of it, and louder. That’s exactly why I wrote The Theft of America’s Soul to begin with. It is one long sermon from my heart to the soul of America.”

[Sam Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phil’s book delivers the Godly gut check that America needs. These days, the lies to tear down are numerous; in the spirit of 2 Timothy 3:16, God through Phil does just that.

[Jennifer Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another good book by this author. He narrates it himself and makes it more enjoyable. Keep preaching Phil!

[Ezra Miller · Rating 3 out of 5]

I actually enjoyed this book for the most part (despite my 3 star rating 😂). I love his passion for his faith and how strong and unwavering he is in his love for Christ. With that, basically all of his statements were very bold while not being what I see as the actual truth even when they were being stated like they are. He also was pretty adamant that “the lefties” would hate what he was saying. Kind of seemed that his view of anyone (Christian or not) that votes non republican are against him and the “truth”.
At the end of the day, I really did enjoy this read and hearing from a very different opinion than I’m used to hearing from in my day to day.

[Paige · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Heartfelt and true. Miss you, Phil!

[Don · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book and very “to the point”. Phil Robertson has no problem presenting the gospel as clearly written in the Bible. And having lived the life he did prior to surrendering to Jesus, he knows what it takes to bring others to repentance, grace and salvation.

[Costen Warner · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was a gift and not something I would normally choose to read, but it’s important to venture outside your normal reading selection. I think the author presents the gospel in an effective way that seems authentic to his experience. I did not appreciate his political commentary but respect him for displaying his opinion in a transparent and concise manner.

[CheyAnn Robin ·ᴥ· · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is one of those books that everyone needs to read!
I loved how honest he was off his past, and spoke of how he became a Christian. This book had many good points in it, he spoke off all the lies that Satan wants Christians and non-believers to believe. I highly recommend this book to every American.

[Sherrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a good book. I liked that he does so well spreading the gospel. People miss judge him because of his beard. He is a very intelligent man. He has several degrees and used to be a school teacher. I was impressed by his thought process in this book.

[David Rough · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author identifies several lies that America has adopted as truth - all of which stem from the declarative statement made in 1966 that "God is dead." Phil Robertson utilizes his personal testimony to the transforming power of the gospel of Jesus Christ to communicate the counterpoint to the falsehoods that are destroying our society and culture.

The book makes good use of the scriptures and highlights the author’s experiences of salvation. He does not provide research or documentation of the nation’s decay, which would have made his case for change even more powerful and worthy of serious attention. Many may dismiss his insights as the philosophical conclusions of an individual rather than a well-documented analysis of our country’s movement toward the lies of humanism, relativism, and pluralism.

[Theophilus · Rating 5 out of 5]

A real wake up call for the luke warm...

I don't know if I've ever read a clearer, more straight forward, and biblically accurate description of what it means to speak the Gospel to our world... especially a country that so many Christians are keen to sit around and complain about, but few are willing to put themselves out there as boldly and with zeal proclaim the truth. I have a Ph.D. in Theology, and I've read a lot of books about mission. Who woul habe thought the best one came from a duck hunter known for being on a funny TV show. God bless you, brother Phil. You're a genuine inspiration.