3/22/2004 Ken Nisewanger

What does it mean to be an American and a Christian?

Introduction:
The purpose of this paper is not to provide the only interpretation of the scriptures, but rather to provide a basis for
further investigation. Accepting another’s view does not replace proper research, questions and prayer. If you choose
to use this document, use this only as part of further research. Fides quaerens intellectum (faith seeking understanding),
Anselm of Canterbury (1033 – 1109).

Good American and Christian

Today in this world of Instant Messages and Emails, opinions of what a good American or good
Christian is are bombarding us. We have concerns regarding foreigners, other religions and different
sexual preferences. Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, many are critical of Muslims and
Middle Easterners. There are many voices some secular and some sectarian. Many of these voices
promoting one view over another, or contrary to a particular belief. How should a Christian
American respond and relate to these voices. Let us examine this issue. We will look at it from: an
American perspective; from a Christian perspective; and how they relate or conflict. What does it
mean – to be a good American and a good Christian?

American Rights
The phrase ‘Home of the Free’ is well known. What does that mean? We often talk about American
rights and liberties, but often we take these very American freedoms for granted? Our founding
fathers declared their independence from the British Crown and Great Britain. In doing so, they
risked their own lives, risked war and the lives of their fellow countrymen. Why did they risk so
much? What did they hope to gain or accomplish? What are the foundations of our country? We
could talk at length about these topics; however, for the purposes of this paper, we will limit our
conversation to a few subjects.
The Constitution of the United States and its amendments guarantee certain rights to the people. It is
well to note here that the Constitution takes great efforts to protect rights of the individual. Even our
Declaration of Independence includes ‘invasions of the rights of the people’ as one of the reasons for
the break with England.

The American’s creed

I believe in the United States of America as a Government of the people, by the
people, for the people; whose just powers are derived from the consent of the
governed; a democracy in a republic; a sovereign nation of many sovereign states; a
perfect union, one and inseparable; established upon those principles of freedom,
equality, justice, and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and
fortunes.
I therefore believe it is my duty to my country to love it; to support its Constitution;
to obey its laws; to respect its flag; and to defend it against all enemies.
William Tyler Page
Declaration of Independence, July 5, 1776
The first paragraph states the necessity for separation. However, the first sentence of the second
paragraph states: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they
are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and
the pursuit of Happiness.” Clearly while happiness is not a right, the pursuit of it is, along with life
and liberty. From the beginning, our founding fathers had these liberties on their minds and
considered them rights essential.

Constitution of the United States of America

In the first paragraph of the Constitution of the United States, it states a reason for the Constitution is
to “secure the Blessing of Liberty to ourselves”. The Declaration of Independence states that liberty
is an inalienable right and the Constitution seeks to secure those rights. The ‘Bill of Rights’ contains
several of these liberties and rights: freedom of religion; speech; assembly; the right to bear arms;
trial; no excessive fines or punishment, etc.
Repeatedly we see the rights and liberties of the individual were concerns of our Founding Fathers.
We fought a King and government because we did not have these rights.

Are we a Republic or a Democracy?

Funk & Wagnall’s definitions: Democracy: “… in its purest form, holds that the state should be
controlled by all the people, each sharing equally in privileges, duties, and responsibilities and each
participating in person in the government…”; Republic: “A state in which the sovereignty resides in
the people or a certain portion of the people, and the legislative and administrative powers are
lodged in officers elected by and representing the people; a representative democracy…”
We have a representative democracy or a Republic. Why would our Founding Fathers choose this
over a democracy? Two reasons come to mind; the first is that requiring the public to vote and
decide on every issue is not very efficient. However, there is another reason; our founding fathers
were concerned with the opinion of the majority and of a single political power gaining too much
influence.

It is un-American to disagree with the President or his policy?

“Either you are with us or you are with the terrorist”. – President Bush before a joint
session of Congress, September 20, 2001
To those Americans who criticize his methods: “your tactics only aid terrorist”. –
John Ashcroft testifying before a Senate panel
“Anyone who reported this morning that [Ashcroft] criticized anyone who opposed
him was absolutely wrong and in doing so became a part of the exact problem he was
describing.” – Mindy Tucker of the Department of Justice
They do seem to be saying ‘If you criticize me you are aiding terrorism or are siding with the
terrorists’. Shortly after the attacks of September 11, 2001, these views quickly caught on. They
became popular, and soon after that, it became popular to attack anyone disagreeing with the policy
of the administration. They describe exercising a fundamental right as tantamount to treason. We
can assume that the President of the United States of America and its Attorney General understand
that ‘Freedom of Speech’ is something we did not have under the rule of the British Crown. One of

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the primary intents of the First Amendment Freedom of Speech is to be able to criticize our elected
officials and not suffer for it. The kind of nationalism that arose seems out of place in light of our
history. Attitudes similar to these squelch freedoms for which Americans have died defending. This
is not to say we should condone sedition or acts against America. Freedom of speech does not
extend to yelling fire in a theater or promoting violent actions. These are not protected speech.
Therefore, the question is when did it become un-American to commit a very American act? These
men are not sovereign kings or rulers but our representatives. When did it become un-American to
disagree with the President? I submit it never did! Included in our Constitution is protection for
minorities, minority opinion and the opinion of those not in power. It is not simply our liberty and
right but also our responsibility as Americans to question our elected officials and voice our
opinions. We have fallen victim to the zeal of majority opinion. Some people have unfortunately,
played to that zeal for their own purposes.

If the majority wants something what is wrong with that?

We live in a representative democracy. The will and opinion of the majority carry considerable
weight. Our vote for the officials that represent us is an example of the will of the people. Our
Founding Fathers realized however, there is a balance between majority opinion or rule and the will
and needs of the minority.
Consider our two Houses of Congress. One, the House of Representatives, represents the people and
as such, the more people the more representatives. This clearly shows a majority concept and view.
On the other hand, the Senate limits the representatives to two per State. Thereby we are able to
balance and limit the states with more people (the majority) from dictating their will upon states with
fewer (the minority) people. Thus, we reach a balance between the will of the people and the rights
of the few.
”Let me now take a more comprehensive view, and warn you in the most solemn
manner against the baneful effects of the Spirit of Party, generally.
This Spirit, unfortunately, is inseparable from our nature, having its root in the
strongest passions of the human mind. It exists under different shapes in all
Governments, more or less stifled, controuled, or repressed; but in those of the
popular form it is seen in its greatest rankness and is truly their worst enemy.
The alternate dominion of one faction over another, sharpened by the spirit of revenge
natural to party dissention, which in different ages and countries has perpetrated the
most horrid enormities, is itself a frightful despotism. The disorders and miseries,
which result, gradually incline the minds of men to seek security and repose in the
absolute power of an Individual: and sooner or later the chief of some prevailing
faction more able or more fortunate than his competitors, turn this disposition to the
purposes of his own elevation, on the ruins of Public Liberty…” – George
Washington’s Farewell Address, September 19, 1796
“The greatest dangers to liberty lurk in insidious encroachments by men of zeal, well-
meaning but without understanding.” – U.S. Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis,
1928

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 “All, too, will bear in mind this sacred principle, that though the will of the majority
is in all cases to prevail, that will to be rightful must be reasonable; that the minority
possess their equal rights, which equal law must protect, and to violate would be
oppression.” – Thomas Jefferson
George Washington warns us about ‘a frightful despotism’. His concern is for a group or individual
seeking security while sacrificing Public Liberty. Justice Brandeis also warns that well meaning
men of zeal is a great danger to liberty. Thomas Jefferson said that the will to be right must be
reasonable, and that the minority must possess equal rights. These people were not alone.
We do not need to look far for reasons why our Founding Fathers were concerned with a balance
between the people and the individual. History, even our own, is filled with examples of the tyranny
of the majority. The majority has often been brutal to minorities or those not sympathetic to the
prevailing opinion. Consider the history of the Anglican Church of England, people choose either
persecution or conversion. In our recent history we see the abusive will of the people. The majority
supported slavery, McCarthyism, and a lack of basic civil rights because of sex or race.
This weighted heavily upon the minds of our Forefathers. They considered history, England’s,
Europe’s and theirs (ours). On their minds was the harassment and persecution of the few by the
many. Some were of the wrong faith; others did not agree popular views. Included in our
Constitution is protection for all people, including the minority and unpopular views. The reasons
for these protections are clear. How fine is the line between the majorities opinion and mob rule?
Majority rule can, if not checked, be brutal. This is the ‘Tyranny of Democracy’. Recognizing that
opinions, convictions and views come and go, our founding documents are framed in such a way as
to ensure the voice of the people would be heard. At the same time making it difficult to change,
remove or limit our rights and personal liberties should those same voices begin to decry the very
reasons this country was founded. These freedoms and liberties should transcend passing fads and
the whim of an unpredictable majority.

Wasn’t our country founded on Christianity?

On November 4, 1796 toward the end of George Washington’s term in office the preliminary Treaty
of Tripoli was signed. The treaty was submitted to Congress in 1797, endorsed by Timothy
Pickering, Secretary of State, and John Adams now president. It was approved by the Senate on
June 7, 1797, ratified, signed by John Adams on June10, 1797, and published in the Philadelphia
Gazette on June 17, 1797 without any concern or controversy. These treaties as all treaties are
considered U.S. Law (see the U.S. Constitution, Article VI, Sect. 2 …all Treaties made, or which
shall be made, under the Authority of the United States, shall be the supreme Law of the Land; and
the Judges in every State shall be bound thereby). What may be of note and pertain to this
discussion is Article 11 of the treaty that states:
“As the Government of the United States of America is not, in any sense, founded on
the Christian religion; as it has in itself no character of enmity against the laws,
religion, or tranquillity, of Musselmen; and as the said States never have entered into
any war or act of hostility against any Mehomitan nation, it is declared by the parties
that no pretext arising from religious opinions shall ever produce an interruption of
the harmony existing between the two countries.”

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This as U.S. law seems clear that this country is not founded upon the Christian religion. Yet not
only is this seldom discussed but different religious opinions have clearly added to tensions.
Nevertheless, nearly all of our Founding Fathers were Christian men, some even preachers. An
argument may be made that some of our founding principles are based in Christianity. George
Washington said in his Farewell Address that:
“both reason and experience forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in
exclusion of religious principle” – George Washington
While George Washington felt that, we should not expect national morality without religious
principle he also stated:
"If I could now conceive that the general government might ever be so administered
as to render the liberty of conscience insecure, I beg you will be persuaded, that no
one would be more zealous than myself to establish effectual barriers against the
horrors of spiritual tyranny, and every species of religious persecution… [E]very
man, conducting himself as a good citizen, and being accountable to God alone for
his religious opinions, ought to be protected in worshipping the Deity according to the
dictates of his own conscience." – George Washington
As previously stated and also clear from George Washington’s our Founding Fathers sought
a balance between the will of the people and the protection of our liberties. The First
Amendment guarantees the free exercise of religion. It also states that “Congress shall make
no law respecting an establishment of religion…”). It was important at the founding of our
country that we should have both freedom of and freedom from religion.
“That no man shall be compelled to frequent or support any religious worship, place,
or ministry whatsoever, nor shall be enforced, restrained, molested or burthened in his
body or goods, nor shall otherwise suffer, on account of his religious opinions or
belief; but that all men shall be free to matter of religion, and that the same shall in no
wise diminish, enlarge, or effect their civil capacities.” – Thomas Jefferson
John Witherspoon, a Presbyterian minister and signer of the Declaration of Independence advocated
religious liberty. He stressed that complete freedom to worship how one chose or not at all was the
only proper plan for a republic.
John Leland, a Baptist pastor, friend of Jefferson and Madison, was a candidate against James
Madison until he was assured that the ratification of the Constitution would be followed by the Bill
of Rights and separation of Church and State.
The list can go on; however, it is clear that our Founding Fathers meant that freedom of religion also
meant freedom from religion.

What then is a Good American?

Tolerance, equality and religious freedoms are part of American liberties. Freedom of speech,
freedom of assembly, and respect for other’s rights are all things that make a good American. These
are why our Forefathers fought and died. This is what sets us apart. America should be and is the
home of the free and the brave. Both our rights and our liberties are our heritage as Americans.

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Christian rights and duties.
If tolerance, equality and freedom are all American rights what is one suppose to do when Christian
views conflict? As Christians, we disagree among ourselves, so disagreement between Christian and
non-Christian is not only inevitable but can also lead to very passionate conflicts. We have heard
calls for intolerance, racism and even virtual genocide from supposed Christian and other religious
people. The questions and the conflicts go on. What should a Christian do? How do we deal with a
secular world and a tolerant form of government? A Christian’s source of faith and beliefs comes
from the Holy Bible. It is here we will turn for answers. First, however, let us look at our religious
freedoms and rights regarding how, when and where we worship. How do these rights and liberties
affect us?

I have the right to worship when I want, where I want and how I want!
The ‘Bill of Rights’ (as they are popularly known) are the first ten amendments to the Constitution
of the United States. The first amendment guarantees freedom of religion. It states “Congress shall
make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof;…”
This First Amendment right is often used to defend religious actions such as prayer in schools etc…
No, we are not going to discuss prayer in schools here but rather the question of rights.
Most of us would agree that we do not have the right to enter a mosque or synagogue and start
preaching; likewise, we do not have the right to enter someone’s home late at night and conduct a
religious service. These actually seem laughable yet we have probably all heard the argument ‘I
have the right to worship how and where I want’. Nevertheless, as you can easily see from a few
examples this is not the case. Most of us have come to understand and agree that we do not have the
right to take away or limit another’s Constitutional Rights, the exception being with due process of
law (see the U.S. Constitution 14th Amendment).
The question then is not ‘Do I have the right to worship when, where, and how I want’. The
question should be when, where, and how do I have the right to worship. We have the right to the
free exercise of our religion. This right however is limited to the understandable acceptance and
exercise of another’s right to do the same. Additionally our right is further limited insomuch that we
have no right to impose our religion upon another.

Why should we (as Christians) obey the laws of man?

(Romans 13:1-3, 5-7) Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities.
For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by
God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they
who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. For rulers are not a
cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of
authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; […] Therefore it
is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience'
sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting
themselves to this very thing. Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due;
custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. (NAS95)

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 (Titus 3:1) Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be
ready for every good deed, (NAS95)
(1 Peter 2:13-15) Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every human institution,
whether to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as sent by him for the
punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right. For such is the will of
God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men. (NAS95)
Paul says in the both the book of Titus and Romans to be subject to principalities and obey
magistrates. Peter states that we should submit ourselves to every ordinance of man. We are to pray
for our civil leaders (1 Timothy 2:1,2) and pay taxes (Romans 13:6,7). God does not say obey these
men and laws because of their faith. Without digressing, most theologians agree there are
exceptions (cf Acts 5:29) if we are required to act against our conscience or commit an immoral act.
If taken strictly as true, we can stay true and moral to ourselves without infringing the rights of
another. Sometimes we need to make the distinction between our acts and the acts of the rest of the
world. We obey the laws of man because God tells us to; to resist authority is opposed to the
ordinance of God. The real question is how do we conduct ourselves and stay good Christians.

Do I have to obey the laws of man if it is contrary to God’s commands?

(Acts 5:29) But Peter and the apostles answered, "We must obey God rather than
men. (NAS95)
Peter declared quite simply “We must obey God rather than men.” Additionally if you read the
previous verses,
(Acts 5:27-28) When they had brought them, they stood them before the Council. The
high priest questioned them, saying, "We gave you strict orders not to continue
teaching in this name, and yet, you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and
intend to bring this man's blood upon us." (NAS95)
we see that this includes religious leaders as well as secular leaders. Even though God commands us
to obey the laws of man, there are exceptions. The question then, is how to apply the exceptions and
how are they limited. Undoubtedly, it applies to the individual if conflict arises between laws given
to us by a man (authority) and laws given to us by God. Other questions would include how we
interact with the rest of the world and/or how we apply this to the rest of the world.

God commands us to teach and make disciples of nations.

(Matthew 28:19-20) "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing
them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to
observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of
the age." (NAS95)
(Acts 1:8) but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and
you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even
to the remotest part of the earth." (NAS95)
Yes, God commands us to make disciples of nations. Now we ask the question, how should we
teach, witness and make disciples? Let us continue to look in the book of Matthew and Peter for
answers.

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 (Matthew 5:14-16) "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be
hidden; "nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand,
and it gives light to all who are in the house. "Let your light shine before men in such
a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
(NAS95)
(1 Peter 2:12) Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing
in which they slander you as evildoers, they may because of your good deeds, as they
observe them, glorify God in the day of visitation. (NAS95)
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus Christ told us how to teach and spread the word. Put simply a
good Christian can do this by living a good example so that “they may see your good works”. Peter
states to “Keep your behavior excellent”.

But wait, some of these so-call life styles are diametrically opposed to a
Christian way of life.
Yes, some will be different if not completely opposite to our way of thinking. How are we supposed
to live with or among people so radically different? Let us see what Paul said to the Church of
Corinth.
(1 Corinthians 5:9-11) I wrote you in my letter not to associate with immoral people;
I did not at all mean with the immoral people of this world, or with the covetous and
swindlers, or with idolaters, for then you would have to go out of the world. But
actually, I wrote to you not to associate with any so-called brother if he is an immoral
person, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or a swindler--not even
to eat with such a one. (NAS95)
Paul states earlier not to associate with certain kinds of people. Nevertheless, to whom was he
referring? Clearly, in v11 he is referring to ‘so-called brothers’. Paul’s comment in v10 states the
only way not to associate with sinners is to leave the world. Paul says not to associate with a ‘so-
called brother’ yet also says we must live in a world of sinners. Else, to whom would we witness?

I know these people are wrong; they have to change their ways?
We might like them to, nevertheless, no they don’t! Above we are told to be a good example and let
our lives serve as a testament. In addition, Paul states, we will have to associate with sinners. It
does not say to impose our rules upon them. Do we have the right to say they are wrong? Do we as
Christians have the right to determine right and wrong for another? Let us look at what both Paul
and Jesus Christ say:
(Matthew 7:1-2) "Do not judge so that you will not be judged.”For in the way you
judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to
you. (NAS95)
(1 Corinthians 5:12-13) For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Do you not
judge those who are within the church? But those who are outside, God judges…
(NAS95)

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 (Philippians 2:3-5) Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility
of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look
out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Have this
attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, (NAS95)
Paul states in v 1 Corinthians 5:9ff that we have to associate with sinners, then goes on to ask what
business is it of him to judge those outside the church. He states we have no right to judge other
people. Jesus Christ warns not to judge or we too will be judged. (cf 1 Peter 2:12) We are warned
not to act in conceit, rather to regard others as more important than ourselves. We are Christians; we
should obey the laws of man and spread the word where we can. Nevertheless, we are not to judge,
but rather, be considerate of others. Remember we are all sinners; the difference is that only some
are saved.

Okay we all are sinners, I have to associate with them, but do I have to like
them?
Again, let us see what Jesus Christ says in Matthew and Luke:
(Matthew 5:44) "But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who
persecute you, (NAS95)
(Luke 6:35-37) "But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in
return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He
Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men. "Be merciful, just as your Father is
merciful. "Do not judge, and you will not be judged; and do not condemn, and you
will not be condemned; pardon, and you will be pardoned. (NAS95)
If we are to love our enemies, then surely we are to love all who are made in the image of God.
Again we are admonished not to judge or condemn but rather to forgive, love and do good hoping
for nothing in return.
(John 15:17) "This I command you, that you love one another. (NAS95)
(Romans 13:9) […] if there is any other commandment, it is summed up in this
saying, "YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF." (NAS95)
(Colossians 3:12) So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put
on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; (NAS95)
(Titus 3:2) to malign no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing every consideration for
all men. (NAS95)
(1 Peter 2:16-17) […] not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but use it as
bondslaves of God. Honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.
(NAS95)
(1 John 4:7) Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone
who loves is born of God and knows God. (NAS95)
To often today we see and hear people claiming to be good Christians yet judging, condemning, and
yes even making malicious comments. Some even resort to violence, using God as a defense and
reason. Above we are told to obey man’s laws, we should make note that immediately following
that we are told how to act. Paul says to speak evil of no man. The Bible tells us specifically not to

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use our liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, to honor all men and love brotherhood, to show
compassion, kindness, gentleness and patience. Our God commands us to be gentle and show
meekness to all men. Intolerance, being judgmental and hatred are not part of a Christian’s life. We
should be wary of those trying to rally others to such causes.

Shouldn’t we just make our Government Christian (faith) based?

How does one answer that? To put it bluntly this paper assumes one wants to be a good American
and a good Christian. We assume that there is a dedication and belief in the foundations of the
United States of America. The Constitution is something we believe in. We assume support for
America and do not suffer lightly anyone attempting to overthrow America, its government or its
constitution. Does this sound harsh? It should! Take responsibility and take care not to say some
things lightly. Many sons and fathers have fought and died for the freedoms and liberties that some
today seem so ready to dispense with.
Now let us try to answer the question, first from a theological view, then from a practical view.
(Proverbs 8:15-17) "By me kings reign, And rulers decree justice. "By me princes
rule, and nobles, All who judge rightly. "I love those who love me; And those who
diligently seek me will find me. (NAS95)
(John 18:36) Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were
of this world, then My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over
to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm." (NAS95)
As shown above both Paul (in Romans) and Peter (in 1st Peter) say we should submit to local
authorities as this is the will of God. These are not church authorities but rather government
authorities. Proverbs and Romans further state that this authority is from God. There is a clear
statement to obey this local (non-church) authority. Paul in his letter to the Church of Corinth (noted
above) made a distinction between brothers within the Church and non-brothers. Here as above, in
each case, there is a distinction of authority. Paul and Peter (cff 1 Peter 5) discuss how Church
brethren act toward each other and John states quoting Jesus, “My kingdom is not of this world”.
All of these examples support two distinct spheres or worlds. One is a spiritual authority while the
other a temporal one. The temporal authority of the state is one of a civil and legislative nature.
Repeatedly we see from a theological position the Bible and God separates these two spheres of
influence and authority. However, the Christian lives in both of these worlds. We are told to follow
our beliefs and spread the word (cf Matthew 28:18-20) of God yet we live in a world of sinners.
Now let us consider it from a practical position. Which Christian faith (religion) should we choose?
Should we take the most tolerant and liberal or the most intolerant and conservative? Perhaps we
should consider a moderate view causing controversy on all sides of most issues. Some believe that
homosexual ministers are acceptable and same sex marriages are fine. Others are outraged there is
even discussion on the subject. Some do not believe in abortion and others believe that any form of
birth control goes against the natural order and God. While we do not discuss these often, we even
see more radical Christians voicing calls for racism, sexism etc… We have all heard them, we all
know of these opinions and some of us, know these people.
Even devout Christians cannot agree. How then would a Christian society work? Let us not forget
the tyranny of majorities or the history of the last two thousand years. Persecuting people in the
name of God, in the 1500s how many were tortured to gain confessions and conversions. You could

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loose you job or office because being Christian was not good enough, you had to choose the right
faith. We often forget these lessons and yet, there are still lessons to learn.
Recently I posed the question of a Christian Government to two ordained and practicing Christian
ministers. Both, during the conversation agreed it would not be a sound idea. Yet, initially the
prospect seemed enticing. In both conversations, we limited ourselves to mainstream Christian
faiths. This make believe world seemed nice at first. During one conversation the question arose,
‘how many churches would you close’, his response was of course ‘None’. Yet after more
conversation and discussing the Catholic faith, himself being a devote Calvinist, he noted ‘well,
maybe I would close those (Catholic Churches)’. In a separate conversation, discussing some of the
more modern views (i.e. mainstream Christian faiths such as Episcopalians and gays), another
minister stated the only Christian society he would support is ‘one where they do it [his] way’.
Consider the phrase “You cannot ‘legislate’ morality”, or even more disturbing consider the phrase
“For those who say I can't impose my morality on others, I say just watch me.”. Does forcing
someone to live a lifestyle of your choosing cause him or her to believe in God or think your version
of God and faith are right? Have you changed anyone’s belief? Assuming we are not perfect, and
there are many views on Christianity what if we are wrong in just a few suppositions. What would it
accomplish by forcing someone to live according to your will? What world would you create, what
world would you have us live in, and if this is your will… then what? Should other Christians
submit themselves to another form of Christianity or another’s Christian morals? If so, as soon as
you dictate what we should believe, would not it then be the duty of other Christians to change
legislation to favor them? Drive down the road, take a look at all the different churches, synagogues
and mosques then consider how many would not exist in a society based on your Christian beliefs.
Perhaps rather than have our focus on telling others how to live and that only we know God’s will,
we should focus on how God wants us to live. Perhaps it is actually a good idea that so many beliefs
can live together. Perhaps,… it is actually better being in a country with such freedoms and
protections.

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Summary
Our American Forefathers believed all men are created equal and Christians believe all are created in
the image of God. Guaranteed to us by our forefathers are our rights, these include religious
freedom, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness only to name a few. Our laws also protect these rights.
Our nation (contrary to what we hear today) is a nation built on different beliefs and tolerance. To
be a good American we need to be tolerant of others, respecting their rights especially when we
disagree, giving to them at least as much as we expect. To be a good Christian requires nothing less,
but rather much more.
A Christian has certain duties. The bible tells us some of these duties are.
Obey the laws of Man: Romans 13:1-3, 5-7; Titus 3:1; 1 Peter 2:13-15
To respect temporal authority Proverbs 8:15-17; John 18:36
Make disciples of nations: Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8
That we must live in a world with sinners: 1 Corinthians 5:9-11
Live by example and to keep your behavior excellent: Matthew 5:14-16; 1 Peter 2:12
Do not judge others: Matthew 7:1-2; 1 Corinthians 5:12-13
Do not act in selfishness or conceit: Philippians 2:3
Do not look to your own interest but the interest of others: Philippians 2:4
Love all, including your neighbors and your enemies: Matthew 5:44; Luke 6:35-37;
John 15:17; Romans 13:9;1 John 4:7
To show compassions, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, being peaceable and
show considerations for all men: Colossians 3:12; Titus 3:2
Nowhere does God say to set ourselves above others. Additionally it does not say to impose
ourselves upon another. We should live our lives not to judge but rather to love even our enemies,
not to condemn but to be peaceable. We should not to be malicious, rather be gentle, not to speak
evil of any man and to honor all men. We are to spread His word, and we do this by being a
testament and good example. This is the true calling of all, right-thinking Christians.
We may not like all of the opinions we hear today. We may not agree with another’s views or
lifestyles. Nevertheless, a life of intolerance goes against the American way and our God. After
careful consideration, a good Christian is a good American. American freedoms and liberties do not
conflict with Christian views.
I am glad I live in a country that allows such freedoms. These freedoms are not only for me, but also
for my family. This is a freedom to believe, worship and live how we choose; and a freedom not to
worship if we choose. These are freedoms, that should be, without persecution or harassment. I am
proud to be a Christian and both happy and proud to be an American.
May God bless and protect America (even from ourselves).

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