Lord Tweedsmuir reflects on the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln, emphasizing his spiritual depth, moral convictions, and the divine guidance that shaped his decisions. Lincoln's greatness was revealed through his moral revulsion against slavery, mystical sense of the Union's importance, and abiding conviction in following the divine order. Despite facing personal turmoil and political challenges, Lincoln's spiritual depth and theological reflections, especially during his presidency, set him apart as a remarkable leader. His journey from doubt to faith, from anguish to hope, and from uncertainty to divine guidance showcases a man deeply committed to his principles and the well-being of the nation.

Elton Trueblood preaches about the transformative journey of Abraham Lincoln during his presidency, emphasizing his shift from a local politician to a world statesman dedicated to the achievement of freedom for all. Lincoln's deepening spiritual development and reliance on God's will are highlighted, culminating in his pivotal decision to issue the Emancipation Proclamation as a war measure. Through moments of grief, criticism, and internal struggle, Lincoln's faith and moral strength are tested and ultimately solidified, leading to his profound realization that he is an instrument in God's hands to accomplish a great work.

Abraham Lincoln's deep reverence for the Bible is evident in his speeches and actions, acknowledging it as the best gift from God and the source of all that is good and desirable for humanity. His speaking style was greatly influenced by the Bible, particularly the Old Testament, with a focus on parallelism and monosyllables reminiscent of Hebrew poetry. Lincoln's familiarity with the Bible stemmed from his early encounters in schooling and his mother's recitations, leading to his profound understanding and application of biblical principles in his political decisions, especially regarding slavery. He believed in the importance of interpreting the Scriptures intelligently and in the context of human experience, emphasizing the need to choose the least damaging alternative in moral decisions.

Elton Trueblood delves into the deep religious experiences of Abraham Lincoln, highlighting his profound faith in God and the power of prayer. Lincoln's personal practice of prayer, from seeking guidance to expressing gratitude, is evident throughout his life, shaping his character and decisions. Despite facing immense burdens and challenges, Lincoln maintained a genuine and deep piety, seeking God's will and guidance in all aspects of his life. His theology of prayer focused on understanding God's will and seeking divine mercy and blessings for the nation, emphasizing humility, repentance, and unity in prayer.

Abraham Lincoln's theology did not require him to be a member of a particular church, as his faith was centered more in the Bible than in the Church. His failure to join a church was common in his time, where church membership was not as central as it is in modern times. Lincoln's respect for churches grew during his presidency, especially as he faced criticism from some church members and clergy. Despite not joining a specific church, Lincoln admired various denominations and recognized the importance of organized worshiping groups.

Elton Trueblood delves into the profound theological reflections of Abraham Lincoln, emphasizing his unwavering belief in the sovereignty and guidance of God in the midst of great trials and national crises. Lincoln's patriotism was rooted in a deep sense of divine will, leading him to prioritize God's plan in all human decisions, especially in the moral development of nations like the United States. His speeches, including the Second Inaugural Address and the Gettysburg Address, reveal a theology steeped in Scripture, emphasizing the paradox of God's justice and mercy in the unfolding of history.