Is the U.S. a Christian Nation?

Is the U.S. a Christian Nation?

In a 2007 interview with beliefnet.com, John McCain stated that “the Constitution established the United States of America as a Christian nation.” While some were encouraged by McCain's words, others took great offense, reigniting a passionate debate about the intentions of America’s founders. Was the U.S. built on Christian principles, or are we a purely secular nation?

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Regarding Argument
The Father of the Constitution Agreed
- From William Martin PhD
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By William Martin, Ph.D. - Baker Institute, Rice University
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  • obrienr
    John Jay referred to the U.S. as a Christian nation

    John Jay, who is as much of a founding father as Madison, wrote the following to John Murray:

    "It certainly is very desirable that a pacific disposition should prevail among all nations. The most effectual way of producing it, is by extending the prevalence and influence of the gospel. Real Christians will abstain from violating the rights of others, and therefore will not provoke war.

    Almost all nations have peace or war at the will and pleasure of rulers whom they do not elect, and who are not always wise or virtuous. Providence has given to our people the choice of their rulers, and it is the duty, as well as the privilege and interest, of our Christian nation to select and prefer Christians for their rulers." (The Life of John Jay p. 376)

    http://books.google.com/books?id=eCMWAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA376&dq =%22our+Christian+nation+to+select+and+prefer+Christians+for+their+rulers%22#PPA376,M1

    - obrienrUS October 11, 2008 8:49PM

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  • Dr Paul S Vickery
    Dr. Paul S. Vickery
    Dr. Paul S. Vickery, Ph.D., is a professor of History, Humanities and Government at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and also an ordained United... More

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