President Reagan’s Vision for America- A Comparison with Contemporary Leadership

President Reagan’s Vision for America- A Comparison with Contemporary Leadership

In the 2013 address to Liberty University, Tim Goeglein revealed the attack on Christianity in America; he then warned that the Christian foundation and moral values that went before are being eroded. However, the emergence of such threats did not only happen; it is intensifying over time. Hence, it required a review of how the principles and the virtues of preserving a liberal and righteous society are upheld. This work will review what President Reagan said about the nation compared to that of the current one, discuss the main attacks against Christian values that Goeglein writes about, explain why these attacks violate constitutional principles or commandments, consider the court cases that are influencing current religious freedom in America, and talk about Christians shaping the cultural direction of the country in the present.

Contrasting Presidential Outlooks: Reagan v. Contemporary Governance

Tim Goeglein brings three elements of President Reagan’s view of America to the fore: optimism, exceptionalism, and the deep-seated sense of optimism that permeates the entire country. Reagan believed passionately in the superiority of America and its role as a light of freedom and hope to the world (Goeglein, T., 2008). He saw the United States as a shining city upon a hill, as John Winthrop would run, which is also the source from which the nation should draw its direction in line with the Christian faith providing the light. Reagan’s optimism was based upon his conviction in American values and the belief in this nation’s people’s capability for greatness.

There are both parallels and divergences between the present president’s and Ronald Reagan’s philosophies when it comes to governing. Reagan was renowned for his unrelenting optimism and conviction in American greatness (Walsh, 2024). He highlighted the value of freedom, faith, and the notion that America is a shining city on a hill. On the other hand, the president in office right now might take a different tack and concentrate on various aspects of government. The current president prioritizes topics like social justice, climate change, and wealth inequality more than Ronald Reagan, who advocated for less government regulation (Human Rights Watch, 2024).

Second, Reagan’s foreign policy was distinguished by a persistent opposition to communism and a dedication to US leadership in international affairs. He promoted a strong military and an aggressive strategy to counter Soviet aggression as part of his goal of achieving peace through strength. In contrast, the present president’s foreign policy may emphasize multilateralism, diplomacy, and the sparing use of military action.

Lastly, on social issues, especially ones concerning religion and morality, Reagan had a divergent outlook on what the current administration would be seen to uphold. Reagan often used religious terms and even imagery when he spoke, portraying himself as a defender of traditional values and Christian principles (Congdon, 2024). The current president’s social policy generally entails a more diverse and tolerant approach mirroring society’s evolving notions and views. This could lead to varying standpoints by political figures on issues of LGBTQ+, abortion, and separation of the church and the state.

Challenges to Christian Foundations: Understanding Tim Goeglein’s Analysis

Tim Goeglein identifies three major attacks on the Christian foundations of America: redefining marriage, devaluing human life, and infringing on religious liberty. As for marriage,it is the same-sex marriage redefinition that threatens the typical Christian conception of marriage as a union of one man and one woman (Smith, 2024). This aligns with biblical teachings such as Genesis 2: 24, which indicates, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and cleave to his wife; and they shall be one flesh” (King James Version, 1769/2017). The verse emphasizes the biblical concept of marriage as a sacred union between a man and a woman.

In addition, Goelgein points out the matter of the devaluation of human lives, a process that is a consequence of the legalization of abortion. He says that mainly the decision of Roe v. Wade resulted in an increase in the number of abortions described as a “Holocaust” and also emphasizes the biblical principle life is to be sanctified. One relevant biblical passage is Psalm 139:13-14, which states, “You have made all my members; you have wired them up. I will extol you, for I am wonderfully made” (King James Version, 1769/2017). This passage underscores the intrinsic value of human life, even from conception, as compared to abortion practice.

Goeglein brings up the encroachment on religious liberty as he alerts fellow Christians on attempts to deprive Christians have the right to practice their beliefs freely in different areas of public life. God’s providence underlies the liberty of religion, and the government or any other institution should not violate such an inherent right (Bretherton, 2024). One pertinent biblical reference is Galatians 5: 1, which translates to, ” Christ thus set us free to be free; stand strong and steadfast therefore in the freedom from slavery” (King James Version, 1769/2017). This verse underscores the Christian belief in the importance of religious freedom, which is threatened by attempts to restrict the expression of faith in society.

One Supreme Court decision that legitimized an attack on the Christian foundations of America was the Roe v. Wade decision, rendered on January 22, 1973. In the Roe v. Wade decision, abortion was effectively legalized throughout the country, making it a challenge to traditional Christian doctrine, which sees the life of humans as sacred (Littlejohn, 2024). The Supreme Court ruled in Roe v. Wade that abortion is a constitutional right of a woman to have the privacy to choose abortion, which was highly controversial and has always been a subject of moral and legal scrutiny in the United States.

Examining Recent Court Cases in America’s Struggle to Uphold Christian Values

Tim Goeglein has drawn attention to the assault on religious liberty, which is illegal under both the First Amendment of the US Constitution and the biblical mandate to put God first. The First Amendment protects people’s right to practice any religion they choose, and it forbids the establishment of a state religion or any interference with exercising personal religion. This attack undermines the fundamental principle of religious freedom enshrined in the Constitution by infringing upon religious liberty through legal challenges against expressions of faith in public spaces or attempts to coerce individuals and organizations to act against their religious convictions. This core biblical tenet is violated by any effort to impose restrictions on people’s freedom to practice their religion and worship, which weakens the foundation of Christianity in the country.

Recent court cases highlight some of the current challenges to religious freedom and respecting Christian values. Fulton v. City of Philadelphia (2021) brought to the fore the dilemma faced by anti-discrimination policies and religious freedom when Philadelphia stopped referring their foster care placements to Catholic Social Services, a move meant to draw their attention to the agency’s refusal to work with same-sex couples. This case sheds light on the dilemma LGBTQ rights and religious beliefs raise news, which instills fears about the possibility of religious-oriented organizations’ marginalization.

Espinoza v. Montana Department of Revenue (2020) touched upon the issue of school choice and religious heritage. The Supreme Court determined that states cannot be denied scholarships from the state just because a private school is religious. It is an achievement of religious liberty’s proponents and a sign of the changing trend of religious accommodations of religious institutions in public programs.

Tandon v. Newsom (2021) sued California over its COVID-19 regulations on religious gatherings, which the Supreme Court ruled against in favor of the more lenient State-imposed limitations on in-home religious meetings. That case reinforces the judicial branch’s role in preserving religious freedom in public health emergencies and highlights the ongoing search for a balance between public health concerns and constitutional rights.

Christian’s Role in Shaping America’s Cultural Landscape

In light of my Christian belief, as a country faces major threats to the core of the Christian doctrine, there are opportunities for positive transformation. Ultimately, I can catalyze a change toward God’s glory in modern culture by participating in dialogue, cultivating understanding, and even supporting principles based on biblical values. These requisite attributes teach about the conduct in which one leads by example, shows love, compassion, and empathy to others, yet remains firm in faith and truth. It is possible to help others realize the critical role of Christian values in society that will glorify God and the underpayment of justice, compassion, and righteousness.

Conclusion

The pre-eminence of Christianity in the USA is at stake, though the chances for positive changes are impressive. Even though the current outlook seems challenging, Christians can be victorious in the conflict for the narrative of their nation by following biblical principles, participating in constructive dialogue, and advocating for religious freedom and moral righteousness. As we aspire to strive on with persevering faith, compassionate deeds, and unshaken dedication to the truth, we could touch the hearts and minds of others to practice virtues that bring glory to God and consequently lead to the establishment of Christian foundations and building of a just society oriented by freedom and service.

References

Bretherton, L. (2024). Anglican Political Theology. Anglican Theological Review. https://doi.org/10.1177/00033286231220585

Congdon, D. W. (2024). Who Is a True Christian?: Contesting Religious Identity in American Culture. Cambridge University Press.

Goeglein, T (2008). Liberty University presentation

Human Rights Watch. (2024, January 11). United States: Events of 2023. Human Rights Watch. https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2024/country-chapters/united-states

King James Bible. (2017). King James Bible Online. https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/ (Original work published 1769)

Littlejohn, K. E. (2024). Fighting Mad: Resisting the End of Roe v. Wade. Univ of California Press.

Smith, H. (2024, February 15). Greece becomes the first Orthodox Christian country to legalize same-sex marriage. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/feb/15/greece-becomes-first-orthodox-christian-country-to-legalise-same-sex-marriage

Walsh, K. T. (2024). The Architects of Toxic Politics in America: Venom and Vitriol. Taylor & Francis.

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Before beginning this assignment, complete Watch: Tim Goeglein – Part 1 and Watch: Tim Goeglein – Part 2. Goeglien discusses the attacks on Christianity during a live presentation at Liberty in 2013. The threats he addresses have not only become a reality but intensified. Goeglein highlights several constitutional principles that have been violated and have led to a decline in moral and virtuous behavior. As noted in Module 1 Week 1, for liberty to survive, we need virtuous leaders. You may also find it beneficial to review The Constitutional Christian.

President Reagan’s Vision for America- A Comparison with Contemporary Leadership

Instructions
Using the information in the presentations, and current issues in America today, you will write a 3 – 5 page essay in current APA format. Your essay will have an introduction, conclusion, and level headings. It will include a title page, a reference page, at least three additional sources not more than six months old, and at least three biblical references with their complete text. The additional sources may be a news article, a journal article, a recent court case, or a similar current event. Note the author and date of publication. Be sure to include the video presentations and Bible in your reference page. These do not count as “additional sources”. Wikipedia and similar sources are not acceptable. Do not simply write parts of Goeglein’s presentation verbatim.
As a reminder, collaborating with other students on this assignment or borrowing answers from other student’s work is considered plagiarism and will be treated as such.
1. According to Tim Goeglein, what was President Reagan’s outlook on America? How would you compare Reagan’s outlook with that of the current president? Compare or contrast three specific areas of governance.
2. Tim Goeglein discusses three major attacks on the Christian foundations of America. What are these major attacks? Provide at least one biblical reference, with the complete text of the verse, applicable to each attack. Name a Supreme Court decision that legitimized the attack and when it was rendered.
3. Select one of the attacks on the Christian foundations of our nation discussed in Question 2 and go into further detail: discuss which commandment or constitutional principle the attack violates, and the basis for the case. The attacks on Christianity in America continue to this day. Discuss three court cases, not more than five years old, that either reinforce the attack or demonstrate a fight to change direction.
4. After his presentation, Tim Goeglein discusses the job of the Christian in light of these attacks. Discuss whether or not you believe the country is moving in the right direction and how you as a Christian can help others understand how to change our culture to glorify God.