Terry Burnett, the author of the book “The Lost Epistle,” was interviewed by Benji Cole from CBS Radio. The inspiration behind The Lost Epistle traces back to a conspiracy theory book Bernet read in the 1990s, involving the Knights Templar and the supposed hidden bloodline of Jesus. Bernett’s journey from idea to publication spanned decades of writing and rewriting, enriched by research and introspection. He was motivated not just by a desire to entertain, but by the opportunity to pose meaningful questions and invite readers into a deeper exploration of their own beliefs.
People of Distinction is one of the most wide-ranging radio shows in the United States, hosted by Benji Cole and Al Cole from CBS Radio. People of Distinction is the right fit for authors and readers to discover newly published books, mostly written by passionate and independent authors.
Terry Burnett is a former schoolteacher and practicing legal educator based in Columbia, South Carolina, where he works in continuing legal education with the South Carolina Bar. His academic background includes studies in Christian education, theology, and law—disciplines that uniquely inform his writing.
Terry Burnett is the Continuing Legal Education Director for the South Carolina Bar. He began to be interested in writing theological mystery thrillers when he read Holy Blood, Holy Grail in the late 1980s. Terry Burnet lives with his wife Sally and Miniature Eskie, Lily in Little Mountain, SC.
“The Lost Epistle” by Terry Burnett is a bold, thought-provoking novel that blends elements of theological speculation, historical fiction, and high-stakes conspiracy into a fast-paced thriller. At its core lies an explosive premise: what if the Apostle Paul, the foundational figure of early Christianity, had written a secret final letter that radically challenged the beliefs that millions have held for over two millennia?
Burnett’s story opens with the speculative but compelling idea that Paul, near the end of his life, may have authored a letter addressed not to the Christian churches, but to his fellow Jews. In it, Paul allegedly admits that his belief in Jesus as the Messiah may have been mistaken, particularly because Jesus had not returned within Paul’s lifetime, as many in the first century expected.
This fictional manuscript—dubbed “The Lost Epistle”—comes to light in the modern era, igniting a frenzy among scholars, religious leaders, secret societies, and truth-seekers alike. From Catholic factions desperate to suppress it, to Protestant pastors who see it as either a threat or an opportunity, to historians intrigued by its theological significance, every character has an agenda. The result is a tension-filled race to uncover—or bury—the document, with motives ranging from noble to nefarious.
“The Lost Epistle” is more than a gripping mystery—it’s a platform for dialogue. Burnett doesn’t claim to offer theological truth; rather, he crafts a fictional scenario that challenges readers to think critically and engage spiritually. The book invites both believers and skeptics into a shared conversation about faith, history, and the power of narrative.
Whether you’re a devout Christian, a curious thinker, or simply a lover of thrilling narratives, this book will captivate your mind and stir your soul.
To delve deeper into Terry’s inspiration behind his book and its content, you can watch the full interview below: