Americans are in the season of celebrating the birthdays of two of our nation’s greatest leaders. As we do so, it is worth noting that it is not by accident they both viewed their spiritual lives as core of who they were, and their purpose in life.
While intellectuals and self-seeking revisionists wish they could rewrite the role of Christianity in both the founding and growing of our nation, they might pause to read a recent article by Bill Federer. The discussion he presents centers on the seminal works of Montesquieu. He was a political philosopher in France who greatly influenced leaders of the 18th century, including our founding fathers.
Of particular interest today, Montesquieu surveyed the history of governments, and sought to categorize those in existence in his time. He described three basic types:
Republics
Monarchs
Despots
The real genius of this philosopher’s analysis lies in his understanding of the nature of man. He clearly believed each of us is inherently selfish, and given the opportunity, anyone would be likely to seek power and despotic rule. With a detailed rationale, he explains why nations operating under Christian principles would remain free and enlightened. At the same time, he points to how the teachings of Muhammad would lead his followers to be despotic in their form of governance.
Ironically, as we see today, 300 years after his insights, the less America shows its Christian roots, the more we see encroaching immorality and big government, nanny-like regulation. Likewise, nearly a third of the countries of the world living under despotic rulers are Muslim-majority in population. Moreover, 8 of the 10 most dangerous countries globally are under Islamic law.
Why It Matters
As our leaders and secular humanists ignore facts and place hope in man’s ability to find good solutions to the problems of life, it is worth looking at history. Although there have been rare times of peace, there are always nations led by despots that seek to exert control over others. Likewise, our best bet to remain a country of individual rights and freedoms is ensuring that Christian principles are at the root of our worldview.
No, this is not an argument for theistic government controlled by religion. Rather, it is a reminder of the value of a government being run by men and women who are, themselves, committed to the teachings of service, and humility demonstrated by our Savior.
Take Action
Elections have consequences, and the coming elections are an opportunity to show those who seek to assume the mantle of leadership that we do, indeed, desire for them to continue in the style and substance of our Founding Fathers. As politicians and leaders are increasingly emboldened to distance themselves from Christian teachings, we must seek out and support those who are uncompromising in this area.
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