Defending the Judeo-Christian Foundation of America

The United States has roots in Judeo-Christian traditions, a notion rooted in historical context rather than sentiment. Christianity, inherently linked to Judaism, centers its teachings on the New Testament, which builds upon the Old Testament. Jesus Christ was born into Judaism, preaching from Hebrew Scriptures and stating that his mission was to fulfill the Law and the Prophets, as documented in the Gospel of Matthew.

Recent times have seen distortions of this narrative, a trend that troubles many, including pastors. Dr. Jordan Peterson, a notable voice, recently highlighted this concern. Despite his recent health struggles, Peterson emphasized the Jewish origins of foundational Christian texts and pointed out the rise of antisemitism. He stated, “The 10 Commandments are Jewish. The great stories of the Old Testament are Jewish. The Jews developed the idea of subsidiarity as the alternative to tyranny and slavery. The Jews established the cultural preconditions for the rise of universal literacy. The fate of Israel at the hands of the Islamists is the fate of the West. This rising tide of anti-semitism sickens me.”

His words resonate with truth, yet some challenge this perspective. A notable response came from Jack Posobiec, a senior editor at Human Events, who contested the alignment of Christianity’s origins with Judaism. Others echoed this view, even ascribing Christian identity to biblical figures like Abraham and Moses, thus erasing the Jewish roots of Christianity under a false veneer of piety.

This attempt to recenter Christianity apart from its Jewish history resembles the 1619 Project’s approach to framing America’s founding around slavery instead of liberty principles from 1776. Similarly, this trend attempts to reshape scriptural history, sidelining Jewish contributions in favor of a Christian-centric view. Such revisionism distorts Christianity’s heritage, depriving it of its enriching origins.

America’s founding documents reflect biblical truths, such as “All men are created equal” and “endowed by their Creator with unalienable rights,” deriving from the belief that all humans bear God’s image. Judeo-Christian principles, including the rule of law, human dignity, and justice, significantly influence America’s founding and societal structure. Removing this foundation would leave Christianity and American principles unmoored.

The urgency to confront this discourse is not merely academic but also a matter of discipleship. Misinforming younger generations about these origins does not serve them; instead, it divides and weakens societal unity. Initiatives like Project H.O.O.D. in Chicago aim to rectify this by offering rigorous education and job training alongside an uncompromised truth of both Biblical Testaments and American principles.

Antisemitism must be addressed vigorously, as it threatens to deepen societal rifts. The Black church and Jewish communities share a legacy of defying suppression. This bond continues as they stand together against historical revisionism. Pastor Corey Brooks, founder and Senior Pastor of New Beginnings Church of Chicago and CEO of Project H.O.O.D, emphasizes this unity and defends the nation’s Judeo-Christian bedrock. America’s principles transcend ethnic divisions, belonging to all citizens committed to truth. Brooks, widely known as the “Rooftop Pastor,” campaigns for transforming troubled areas into opportunities, illustrating the power of faith and community.