The question of whether the United States is a “Christian nation” is complex and multifaceted. There are several key considerations when examining this issue from a biblical perspective:
1. The U.S. Constitution and Founding Documents
The Constitution and other founding documents of the U.S. do not explicitly establish Christianity or any religion as the official faith of the nation. The First Amendment states “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” This separation of church and state allows for religious freedom.
However, many founding fathers were Christians and their biblical values influenced the founding principles of America. While not officially or legally a Christian nation, Christianity had a strong cultural influence on early America.
2. Religious Demographics
Throughout most of U.S. history, the majority of citizens identified as Christian. Currently, about 65% of Americans identify as Christian, down from 85% in 1990. America has always been religiously diverse, but Christianity has maintained the largest plurality.
So while demographically Christian, the percentages show America as both diverse and becoming less predominantly Christian over time.
3. Individual vs. Institutional Christianity
The Bible focuses more on individuals living out their faith rather than top-down institutional Christianity being enforced by the government. Passages like Matthew 28:19-20 discuss the Great Commission to “go and make disciples of all nations” through grassroots spreading of the Gospel, not political force.
So while individual citizens may embrace Christianity, the Bible does not necessarily endorse formal establishment of Christianity as a state religion. America has a “free market” of religion with faith being a personal choice.
4. Moral and Cultural Influence
While America may not be a formally Christian nation, its government, morals, culture, and worldview have undoubtedly been shaped by centuries of strong Christian influence. Things like respect for human rights and dignity, care for the poor and vulnerable, and values of justice and equality have strong biblical roots.
So while Christianity may not define America in an official capacity, it has fundamentally shaped the national ethos and character.
5. Calling to Be Light and Salt
The Bible refers to believers as “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14) and calls them to be salt and light positively influencing culture (Matthew 5:13-16). Throughout history, Christians have worked to spread godly principles into institutions and cultures.
Rather than demanding an explicitly “Christian nation,” Christians can continue being salt and light in America by living out their faith in daily life and work, spreading Christ-centered values in society.
6. All Nations Will Be Judged
The Bible warns that God will judge all nations, not just specifically “Christian” ones (Psalm 9:17, 96:13). And individuals from every nation, tribe and language will be present in heaven (Revelation 7:9). A nation’s faith cannot save it, only the faith of individual people.
Thus, debates over America’s status as a “Christian nation” are less important than spreading the Gospel far and wide, calling all people from all nations to faith in Jesus Christ.
7. Focus on the Heavenly Kingdom
The Bible constantly reminds believers that their true citizenship is in heaven, not earthly nations (Philippians 3:20, Ephesians 2:19). Christians’ ultimate hope is found in the coming Kingdom of God that will make all things new.
Attempting to make America or any nation into the perfect “Christian country” can lead believers to misplace their priorities. The mandate is advancing God’s Kingdom, not maintaining earthly ones.
8. Calling to Bless America
Even if America is not a “Christian nation,” Christians are called to pray for, honor, serve, and bless the nation where God has placed them (1 Timothy 2:1-3, Romans 13:1-7). Seeking the peace and prosperity of the land is important.
America has been blessed economically and politically. Christians should graciously labor to see those blessings used to care for the needy and spread the good news globally.
9. All Authority Comes from God
The Bible teaches that God ultimately raises up and allows all earthly authorities for His divine purposes (Daniel 2:21, Romans 13:1). Even if not explicitly Christian, governing authorities are used by God to maintain order and restrain evil.
Christians can have a charitable attitude toward America, though not formally Christian, knowing God has established its authorities for good and He is sovereign over all nations.
10. America Has a Complex Spiritual Heritage
The story of faith in America is complex, with both positive and negative aspects. There have been great revivals but also injustices done in the name of Christianity. Displays of Christian charity but also wars and oppression.
Rather than debate if America is or was ever a “Christian nation,” Christians should seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God to positively influence society (Micah 6:8).
In summary, while America may not be an officially Christian nation in its founding documents or current demographics, its cultural roots and moral landscape have undoubtedly been profoundly shaped by Christian influence. Yet believers’ focus should be on advancing God’s transnational Kingdom, not promoting an earthly nation. Christians are called to graciously serve whatever land God has placed them in as humble servants of King Jesus.