Noble American Lives: Biographies of America's Religious Thinkers and Believers

Noble American Lives: Biographies of America's Religious Thinkers and Believers

By William H. BensonReligion & SpiritualityHistoryReligion
Download on the App Store

Noble American Lives: Biographies of America's Religious Thinkers and Believers episodes

  • Roger Williams vs. Cotton Mather, Episode 29: Comparing the Two Thinkers

    In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host Bill Benson continues the discussion from his book, 'The Parallel Lives of the Noble American Religious Thinkers and Believers', focusing on the contrast between the religious thinkers Roger Williams and Cotton Mather, each representing a different perspective on the religious and political evolution of America in the 17th century. The podcast details their lives, philosophical beliefs, career paths, and their influence on American history. The episode also mentions how Benson's book is available for purchase on Amazon and encourages listeners to subscribe to his newsletter for historical insights. The podcast concludes by drawing parallels between the societal, theological, and philosophical views of Roger Williams and Cotton Mather, and their impact on future American society. 01:14 Exploring the Lives of Roger Williams and Cotton Mather 02:43 Comparing the Lives of Roger Williams and Cotton Mather 06:32 The Influence of Geography on Their Lives 07:46 Their Social Movements and Theological Directions 14:23 Their Contributions to Literature 17:31 Their Family Lives 20:11 Their Personalities and Reactions to Rejection 23:39 Their Beliefs and Practices 25:33 Their Political Involvements 27:09 Their Views on Church and State 30:49 Their Work Ethic and Major Works 39:46 Their Views on End Times

    43 min
  • Cotton Mather, Episode 28: Cotton Mather Final Days

    In this episode of the podcast, host Bill Benson provides a deep dive into his book, The Parallel Lives of the Noble American Religious Thinkers and Believers, where he explores the lives of significant American religious figures, comparing a thinker and a believer. The episode mainly features Roger Williams and Cotton Mather. He highlights their substantial contributions to American history and religious thought and shares their stories. Benson also describes Cotton Mather's religious devotion and emphasizes on his writing style. In addition, he provides practical advice for ministerial students stemming from Cotton Mather's views on health and prudence. The episode wraps up with the narrating of Cotton Mather's final days. 02:47 Cotton Mather's Advice to Young Ministers 07:41 Cotton Mather's Thoughts on Various Academic Disciplines 11:47 Cotton Mather's Guidance on Theological Study and Pastoring 17:48 Cotton Mather's Rules of Health and Prudence 24:03 Cotton Mather's Final Days and Legacy 28:29 Cotton Mather's Last Sermon and Death 35:07 Reflections on Cotton Mather's Life and Work

    39 min
  • Cotton Mather, Episode 26: A Compounding of Sorrows & The Final Days
    In this podcast, host Bill Benson explores the lives and works of American religious thinkers and believers featured in his book, 'The Parallel Lives of the Noble American Religious Thinkers and Believers'. The episode primarily revolves around figures such as Roger Williams and Cotton Mather, alongside others like Thomas Paine, George Whitefield, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Joseph Smith. Details of Mather's relationship with Benjamin Franklin are discussed, along with vital historical events and their impact on the thinkers. Furthermore, Bill mentions his biography on Roger Williams, relating it to the current series of podcasts, shedding light on his exile and establishment of a plantation in Rhode Island. (08:34) Cotton Mather's Personal Struggles and Financial Crisis (13:09) Cotton Mather's Relationship with His Family (16:19) Cotton Mather's Rejection from Harvard Presidency (29:46) Benjamin Franklin's Interaction with Cotton Mather (34:46) Cotton Mather's Final Years and Works
    42 min

About Noble American Lives: Biographies of America's Religious Thinkers and Believers

From the publisher's feed

This show is about the lives of certain individuals from America's past, who participated in America's religious journey over the past five centuries. Some thought more deeply than did others. Some believed in new ways. Some believed in old ways, but promoted an existing religion in a new way.