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One of the great founding principles of the United States of America is E pluribus unum. It is translated, “From many, one.” The notion of the great melting pot is an expression of this principle. These related concepts have become synonymous with the United States. Though we came from many corners of the globe and many cultures, we seek to be one united people. How did that come about, and what is its significance? The founding fathers recognized that the American colonies, which were soon to become the United States, were quickly being populated by people from various parts of Europe and the world. Though perhaps most of the newcomers were united in their quest for cheap land and freedoms they had not known in the old country, they brought with them widely disparate political, social, and religious ideas and customs. The founders, being familiar with the seemingly endless wars within Europe, knew that such a mix would be explosive here as well, and that this new nation called the United States of America could only be established and preserved if its people were of one mind concerning certain essentials. Thus they forwarded the principle of e pluribus unum. The new nation would have to be built on the basis of principles and understandings shared by all. From many peoples and views, they hoped to forge a nation that was one people with a singular vision. The practical outworking of e pluribus unum is supposed to be that immigrants, as they enter their adopted country, are expected to begin a process of assimilation, i.e., they set aside certain political and social habits, certain ideas about the roles of church and state—perhaps even their native language—in order to adopt the institutions, customs, and language of their new country. Thus there develops a basis for national unity. All the citizens of the new country can then move forward together in nation building rather than descending into political, ethnic, and cultural chaos. Of course, it is psychologically and emotionally difficult to discard the old familiar customs and to adopt a new culture. It is harder for the elderly than for the very young. There may be a deep sense of loss, as though leaving part of yourself behind. Frankly, only the promise of political and religious freedom, and greater economic opportunity, were sufficiently powerful motives to make the change. Reluctant as they were to set aside what had been their very identity, a new and better life beckoned, and they assimilated—some more quickly than others, some more completely than others. The result has been, at least until now, the greatest nation the earth has yet seen. Despite its manifest sins, the United States has been a blessing to its own people and to millions around the world for over two hundred years. This could not have happened without an essential unity. In e pluribus unum, we can find an analogy for the family of God. If we were to look at many congregations today, particularly in more urban settings, we might ask, “Who were these people before God called them into His covenant?” They probably represented many religions and denominations. Some had no religion. They were probably diverse at many levels: socially, economically, politically, ethnically. What happened when they became Christians? When an unbeliever becomes a Christian, he sets aside many aspects of his old life—leaves them behind. This is particularly true of sin, though other relationships and activities will also be altered or abandoned. Also the believer subscribes to a set of beliefs and principles that identify him with the people of God. There is a unity in their shared beliefs, and thus a basis for success in community living and action. Sadly, there is a movement afoot in our nation today intent on undermining e pluribus unum. It is called multiculturalism. The proponents of multiculturalism declare that the strength of a nation is in its diversity rather than in its unity. It declares that immigrants shouldn’t have to assimilate, but should be able to establish enclaves in the U.S. that virtually replicate their old country—including their language. Multiculturalism insists, despite all historical evidence to the contrary, that a nation full of people with competing and contradictory philosophies can somehow work. Ask the Serbs, Croats, and Bosniaks of Bosnia if multiculturalism works. There is something to be said for diversity. People from different backgrounds and cultures can bring fresh perspectives and energies to the institutions and economy of their adopted country. When diversity, however, insists that newcomers must be free to introduce and propagate ideas that work to destroy American institutions which are the envy of the world, we Americans should not stand still for it. We should raise our voices against those who are disconnected with and disloyal to our Republic while insisting on the right to alter or abolish its free institutions. The survival of the United States requires that its people continue to embrace the truth that real unity comes only as citizens strive to be “one nation under God.” For centuries, Americans from many backgrounds, and yes, even diverse religious traditions, understood that the fragile flower of liberty can only survive in the soil that has been cultivated by the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ. No other foundation can ever be laid for uniting a nation in peace and social harmony than that which is consistent with the Gospel of Christ. Toleration of individuals and their beliefs must never cause a society to abandon its commitment to defend and uphold its most cherished and necessary political and religious connections. Respecting the rights of the one must never be permitted to undermine the peace and good of the many. Sincerely, Mark L. Beuligmann, M.S. Ed. Administrative Director Christian Liberty Academy School System |
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