“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness…” Congress, July 4, 1776, the unanimous Declaration of Independence of the thirteen united States of America

The fundamental equality of human beings, and their endowment with inalienable rights by their Creator, are theological beliefs. They are not universally accepted truths. It is a leap of faith to believe the undeniable premise that humans have God-given rights. 

There are many cultures where it is not self-evident that all men are created and endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights including life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Most people did not believe this in 1776 and this is why it was necessary for a Declaration to be written. The authors wrote, “we hold these truths to be self-evident” –it was not written, “these truths are self-evident”.  

Thomas Jefferson had originally penned the phrase as such: 

“..we hold these truths to be sacred and undeniable..,” and Benjamin Franklin, per Jefferson’s request, edited the Declaration before meeting in June.  It was a momentous edit. Jefferson’s version presented the rights held grounded on religion originating with the Creator and Franklin’s view grounded them in reason. 

Viewing one another as wonderfully designed by a Creator–in His image, worthy of undeniable rights in a society is foundational to those who believe in Christ. 

These sacred truths are not self-evident to those without faith. 

American Christians are called to give evidence to their liberty in Christ, living in pursuit of happiness through serving Him in a country that allows religious freedom. 

Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s.  Cling to Christ and give Him his glory. 

“Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor.” -Proverbs 21:21 

Prayer: 

God our Father, 

We lift up the United States of America to your care. You are the rock on which this nation was founded. You are the source of rights to life, liberty and happiness. Reclaim this land for your glory and dwell among your people. Help us! Amen