Recognizing the Faith and Sacrifice of Our Founders in the Fight for Freedom
As we gather to celebrate Independence Day, it’s essential to reflect on the historical and spiritual significance of this national holiday. The Fourth of July is more than fireworks, barbecues, and parades; it is a day to remember the birth of our nation and the profound principles that shaped the Declaration of Independence. Among these principles, the influence of biblical teachings stands out as a cornerstone of our nation’s foundation.
The Biblical Inspiration Behind the Declaration
In today’s culture, where some people are frantically trying to erase America’s history, it is crucial to acknowledge that the signers of the Declaration of Independence clearly revealed their faith and sacrifice to ensure that this nation was founded upon Judeo-Christian principles and religious freedom. The Declaration, adopted on July 4, 1776, asserted the thirteen American colonies’ right to self-governance. Thomas Jefferson, its principal author, drew from various sources of inspiration, including Enlightenment thinkers and, notably, the Bible.
One of the most significant biblical influences is evident in the Declaration’s assertion that “all men are created equal” and “endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights.” This language reflects the biblical teaching that every human being is made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and possesses inherent dignity and worth. The idea that rights are God-given, rather than granted by a government, underscores the belief in a higher moral law that governs human affairs.
The Role of Providence in America’s Founding
A few months before signing the Declaration, Patrick Henry, a Founder who served as the first and sixth post-colonial governor of Virginia, addressed the Virginia Convention and declared: “We are not weak if we make a proper use of those means which the God of nature hath placed in our power. The millions of people, armed in the holy cause of liberty, and in such a country as that which we possess, are invincible by any force which our enemy can send against us. Besides, sir, we shall not fight our battle alone. There is a just God who presides over the destinies of nations, and who will raise up friends to fight our battles for us. The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave.”
The Declaration of Independence also acknowledges the role of divine Providence, a term used to describe God’s guidance and care over the universe. The signers expressed a “firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence,” indicating their belief that God was actively involved in the birth of the nation and would continue to guide its future. This reliance on God’s providence is consistent with the biblical narrative, where individuals and nations seek God’s guidance and protection in times of uncertainty and struggle. The founders’ trust in divine guidance reflects a deep-seated faith that was integral to the American spirit.
The Sacrifice of the Signers
John Hancock, the presiding officer over the Second Continental Congress, became the first representative to sign the Declaration on July 4, 1776. Hancock left a sizable signature which started the modern-day idea of leaving a “John Hancock” on paperwork. In fact, according to a popular saying, he signed his name large so that King George could read it without his glasses. While that may or may not be true, it is factual that one of America’s most ardent patriots put his life on the line with that signature. If the Revolutionary War was lost or he was caught, Hancock would have been hanged by the British. Yet Hancock said, “Principally and first of all, I give and recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it: and my body I recommend to the earth. Nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mercy and power of God.”
All 56 patriots who signed the Declaration took their duties so seriously to the people of the new nation that they made a promise “with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor.” They signed the Declaration of Independence knowing that the penalty would be death if they were captured, and that pledge could literally cost them their lives and fortunes.
As a result, 17 men lost property due to British raids and 12 had homes destroyed. Five lost their fortunes in helping fund the Continental Army and state militias battle the redcoats. Five were captured by the British as traitors and tortured before they died. One had two sons imprisoned on a British starving ship, one had a son killed in battle, one had his wife die from harsh prison treatment, and nine signers died in the Revolutionary War.
Liberty Counsel Founder and Chairman Mat Staver said, “The Founders were deeply influenced by a Judeo-Christian worldview that gave them great courage to sacrifice everything in order to establish this great nation. However, for many of them, signing America’s birth certificate was their own death sentence. Yet they knew that our rights come from God, not government, and that the sole purpose of government is to protect these inalienable rights whatever the cost. As we celebrate America’s birthday, we must continue to protect the priceless gift of our religious freedom and never forget the cost that was paid for it.”
A Call to Remember and Reaffirm Our Faith
As we celebrate this Independence Day, it’s crucial to remember the biblical principles that influenced our nation’s founders and the creation of the Declaration of Independence. In a time when the fabric of our society often seems stretched thin, reflecting on these foundational truths can provide a source of unity and strength.
The story of America’s independence is not just a historical event but a testament to the enduring power of faith and the belief in a just and moral order. As we enjoy the festivities, let us also take a moment to pray for our nation, its leaders, and its people. May we seek God’s wisdom and guidance in all that we do, reaffirming the biblical values that have shaped our history and will continue to light our path forward.
Happy Independence Day from all of us at THRIVE! News. May God bless you and the United States of America.
