The Exaltation of a Reasonable Deity: Thomas Jefferson's Critique of Christianity

Abstract

Thomas Jefferson pursued truth, purity and enlightenment in religion. Although his methods of 'raillery' offended some, his motives were altruistic and his goals admirable. Specifically, Jefferson's critique of Christianity suggested a simpler, more enlightened alternative of how to perceive God. This paper examines Thomas Jefferson's critique of Christianity as witnessed through the plethora of well-preserved letters written to various correspondents throughout his life. The broad goal of the paper is to discover the impact of the successes and failures that accompanied his attempt to reform Christianity. The focus rests on Jefferson's fundamental struggles with the corrupt attributes of Christianity instituted by the priestcraft, the failure of this corrupted Christianity to stand up to the test of reason, and the simple theology Jefferson felt was clearly evident in Jesus' original message.