Faith · Liberty · Founding documents
God, Religion, and the U.S. Constitution
The Constitution’s closing attestation uses the expression “Year of our Lord.” The original Constitution also addresses religious tests in Article VI. The First Amendment addresses establishment and free exercise of religion. These are distinct passages with distinct functions.
Where does “Year of our Lord” appear?
It appears in the closing attestation following Article VII, as part of the date of signing in Convention: September 17, 1787. Article VII’s operative provision concerns ratification by nine states. The closing date should be read in its location and context rather than treated as the wording of the ratification rule.
Read Article VII and the closing attestation at the National Archives.
What does Article VI say about religion?
Article VI provides for an oath or affirmation to support the Constitution and says that a religious test cannot be required for an office or public trust under the United States.
What does the First Amendment say?
The First Amendment’s religion clauses address laws made by Congress concerning establishment of religion and prohibiting its free exercise. Read the actual clauses before considering historical interpretations or later legal developments.
Read the First Amendment in the National Archives Bill of Rights transcription.
How I read the documents together
I regard the Declaration and Constitution as sacred documents. My Christian interpretation connects the Declaration’s references to God with the Constitution’s purposes and structure. I also see a theological parallel with Isaiah 33:22: judge, lawgiver, and king.
The Constitution does not quote Isaiah 33:22 or explicitly say that it establishes a covenant with Jesus Christ. My proposed connection is a theological reading. Its significance can be discussed while distinguishing the text from the interpretation I bring to it.
A question for the reader
How do faith, freedom of conscience, and responsibility for public power fit together in your reading of America’s founding documents?
Read the Declaration’s four references to God · Explore the topic