4th Grade History & Social Studies — America's Godly Heritage — From Columbus to the Constitution
Students will learn how the U.S. Constitution was built on Biblical principles, including the separation of powers and the rule of law.
After winning independence, the new nation needed a plan for how to govern itself. In 1787, delegates from the states gathered in Philadelphia to write the Constitution of the United States.
The Founders studied the Bible, especially how God organized the government of ancient Israel. Isaiah 33:22 describes God as judge, lawgiver, and king — three roles. The Founders used this idea to create three branches of government: the Judicial branch (courts), the Legislative branch (Congress), and the Executive branch (President).
Why three branches? The Bible teaches that all people are sinners (Romans 3:23), and no one person or group should have too much power. By dividing the government into three branches that check and balance each other, the Founders made sure no one could become a tyrant.
The Constitution also protects religious liberty. The First Amendment guarantees that the government cannot stop people from worshiping God freely. This was the very freedom the Pilgrims had sailed across the ocean to find!
The Constitution begins with the words 'We the People,' reminding us that in America, the government serves the people — and the people are accountable to God. It is one of the greatest documents ever written because it is built on the truth that God is the ultimate authority.
Draw and label the three branches of government (Judicial, Legislative, Executive). Next to each branch, write the matching word from Isaiah 33:22 (Judge, Lawgiver, King). Then write one sentence explaining why separating powers is important.