Session Handouts

Every session leaves you with a handout: Scripture, history, and framework in your hands before you walk out the door.

Engaging Teaching

Story-driven teaching that makes history come alive and Scripture cut deep.

History & Theology 

Rigorous history. Faithful theology. Taught together — because the church needs both to think clearly in the public square.

About the masterclass

Session One. Trace the Christian moral imagination from Jerusalem through Rome, through Augustine, through the Reformation, through the Puritans, down to Philadelphia in 1787. You will see how Christianity shaped the country you live in — and why no honest historian can deny it. Session Two. Open the Bible and learn what God Himself says about civil government. From Genesis 1 to Romans 13. From the image of God to the image on Caesar's coin. You will leave with a biblical framework strong enough to hold the weight of every political question you will face for the rest of your life. Session Three. Learn what "separation of church and state" actually means — and the 1947 court decision that inverted it. Learn what "Christian nationalism" actually means — and where the term is being used as a weapon. Walk away knowing how to engage the public square with conviction without ever confusing your country with your kingdom.

Tanner DiBella

Tanner DiBella is an author, pastor, and speaker committed to strengthening the Church and developing courageous public leaders. He is the founder and president of The American Council, where he equips leaders with biblical conviction, moral clarity, and practical tools for leadership in complex cultural moments. Tanner earned a BA in Political Science from the University of California, Davis, holds a master’s degree in Executive Leadership, and is a doctoral candidate in Strategic Leadership. His work focuses on forming leaders who lead with integrity, wisdom, and humility in both ministry and civic life.

Curriculum

3 Chapters · 7 Lessons

  1. 1

    The River Behind the Republic

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Part I: The Christian Moral Imagination

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Lesson Handout

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Debate: Is America a Christian Nation?

  2. 2

    Render Unto Caesar

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Part II: Render Unto Caesar

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Lesson Handout

  3. 3

    Faithful Citizenship

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Part III: Faithful Citizenship

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Lesson Handout

What people are saying

Feedback from those who have taken the class

”
Great class! very enjoyable. I love Tanner's delivery, easy to listen to. Super packed with information but not overloaded.
Phil Storment

California

”
Great history lesson on foundation of Christianity in America. Tanner is a great communicator and brings details together in a concise delivery style.
Roger Hall

California

Register for Church & State

Learn how to be an effective witness in American public life. 

$24.99

Enroll now