I am writing to Christians in regards to the 250th Anniversary Celebration of our Independence as the United States of America.
As we celebrate and remember the Founding Era, it is important that we strive to learn how the founders understanding of Christianity formed a worldview perspective that was integral to the creation of our unique political and governing documents.
Many of our founders studied the teachings of Martin Luther, John Calvin and Ulrich Zwingli and were influenced by the principles of the Reformation. Thomas Jefferson stressed the liberty of conscience. George Washington felt government should safeguard religious worship and religion was a moral necessity for good government. James Madison favored no preferential treatment of one denomination over another.
The founders were steeped in the Christian faith and understood how “religion” shapes systems of government. They received the good news of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. They understood the blessing of the providential opportunity and privilege to form a governing system in a new and promising environment. Seldom did they hesitate to seek guidance from the Lord and His Word. They knew the Lord’s Prayer and most likely pondered these words,
“Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven” Matt 6:10
They knew that Jesus said “The kingdom of heaven is within you” Luke 17:21
In studying and reflecting on God’s Word they certainly would have asked “how is the kingdom to advance?” as they pondered Jesus’ words known as the Great Commission.
“go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you until the end of the age.” Matt 28:19-20
It is with this worldview in mind and upon this foundation they formed the framework of a political and governing system unequal in all the world. We must remember their work and continue to ask “What is God’s will for us and how is the Lord’s Kingdom advanced in all areas of our life and government today? “
As we remember how the founders’ faith, knowledge and wisdom formed the Founding Documents and bore witness to their commitment, we must must return to faith in God’s Word and renew our minds.
“not be conformed to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Then we will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – His good, pleasing and perfect will” Rom 12:2
As we remember 250 we should pray “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven” realizing that Jesus spoke the truth that “the kingdom of heaven is within you”
For more about our Founding Era
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