“It is the glory of God to conceal things, but the glory of kings is to search things out” – Proverbs 25:2 ESV
There is no other Founding Father in American history more misunderstood and falsely portrayed in our public schools than Thomas Jefferson. Why? Because we are and have been experiencing the deconstruction of American history for the last decades. This is exactly what has happen with the secular interpretation of the history of Christianity. Just listen to the average person talk about the Crusades or Puritans and you will get and understanding of how Christianity is viewed.
Deconstructionism is the continuous de-emphasis, effacement, maligning, smearing and negative critiquing of America, it’s Founding Fathers and heroes. This is why, as a result, most Americans are quick to tell you a litany of the “wrongs and ills” of America and not the good that we have done and are doing in the world.
With regard to Thomas Jefferson, deconstructionism is alive and well.
Many historians considered Jefferson the brightest of the Founding Fathers. He was a true renaissance man. The election of 1800 between Jefferson and John Adams was said to be the dirtiest election in American history. Stories were printed daily about both candidates that were flat out false, but many believed what they read and had an impression of Jefferson that simply wasn’t true. In David Barton’s The Jefferson Lies he writes about a story that more accurately portrays Jefferson’s personality:
“Jefferson was not only unassuming and humble but he was also good-natured, and his manners never deserted him—even to those who opposed him. For example, on one occasion while returning on horseback to Washington, he greeted a passing pedestrian. The stranger did not recognize President Jefferson, but the two began a friendly conversation that soon turned to politics. The man began to attack and deride the president, even repeating several of the lies that had been spread about him. Jefferson was amused and he asked the man if he knew the President personally? ‘No,’ was the reply, ‘nor do I wish to.’ ‘But do you think it fair,’ asked Jefferson, ‘to repeat such stories about a man and condemn one you dare not face?’ ‘I will never shrink from meeting Mr. Jefferson should he ever come in my way’ replied the stranger.
Jefferson then promised him that if he would come to the White House at a certain time the next day, he would personally introduce him to the president. The next day the stranger appeared for the meeting and was taken to meet President Jefferson. The man was immediately embarrassed and began to apologize, but Jefferson, with a grin on his face, laughed off the apology and extended his hand in welcome greeting. The two then spent several hours in delightful conversation, and when the man rose to depart, Jefferson prevailed on him to stay for dinner.” Barton, 211-212
An Action to Take: Communicate this story and the concept of “deconstructionism” with two other people this week.
Thanks for Reading!
Rick Hennessy