The United States stands on a Judeo-Christian foundation. This is historical fact, not a mere sentiment. Christianity is intrinsically linked to Judaism, for the New Testament builds upon the Old. Jesus Christ, a Jew himself, taught using Hebrew Scriptures, and according to the Gospel of Matthew, aimed to fulfill the Law and the Prophets, not overturn them.
However, recent distortions of this history concern me deeply as a pastor. Dr. Jordan Peterson, despite recent illness, shared a significant post on this matter. He noted, “The 10 Commandments are Jewish. Essential Old Testament stories are Jewish. Jewish culture developed concepts like subsidiarity, opposing tyranny and slavery. Jews established the groundwork for universal literacy. The fate of Israel at Islamist hands reflects the fate of the West. Rising antisemitism appalls me. Those engaging in it for purported moral reasons betray fundamental truths. Do remember, you self-righteous ‘Christians’ opposing the term: Christ was Jewish.”
Peterson’s points resonate. Almost immediately, others illustrated his concerns. Jack Posobiec, a senior editor at Human Events, argued with Peterson, stating, “This is not what Christians believe.” Another voice claimed figures like Abraham and Moses were Christian, which is a revisionist stance, ignoring Judaism’s foundational role.
This reflects an intellectual dishonesty similar to attempts to redefine American history, such as the 1619 Project, which posits slavery as America’s core truth over the 1776 liberty principles. Those erasing Jewish contributions and emphasizing solely Christian elements distort doctrinal and historical truths.
America’s founding documents have deep biblical roots. The belief “All men are created equal” stems from the idea that every person bears God’s image. Essential concepts like law, dignity, and mercy flow from Judeo-Christian teachings. Without these, Christianity and America’s ideals lose their grounding.
This goes beyond academic discourse; it affects discipleship and truth taught to our children. Through Project H.O.O.D. on Chicago’s South Side, we’re developing a Leadership and Economic Opportunity Center. Our initiative includes job training, education, financial literacy, and unfiltered biblical teachings, reflecting both Testaments alongside American principles. We aim to teach youth the comprehensive truth, confronting sins and upholding founding ideals.
We face a national challenge. Any form of revisionism weakens us. Peterson rightly condemned the antisemitism rising around us as intolerable. Historically, the Black church and Jewish people have fought oppression together; this alliance must continue.
Maintaining historical honesty is crucial. America’s ideals aren’t exclusive to one group; they belong to all who embrace truth. Built on a Judeo-Christian base, this nation demands defense of its foundational values.
Pastor Corey Brooks, the “Rooftop Pastor,” leads New Beginnings Church of Chicago and Project H.O.O.D. His rooftop vigils aimed at transforming Chicago’s dangerous “O-Block” into #OpportunityBlock brought him national recognition.