The Decline And Fall Of The American Empire

Alexis de Tocqueville, a French statesmen, came to America in the 1830's. His purpose in coming to America was to discover the reasons behind the rapid growth and development of this new, infant nation. After much traveling, studying, and interviewing, this was the conclusion of his research.

"I sought for the key to the greatness and genius of America in her harbors...; in her fertile fields and boundless forests; in her rich mines and vast world commerce; in her public school system and institutions of learning. I sought for it in her democratic Congress and in her matchless Constitution.

Not until I went into the churches of America and heard her pulpits flame with righteousness did I understand the secret of her genius and power.

America is great because America is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great."

~ Alexis De Tocqueville

Friends, if Alexis De Tocqueville was right (and I believe he was) that the greatness of America rested in the churches of America, then the decline of America can also be traced to the decline of America's churches.

The problem is that our churches are no longer filled with Christians and preachers who are filled with the Spirit of God and surrendered to the Will of God. In the early 1800's, Christianity was a lifestyle or a way of life. Everyday life was characterized by Christian principles from the classroom to the courtroom, from the butcher to the builder, from the smith to the soldier.

Consider, for example, this ruling from the United States Supreme Court in 1892:

"This is a religious people. This is historically true. From the discovery of this continent to the present hour, there is a single voice making this affirmation...These, and many other matters which might be noticed, add a volume of unofficial declarations to the mass of organic utterances that this is a Christian nation."

~ Supreme Court Of The United States - Church of the Holy Trinity v The United States

Today, however, Christianity is a fashion trend, but not a lifestyle. Christianity is a visit to church on Sunday, and a few dirty jokes with your friends on Monday. Christianity is a matter of convenience and not a matter of conviction.

Christianity has become so shallow and heartless in recent years that there is nowhere to place the blame of America's moral decline than at he doorstep of the church house. Just look at the condition of America. Violent crimes, sexual crimes, theft, and other forms of ungodliness are only getting worse and worse. Homosexuals are on a rampage for rights to aid in their vile sin. Rock music, drugs, prayer being kicked out of schools...you don't have to look far. America is in a sad condition!

Why? It's not because the wrong people were elected to political offices, although that may have a contributed to some degree. It’s not a result of the changing global economy. It's not a result of the actions of our soldiers.

Why? It's because America's pulpits are no longer aflame with righteousness. It's because Christians are no longer giving themselves whole-heartedly to the God who loves us and blesses us daily. The blame, I regret to say, is on your hands and mine!