Yet, even though the Founders openly acknowledged their veneration for Judaism, they nonetheless believed that the teachings of Christ provided the greatest benefit for civil society. Thomas Jefferson explained: The precepts of philosophy, and of the Hebrew code, laid hold of actions only. He Jesus pushed his scrutinies into the heart of man; erected his tribunal in the region of his thoughts, and purified the waters at the fountain head.
Zephaniah Swift similarly explained: Indeed moral virtue is substantially and essentially enforced by the precepts of Christianity, and may be considered to be the basis of it. But in addition to moral principles, the Christian doctrines inculcate a purity of heart and holiness of life which constitutes its chief glory. When we contemplate it in this light, we have a most striking evidence of its superiority over all the systems of pagan philosophy, which were promulgated by the wisest men of ancient times. Jefferson and Swift and numerous others; see Chapter 17 present a compelling argument.
Civil law and most religions focuses on stopping the act of murder, yet Christianity focuses on stopping the hate and anger which causes the murder. Similarly, the law and most religions try to prevent the act of adultery, but Christianity attacks the internal lust which results in that external behavior. The strongest civil code is impotent against malicious behavior unless the heart itself can be restrained, and even Benjamin Franklin joined Thomas Jefferson two of the least religiously orthodox Founders in believing that the teachings of Christianity best accomplished that goal.
Does this mean that the Founders opposed pluralism? No as long as the beliefs of other religions did not manifest in violent or deviant behavior which might threaten the stability of civil society. In fact, the Founders believed that pluralism survived only within the concept of religious liberty espoused by American Christianity.
David Barton said attend church knowing that you have an opportunity to worship God with many people. But also, make it a priority to worship individually.
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