A 4th of July Reflection
Each year, on July 4th, we celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence, ever since 1776. While many of us grew up thinking of America as a “Christian Nation,” this isn’t quite the case. America was founded on the principle of religious freedom, not explicitly as a Christian nation. Let’s delve into a brief history of the United States to understand this better.
Early Exploration and Settlement
Viking and European Exploration
In the beginning, America as we know it wasn’t a thing. The land was first visited by Leif Erikson and the Vikings around 1000 CE, nearly five centuries before Christopher Columbus rediscovered it in 1492. However, long before these European explorers arrived, the land belonged to the Native Americans.
Spanish and Portuguese Settlements
Spanish and Portuguese explorers were among the first Europeans to settle in America, focusing mainly on Florida and California. It wasn’t until after 1600 that people from France, England, Holland, and Sweden began to settle in the Americas. The 13 colonies of America were established between the late 1500s and the 1600s.
Religious Freedom and Early Colonists
Seeking Religious Freedom
Some settlers came to the colonies seeking religious freedom. Many of the early English colonists were Puritans and other Protestants who wanted to reform or separate from the Church of England. Though a small group, mostly concentrated in the 13 colonies and Pennsylvania with the Quakers, came to the New World seeking freedom to observe their Protestant religion, the larger part of America’s early settlers were motivated by economic opportunities, i.e. the first capitalists.
The Path to Independence
British Colonization and American Resistance
The British sought to control the New World through colonization, as they did with many other countries. However, early Americans fought back and claimed independence as a country in 1776. In the 248 years since capitalism has exerted more influence than religion in America. The Constitution did not establish a national religion or endorse Christianity. The First Amendment states, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” In essence, there is no national religion, not even Christianity, and Americans are free to practice any religion or none at all.
The Founding Fathers and Religion
Diverse Religious Beliefs
Perhaps even more surprising is the fact that not all of the founding fathers were Christians; many were, but not all. They were a diverse group, with some being Christian, some Unitarian, and others deistic or theistic. Even Benjamin Franklin acknowledged Jesus as a “good moral teacher” while also drawing from the philosophies of Socrates.
Reflections on Freedom
The Reality of American Freedom
I used to think that America was a Christian nation, founded and rooted in Christianity. I truly have the deepest respect for military families, active duty, and veterans as our family is part of that group. I’m thankful for the freedoms we have in America. During lockdowns, many Americans fought hard against tyranny and for bodily autonomy. However, it is a double-edged sword where Christians are almost forced to accept the unbiblical to maintain their own freedom to worship openly. To me, this reality questions the perception of America as a truly Christian nation. One only has to look around to realize that we are engaged in a full-on spiritual battle, standing in a field of landmines. “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12). Despite the sovereignty of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the nation of America does not acknowledge Him.
True Freedom
Spiritual Freedom in Christ
While I celebrate the shadow of freedom, I know that the only true freedom we’ll ever have is that found in a relationship with God through our Lord and Messiah Jesus Christ. “It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1)
“For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself also will be set free from its slavery to corruption into the freedom of the glory of the children of God.” (Romans 8:20-22)
Parting Thoughts
I’ll leave you with this directive: “Act as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but use it as bondslaves of God.” (1 Peter 2:16)
What does true freedom mean to you? Do you believe America can be both a nation of religious freedom and uphold Christian values? Share your thoughts in the comments section.
References:
Vintage Virtues 
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