1. God’s Nation

2. John Adams : “The general principles on which the fathers achieved independence were the general principles of Christianity.” John Hancock, called on the entire state to pray “that universal happiness may be established in the world that all may bow to the scepter of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Patrick Henry, “It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists but by Christians, not on religions, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ.”

3. Calvin believed that it was a Christian’s duty to inject himself into civil government, and that the need for civil government was due to man’s total depravity. “Were we like angels… we would not need rules or regulations. Why, then, do we have so many laws and statutes? Because of man’s wickedness, for he is constantly overflowing with evil; this is why a remedy is required.” James Madison wrote in Federalist No. 51, “If men were angels, no government would be necessary.”

4. Calvin's thinking shaped the founding of the USA Some have gone so far as to say that Calvin's ideas “provide the basic structure of American life” and that “John Calvin was the virtual founder of America” (Lingle & Kuykendall, Presbyterians: Their History and Beliefs, 1944, p. 28). John Jay : “It is the duty of our Christian nation to select and prefer Christians for their rulers.” John Jay was the first Chief Justice. His family were descendants of the Huguenots (French Protestants) inspired by the writings of John Calvin.

5. Psalm 33:12 was read at the first gathering of the Continental Congress. It is describing the ancient nation of Israel! God’s nation today is neither physical Israel nor the United States (1 Peter 2:9; Hebrews 12:28) The church that Christ built is His kingdom/nation (Matthew 16:18; Isaiah 2:2-4) This is MY COUNTRY!!! (Philippians 3:20; 2 Timothy 2:2-4; Daniel 2:44)

6. He ordains and empowers governments (Daniel 2:21; 4:32; John 19:10-11) He uses His people to make nations better Through evangelism (Proverbs 24:21; Mark 13:9; Acts 9:15; 13:12; 26:8-9; Psalm 119:46; Philippians 4:22) By practicing righteousness (1 Peter 2:13-15; Proverbs 14:34) By respecting government (Romans 13:1-6)

7. If you are Christian, your true country transcends every nation on earth! “But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.” (Hebrews 11:16