PaulK writes:
So we can call him a theist in the general sense, which includes Deists. As your quote says:
Not really. Here is the definition from merriam webster
quote:
the supreme or ultimate reality: such as
a : the Being perfect in power, wisdom, and goodness who is worshipped as creator and ruler of the universe.
He simply believes that life is the result of an intelligent creator. He doesn't believe that this intelligence is to be worshipped or that the intelligence rules in any sense of the word.
He can't be classified as a deist because has no idea whether this intelligence has any interest in this existence or not.
PaulK writes:
Theism is broadly defined as the belief in the existence of the Supreme Being or deities
That broad definition is clearly right.
An intelligent cause for existence does not mean that it has to be considered either a supreme being, nor a deity.
He just doesn't have any beliefs other than the idea that we are more likley to be the result of intelligence rather than the chance collection of mindless particles.
Between the ages of 18 and 36 I considered myself culturally Christian but as far as my actual beliefs were concerned I was agnostic.
He has told you, O man, what is good ; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justice, to love kindness, And to walk humbly with your God.
Micah 6:8