Biblical Origins of the Constitution

The Constitutional Convention of 1787 is regarded as a watershed point in American history when delegates from throughout the new nation assembled in Philadelphia to address the shortcomings of the Articles of Confederation and develop a better framework for governance. In his talk, David Barton provides insights into the Constitutional Convention and emphasizes the significance of understanding the Constitution in its historical and religious context (Barton, D., n.d). This essay will look at the issues that the Constitutional Convention participants encountered, God’s participation in the development of the Constitution, and the practical application of biblical ideas in modern American governance.

The Constitutional Convention of 1787

The Constitutional Convention of 1787 presented substantial obstacles that required careful consideration and compromise to overcome (Dougherty & Hitefield, 2023). The failure of the Articles of Confederation to provide a cohesive and functioning national government was the most serious of these issues. The new nation’s stability and development were jeopardized by its lack of central authority and ability to control commerce and taxation. Delegates to the Convention also dealt with contentious questions of representation, with large and small states pressing for different forms of government. The Virginia Plan, offered by James Madison, advocated for a bicameral legislature with population-based representation, but the New Jersey Plan intended to ensure equal representation for all states.

In resolving these problems, the Convention relied primarily on compromise and consensus building to obtain accords that would serve as the foundation for the new Constitution. The Connecticut Compromise, in particular, helped to establish a bicameral legislature that balanced the interests of major and small states, with proportionate representation in the House of Representatives and equal representation in the Senate. Furthermore, agreements on sensitive matters like the slave trade and taxation aided in bridging ideological gaps and securing widespread support for the Constitution.

Throughout the Convention’s discussions, many participants recognized the role of divine providence in influencing their decisions and shaping the conclusion. Benjamin Franklin’s appeal to prayer and reflection emphasized the spiritual aspect of the Convention’s work, reminding delegates of the importance of seeking wisdom and guidance from a higher force in their attempts to create a more perfect union.

The framers of the Constitution were inspired by a variety of sources, including classical philosophy, Enlightenment ideals, and Judeo-Christian beliefs. While the Constitution is a secular text that reflects Enlightenment ideas of reason and natural law, religious philosophy has influenced its moral and ethical basis (Barton, D., n.d).. Biblical ideals such as justice, liberty, and the rule of law influenced the framers’ understanding of governance and individual rights, contributing to the Constitution’s long-lasting legacy as a beacon of freedom and democracy.

Scriptural References in the Constitution

Scriptural references inherent in the Constitution highlight long-standing concepts important to governance and individual liberty. David Barton explains two such concepts, starting with the concept of just governance taken from Isaiah 33:22, which reads, “For the LORD is our judge, the LORD is our lawgiver, the LORD is our king; it is he who will save us.”(New International Version, 2024/1778). This passage depicts God as the ultimate authority—judge, lawgiver, and king—highlighting the divine foundation of administration and the importance of responsibility and fairness within human institutions. Similarly, Barton uses 2 Corinthians 3:17, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” (New International Version, 2024/1778), to explain the notion of individual liberty, emphasizing God’s inherent freedom as necessary for human dignity and moral autonomy, regardless of earthly authority.

In modern America, the principle of just governance, exemplified by the separation of powers, is being interpreted and used in new ways. The executive, legislative, and judicial branches continue to discuss topics such as executive orders, judicial activism, and congressional oversight, showing long-standing power struggles. Recent executive acts have increased presidential power, prompting questions about power balances and executive restrictions. Similarly, individual liberty, a pillar of American identity, faces modern obstacles such as monitoring techniques and data privacy issues. Balancing security imperatives with civil liberties remains a key issue, as seen by disputes about unwarranted monitoring, internet freedom, and digital privacy degradation. These issues highlight the continued importance of constitutional ideals in modern American culture.

Political Issues Based on the Ten Commandments

David Barton identifies the issue of abortion as one of the key political issues based on the principles of the Ten Commandments. From a biblical perspective, the commandment “You shall not murder,” as stated in Exodus 20:13 (New International Version, 2024/1778), directly addresses the value of human life and the prohibition against unjustified killing. This commandment underscores the sanctity of life from conception to natural death, emphasizing the inherent worth and dignity of every individual as a creation of God.

However, proponents of abortion rights argue for a woman’s autonomy over her body and reproductive choices, often invoking principles of personal liberty and bodily autonomy. This stance contends with the traditional interpretation of the commandment, proposing a nuanced understanding of moral agency and individual rights in complex medical and ethical situations.

One pertinent court case related to the issue of abortion is Roe v. Wade (1973). In this landmark decision, the U.S. Supreme Court legalized abortion nationwide by ruling that state laws banning or restricting abortion violated a woman’s constitutional right to privacy (Lewis, 2023). The Court’s decision, grounded in the Fourteenth Amendment’s Due Process Clause, established a woman’s right to choose abortion as a fundamental aspect of personal liberty protected under the Constitution. However, Roe v. Wade has been a subject of ongoing legal, political, and moral debate, with critics arguing that it wrongly prioritizes individual autonomy over the rights of the unborn.

Government Involvement in Meeting the Needs of the Poor

The Bible provides explicit guidance on supporting the poor, emphasizing the moral obligation to be compassionate and kind to those in need. Proverbs 19:17 (New International Version, 2024/1778) emphasizes this duty by portraying charitable activities as good deeds with heavenly meaning. In response to this biblical duty, communities, and churches have launched various poverty-reduction efforts (Reitsma, B., 2023). Local food banks work with volunteers and donations to give necessary groceries to low-income families, whereas homeless shelters provide temporary lodging and support services to people suffering from homelessness. Church-based outreach programs go beyond financial assistance to include spiritual instruction, emotional support, and community engagement possibilities. These initiatives empower individuals by providing career training, financial literacy seminars, and mentorship, allowing them to achieve long-term independence.

When comparing outcomes to government initiatives, nuanced disparities emerge. While government programs have more resources and institutional capabilities, they may struggle with bureaucracy and impersonality. Community and church-based efforts, on the other hand, provide individualized help while also promoting a sense of belonging. Studies show that community and church-based programs are effective at providing immediate comfort as well as overall support. These programs, which emphasize relationship-building and empowerment, help participants develop resilience and social integration. Furthermore, faith-based organizations promote compassion and dignity, instilling a feeling of shared responsibility in the community. Recognizing the complementarity of government and community activities is critical. Collaboration between the public, commercial, and non-profit sectors can result in more comprehensive and long-term solutions to poverty that respect the dignity of each individual.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Constitutional Convention of 1787 marks a critical juncture in American history, where delegates grappled with profound challenges to forge a stronger national government. Through compromise and consensus-building, they established a framework that endures to this day. Acknowledging the role of divine providence, the framers drew inspiration from diverse sources, including Judeo-Christian principles, evident in the Constitution’s moral foundations. Today, biblical principles continue to inform debates on governance, individual liberties, and pressing issues like abortion. Furthermore, community and church-based initiatives exemplify compassionate responses to poverty, offering personalized assistance and fostering resilience. By recognizing the complementarity of government and community efforts, society can strive for more inclusive and effective solutions, upholding the dignity of all individuals

References

Barton, D. (n.d.). The Constitution [Video]. Liberty University.

Dougherty, K. L., & Hitefield, A. A. (2023). The effects of the Great Compromise on the Constitutional Convention of 1787. American Politics Research. https://doi.org/10.1177/1532673×231220643

Lewis, A. R. (2023). Abortion. In Oxford University Press eBooks (pp. 474–492). https://doi.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780198844594.013.28

New International Version: The NIV bible translation. NIV Bible. (2024, February 5). https://www.thenivbible.com/ (Original work published 1778)

Reitsma, B. (2023). 1 Exclusion versus Inclusion: Searching for Religious Inspiration. In B. Reitsma & E. Nes-Visscher (Ed.), Religiously Exclusive, Socially Inclusive: A Religious Response (pp. 9–24). Amsterdam: Amsterdam University Press. https://doi.org/10.1515/9789048556434-002

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OVERVIEW
Before beginning this assignment, complete Watch: The Constitution – Part 1 and Watch: The Constitution – Part 2 as found in the Learn items for Module 1: Week 1. These presentations were recorded live at a convocation at Liberty University shortly before the election of 2008. Although David Barton refers to that election, the basic principles are valid at any time.
Almost 10 years later, David Barton appeared with Governor Huckabee to discuss the moral failure in the United States for taking God out of the public square. This interview – the Constitutional Christian – is divided into four parts

• America: Our Roots
• America and Divine Providence
• Removing God from America
• America: One Nation Under God

INSTRUCTIONS
Using the information from 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. You will include a title page, a reference page, one additional scholarly source not more than six months old, and at least three biblical references which include the full text of the scripture verse. Include the video presentations and the Bible in your reference list. These do not count as “additional sources”. Wikipedia, and similar sources, are not permitted. Do not simply write parts of Barton’s presentation verbatim.
As a reminder, collaborating with other students on this assignment or borrowing answers from other students’ work is considered plagiarism and will be treated as such.
1. Explain the problems confronting the Constitutional Convention in 1787, how they were addressed, and the role of God in the creation of the Constitution.
2. Barton gives several examples of scriptural references in the Constitution. Name any two principles, give the complete text of the applicable scripture, and explain how this constitutional principle does or does not, work in practice today. Give specific examples.
3. Barton gives four examples of political issues, based on the Ten Commandments, which receive God’s highest priority. Select any one political issue and discuss how it is either in or out of compliance with God’s law. Discuss a specific court case related to the political issue and the applicable commandment.
4. According to Barton’s presentation, the government should not be involved in meeting the needs of the poor. Cite a verse in the Bible that instructs us how to help the poor. Give an example of how you, your community, or your church serves the poor. Compare this to a similar government program. Who provides a better outcome to the recipient? Explain.