Revisiting July 4th 1776

America has a long and distinguished history that patriotic Americans revisit every Independence Day, celebrating with family, friends, feasts, and fireworks. We must examine our past to understand the biblical justification for America's independence.

Motivated by shocking ideologies, the acceptance of historical revisionism is on the rise at an alarming rate. We need to educate and reeducate the populace to ensure that we keep our freedoms. Patriots must explore creative ways to help others rediscover the foundational truths of America. I choose the most untapped resource for finding the answers—God's word.

The Bible best explains the justification of America's independence from its tyrannical king. Yet, some teachers use the Bible to teach that rebelling against a government is never justified by its subjects. According to them, the government's subjects are to "be subject" and never "resist the power."

"Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God…" (Romans 13:1-2a).

Were the founding fathers rebelling against God when they sought to rebel against the injustices of the king of England? Some teach that citizens of a country are to subject themselves to all institutions of government. They are to subject themselves regardless of their leaders' usurpation of authority and violation of God-given rights. Yet, as the passage continues, God's word provides the context and the clarity.

"For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, ...