This week, I extend my best wishes to all those gathered at the Museum of the Bible, on the National Mall, and across the nation for the America Reads the Bible initiative. In this historic event, nearly 500 Americans will publicly read the entire Bible over one week, from Genesis to Revelation, to commemorate 250 years of the Bible in America.
Since the time of Christopher Columbus’ arrival in the New World and the establishment of the first English-speaking settlement at Jamestown, the Bible has been a core part of America’s identity and culture. Nearly 400 years ago, shortly after the Mayflower’s arrival, John Winthrop invoked Jesus Christ’s Sermon on the Mount from the Gospel of Matthew: “We must consider that we shall be as a city upon a hill. The eyes of all people are upon us,” urging his fellow settlers to be exemplars of faith.
In the years that followed, the teachings of the Bible deeply influenced American culture, permeating churches, homes, schools, courtrooms, and public spaces. On July 4, 1776, 150 years after Winthrop’s sermon, the Founders echoed biblical truths in the Declaration of Independence: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
Since those words were declared, the Bible has continually influenced the U.S. government, constitution, educational institutions, and civic values. The 1787 Northwest Ordinance emphasized the importance of “Religion, morality, and knowledge” for good governance and education. Two decades later, John Adams expressed to Benjamin Rush that the Bible contained the most profound philosophy, perfect morality, and refined policy ever conceived.
Throughout history, God’s Word has guided Americans through challenges and victories. George Washington set a precedent during his inauguration by taking the oath of office with his hand on the Bible. In his First Inaugural Address, Washington remarked on the United States’ unique relationship with divine guidance. Similarly, Abraham Lincoln, in his Second Inaugural Address, frequently referenced the Bible, God, and prayer as he sought to heal the nation post-Civil War. During World War II, Franklin D. Roosevelt prayed for divine intervention against the enemy. In 1983, amid the Cold War, Ronald Reagan declared it the Year of the Bible, emphasizing its fundamental role in shaping the nation.
In this 250th year of American independence, the America Reads the Bible initiative calls on citizens to recognize the nation’s biblical roots and express gratitude for God’s role in its unity and strength. This week-long event, featuring leaders from various sectors, aims to inspire citizens to reconnect with the biblical principles that have guided the nation for centuries and to pray for continued guidance for future generations.
I commend every participant in the America Reads the Bible initiative. Together, we will honor Scripture, renew our faith, and reaffirm the United States as one nation under God.
