Was America Founded on Biblical Principles?
The U.S. Constitution, finalized in 1787, is a cornerstone of governance and liberty. While it does not explicitly mention God, many of its principles align with biblical truths. These truths emphasize the role of moral law, the divine origin of human rights, and the purpose of government. In this episode we explore three pillars of God and government, enriched with Scripture to reveal how these principles reflect biblical teaching.
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1. There Is a God, and He Has Established a Fixed Moral Law
The Constitution assumes the existence of universal truths—principles that govern justice and fairness. This idea aligns with the Bible’s declaration:
- “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1, NLT)
By acknowledging a Creator, the foundation of the Constitution reflects an ordered world governed by divine laws. These moral laws are evident in the Ten Commandments, given to guide human behavior:
- “You must not steal. You must not testify falsely against your neighbor.” (Exodus 20:15-16, NLT)
The rule of law, central to the Constitution, echoes biblical justice. In God’s eyes, righteousness and impartiality are essential:
- “Judges must be impartial. They must hear the case of those who are poor just as they hear the case of those who are rich.” (Deuteronomy 1:17, NLT)
The Constitution reflects this concept by establishing a legal system grounded in objective, unchanging principles that mirror God’s moral law, ensuring fairness and accountability.
2. God, Not the Government, Gives Rights to Every Human Being
The Constitution’s protection of inalienable rights—life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness—rests on the belief that rights are given by God, not government. Scripture affirms this truth:
- “What are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them? Yet you made them only a little lower than God and crowned them with glory and honor.” (Psalm 8:4-5, NLT)
Every human being possesses dignity and worth because they are created in God’s image:
- “So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:27, NLT)
This foundational truth underscores the Constitution’s emphasis on individual freedoms. By safeguarding these rights, the document reflects God’s design for humanity. Government’s role, then, is to protect these God-given freedoms, not to grant or revoke them.
3. Government Exists to Protect Rights and Enforce Moral Law
The Constitution defines government’s purpose as protecting rights and maintaining order. The Bible reinforces this by teaching that government is a servant of God, tasked with promoting good and restraining evil:
- “The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid, for they have the power to punish you.” (Romans 13:4, NLT)
The preamble begins with the phrase, “We the People,” emphasizing that authority flows from the consent of the governed. This principle aligns with biblical teaching on appointing leaders:
- “Choose some well-respected men from each tribe who are known for their wisdom and understanding, and I will appoint them as your leaders.” (Deuteronomy 1:13, NLT)
However, the Constitution’s scope raises a question: do these rights extend only to citizens, or are they universal? Scripture challenges us to recognize that all people are valued by God, deserving of justice and dignity:
- “For God does not show favoritism.” (Romans 2:11, NLT)
- “Do not take advantage of foreigners who live among you in your land. Treat them like native-born Israelites, and love them as you love yourself.” (Leviticus 19:33-34, NLT)
These verses remind us that while the Constitution primarily governs its citizens, its principles reflect God’s heart for all people.
Conclusion
The U.S. Constitution is a remarkable reflection of biblical principles. It acknowledges a Creator who establishes moral law, affirms that human rights come from God, and defines government as a servant to protect those rights. As Christians, we can celebrate these truths while advocating for policies and practices that align more fully with God’s Word.
Ultimately, true liberty is found not in human governance but in submission to God’s eternal law. As Scripture reminds us:
- “For the Lord is our judge, our lawgiver, and our king. He will care for us and save us.” (Isaiah 33:22, NLT)
By living out these principles, we can encourage a nation that honors God and reflects His justice, mercy, and truth.
