LEC502‒ Theological Roots of the U.S. Constitution: Description
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Biblical principles and Christian thought have profoundly influenced the founding of the American republic. This course examines how the theology of America’s Founding Fathers helped shape key constitutional ideals in areas such as law, liberty, human dignity, and moral responsibility.
Students will examine primary documents and the lives of key founders to uncover the theological convictions behind the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. The course also considers how a Christian worldview informed the separation of powers, checks and balances, and protections for religious and civil liberties.
By tracing the spiritual, moral and philosophical vision that undergirded the U.S. Constitution, students will better understand the rights and responsibilities of Christian citizenship and the enduring impact of biblical principles on public life and governance.
REQUIREMENT DESIGNATION:
Bridge Requirement
MDiv Requirement
✓ MDiv Elective
DMin Requirement
✓ DMin Elective
✓ No Prerequisite
Prerequisite:
CREDIT HOUR DESIGNATION:
✓ 4 Credits
E‒ Easy
C‒ Comfortable
✓ S‒ Sizable
R‒ Rigorous
F‒ Formidable
INSTRUCTIONAL COMPONENTS:
✓ Textbook or Books
Video or PowerPoint Lessons
Video Intro or Commentary
Online Text Lessons
RETENTION & ASSESSMENT:
Study Guides
✓ Quizzes
Workbook
Forum Posting
Written or Media Submission
EXPECTED
EXPENDITURES:
✓ Tuition
✓ Educational Materials
Admin or Instructional Support Fee
Optional Mailing Cost
John Eidsmoe
DEPARTMENT: Leadership, Ethics & Citizenship
John Eidsmoe
John Eidsmoe is a constitutional attorney, retired Air Force Lt. Colonel, and Professor of Law Emeritus. He has taught at Faulkner University’s Jones School of Law, Oral Roberts University, and Oak Brook College of Law. He holds a J.D. from the University of Iowa and advanced theology degrees from Dallas Theological Seminary, Lutheran Brethren Seminary, and Oral Roberts University. He serves as Senior Counsel at the Foundation for Moral Law and is also an ordained pastor in the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations.
SSS COURSES
LEC502‒ Theological Roots of the U.S. Constitution
TEXTBOOK: • Christianity and the Constitution: The Faith of Our Founding Fathers