Christian Influence and American Media
September 10, 2007 – 2:39 PMOne of the most important civil liberties we enjoy is our freedom of speech and press. The historic basis for these freedoms is derived from the power of the pulpits in early American history,
Preaching in early America was the central issue in the Lord’s Day worship throughout most, if not all, of the 13 colonies. However, not all preaching was equally potent. New England preaching created ethical standards (not all good, by the way) which were adapted and copied throughout the other colonies to varying degrees.
Democracy in America
The classic work, Democracy in America, by the French visitor to America, Alexis d’Tocqueville, is one of the standard archives of early Americana that most reliable historians first consult. (The reason is that Alexis d’Tocqueville was a keen observer and showed deep insights into Christian influence upon society. He had no axe to grind and no apparent agenda. Though Roman Catholic by background, he was deeply moved by the empowerment of the Protestant ethic and its powerful use of the Bible as well as its impress upon the habits of Americans).
Alexis d’Tocqueville is one of many witnesses testifying to the effect of preaching in America, and especially, at first, in New England. As will be seen, his testimony will be joined to others concerning the power of preaching and its influence on what we now call media.
One such observation was summarized in a quote most often attributed to him. He said it was not until he went into the churches of America and saw pulpits aflame with righteousness, that he then understood the real strength of America.
He wrote:
America is great because America is good. If America ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.
Future posts will show the “story” of preaching in America and the dramatic rise of media as a result. Knowing such a history may help the church “see” better into her future. After all, history is not designed to teach us the past. It is designed to train us in wise principles for guiding and governing our future. – posted ICHR
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2 Responses to “Christian Influence and American Media”
When I look back through the lens of history I see a widespread abuse of “freedom of speech”; but I cannot find such abuses ever being peacefully corrected by the removal of this God-given right. So often it is found to be the case that people plunder their neighbor more conveniently when God-given rights (like freedom of speech) are stripped away.
Therefore, I have concluded that all the rhetoric surrounding the abuse of “freedom of speech” really comes down to the modern American people no longer accepting biblical principles; principles which give individuals the privileges (and liabilities) of their own actions – principles which are not based upon the dictates of men, but rather of God’s Word – Principles of self-government which reflect an absolute unchanging source of Law which man cannot strip away from us, unless abused according to that law given by God.
After all, the prophets had freedom of speech, and they certainly preached contrary to the Status quo of the community! How much more should all citizens around the world – especially the churches in America – maintain this God-given right?!
And what better way to re-form an unhealthy and spiteful abuse of power than to uphold our right to not only VOICE the truth, but to make sure that those in power cannot strip away or shut out such liberties from the people?
nice little article. I think too many Americans are merely good and they are content as “good” little slaves to the tyrannical government in place today.
-Arnold Brescia
By Arnold Brescia on Mar 2, 2008
I have travelled throughout the States extensively over the past few years. There is so much to see and do, and really, everyone, even those living in the US, should try to experience some of the grandeur of the place. It’s a lot nicer than you would expect. But the holiness and sanctimonious attitude of a lot people through the country really makes you wonder….especially the false religious beliefs that many hold true. (at least in the larger cities). small town America seems at least to have ‘faith’.
Andrews last blog post..Special Easter Recipes
By Andrew on Sep 18, 2008