The Foundation of American Government: A Judeo-Christian Perspective
As we explore the relationship between world view and government, it becomes evident that the Founding Fathers of the United States understood the significance of this connection. John Witherspoon, a Presbyterian minister and president of Princeton University, was a key figure in shaping the country’s foundation. He linked Christian thinking with the concepts of government, which was not incidental but fundamental to the founding of the nation.
The Influence of Samuel Rutherford and Lex Rex
Witherspoon stood consciously in the stream of Samuel Rutherford, a Scotsman who wrote Lex Rex in 1644. This work introduced the revolutionary idea that law is king, rather than the king being law. This concept had a profound impact on the development of American government, as it established the principle that the heads of government are under the law, not above it.
The Secularization of Lex Rex by John Locke
Jefferson and other Founding Fathers were influenced by John Locke, who secularized Lex Rex while drawing heavily from it. Although Locke’s work was not explicitly Christian, it retained the core idea that law is supreme and that governments derive their authority from the consent of the governed.
The Significance of “Inalienable Rights”
The phrase “certain inalienable rights” is a cornerstone of American democracy. But what gives these rights? The state? If so, they are not inalienable, as the state can change or revoke them. The Founding Fathers understood that these rights come from a higher authority, one that transcends human government.
The Role of Prayer in American Government
Prayer has played a significant role in American government since its inception. The first Congress had a paid chaplain, and prayer opened each session. This tradition continued, reflecting the Founding Fathers’ understanding that government should be guided by a higher power.
The First Thanksgiving Day
In 1777, the Continental Congress declared the first national day of thanksgiving. This event reflects the Founding Fathers’ recognition of God’s sovereignty and their dependence on divine providence.
The Connection between Virtue and Liberty
John Witherspoon’s sermon on the first Thanksgiving Day emphasized the importance of virtue in preserving liberty. He stated, “A republic once equally poised must either preserve its virtue or lose its liberty.” This sentiment reflects the Founding Fathers’ understanding that morality and faith are essential to maintaining freedom.
The Consensus on Religious Freedom
The cultural consensus of the time recognized the importance of Christianity in shaping American values. However, this consensus also allowed for religious freedom, including the freedom to hold differing views. This balance between faith and freedom has been a hallmark of American democracy.
The Shift Away from America’s Judeo-Christian Foundation
Over time, American society has shifted away from its Judeo-Christian foundation. Law, government, education, and media have all contributed to this shift. However, there is a growing recognition of the need to reestablish the values that America was founded upon.
The Enduring Legacy of William Blackstone
William Blackstone’s Commentaries on the Law of England shaped American law and jurisprudence. His work, which emphasized the importance of nature and revelation, remains a testament to the enduring legacy of America’s Judeo-Christian heritage.
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