The Declaration of Independance

“When in the course of human events…” the famous document begins. What  made it so potent and transcendent? Thomas Jefferson, representing the thirteen colonies, penned the powerful declaration appealing to God’s authority, logic, and pathos.

Image from http://www.founding.com/the_declaration_of_i/
Read the full text of the Declaration there as well

Wisely, Jefferson based his case on the Solid
Rock. “They are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights…” These rights are not removable because they come from God, not government. Thomas appeals to the “Supreme Judge of the world,” rather than King George, who has turned a deaf ear. Not surprisingly, God is also the author of Justice, order, and logic.

Continuing on, Jefferson piles up pillars of logic to frame his case. He explains that “Prudence… will dictate that governments long established should not be changed for light… causes…” This is not a whimsical fancy. Thomas’ tone indicates he means business; he uses formal, serious words. Systematically, he lists the thirteen colonies’ complaints against the King. George III won’t listen to reason or representation. He set up puppet rulers and tore down proper ones. He required a standing army in peace time, forced colonists to quarter
them in their own homes, and placed the soldiers out of the reach of the civil law, among other things.

Skillfully, Jefferson utilizes pathos. Pleading with the British, he calls them “brethren.” Many of the colonists were immigrants from England. He reminds them of their “common kindred.” Descriptively, he paints the scene of the colonies woes; “He [George III] has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.” Anyone who read the newspapers would know Jefferson was not being flowery or over exaggerating. He wasn't relying on pathos for lack of logos, instead, he had created a logical structure to fill in with detail and finishing touches.

Insightfully, Jefferson laid his foundation on God. Next, he erected the framework of logic. Finally, he brought in colorful portraits of pathos to hang on the walls. Perhaps the most effective witness to his “house” are the people who backed up his words with blood. What might have been worthless paper has stood for over 200 years because Americans still defend and repair the old mansion. The ideals he expressed are rooted in the timeless Word of God.