Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

100 Bible Verses That Made America: Defining Moments That Shaped Our Enduring Foundation of Faith

Rate this book
Bestselling author Robert Morgan explores 100 Bible verses that powerfully impacted our leaders during defining moments in American history and reflects upon what these verses mean for us as a nation today. 100 Bible Verses That Made America is a tour through the biblical roots of American history—a powerful exploration of our country’s founders, leaders, and the critical moments that laid the foundation for the formation of the USA. Had there been no Bible, there would be no America as we know it. It is the Bible that made America. When George Washington was sworn into office as our first president, he did not place his hand on the Declaration of Independence or the Constitution of the United States, as important as those documents are. Instead, he swore upon and even kissed the Bible to sanctify this important moment. The Bible, Washington knew, had ushered American history to this point. While not every Founding Father was a Christian, each was knowledgeable about the Bible. And while none of them was perfect, many embraced a deep faith in the unfailing Word of God. 100 Bible Verses That Made America Journey with Robert J. Morgan as he shares the Bible’s role in the defining moments of American history and its impact on the people of our nation, reminding us of the beauty of faith and country and reigniting our passion for both.

384 pages, Paperback

First published February 4, 2020

312 people are currently reading
378 people want to read

About the author

Robert J. Morgan

108 books174 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
187 (79%)
4 stars
31 (13%)
3 stars
12 (5%)
2 stars
2 (<1%)
1 star
3 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Profile Image for Alex.
85 reviews1 follower
January 6, 2021
Unfortunately, the author reveals himself to be a fool with an exaggerated victim complex. Take the book's final chapter, which highlights a verse from 2 Timothy as quoted by Barack Obama at a National Prayer Breakfast, and then a passage from a Trump speech at the same event in 2019. Morgan's final commentary reads: "May God always give us leaders who pray, who seek His face, who keep their Bibles open and their knees bent, and who willingly say--not as a formality but as the sincere desire of their hearts--may God bless the United States of America."

That Morgan appears to believe this applies to Trump is laughable and ridiculous, and undoes much of the good historical context he offers in the pages beforehand. His insistence in the conclusion that America today has lost sight of the morality of the Bible, and that Christians are the marginalized population in this country, betrays a deeply backwards view of our white supremacist nation, where Christofascism is on the rise and coddled by many of our institutions.

Finishing this on the day Trump's violent mob storms the U.S. Capitol was particularly disturbing, as I thought back to the many chapters in which figures from American history suggest the U.S. has been chosen by God in the way Israel once was. Morgan pays lip service to the influence of Christianity on the Civil Rights Movement of the 60s and acknowledges the genocide of Native Americans, but these are essentially footnotes to the larger picture.

I read this out of order, in parallel with the Bible (reading the chapters based on quotes from Genesis first, then Exodus, etc). I think that obscured the sinister nature of the book until midway through; it becomes unavoidable in the chapter on Roe vs. Wade, in which Morgan writes that abortion and slavery are analogous. Ultimately, the book is a testament to the dangers of American Christianity that have led us to this moment.
Profile Image for Josh Miller.
380 reviews22 followers
May 18, 2021
Upon laying eyes on this book in a Barnes & Noble bookstore earlier this year, I knew I had to purchase it and read it. Being blessed that a book with this much truth was being sold in a Barnes & Noble blessed my heart and I wanted to support the author and his work. However, after reading the book, I was blessed to the nth degree!

This compendium of short stories of how the Bible influenced our nation (before, during, and well after its founding up to today) encouraged my heart and solidified what I have always believed re: the Bible and its influence in the United States of America. God's Word has influenced my family to a great degree. However, to read how much of a place it has held in our country strengthened my commitment to make sure it continues to influence our nation.

I read this in a manner differently than I would read most books. After acquiring the book and realizing that each of the 100 entries/stories of How the Bible Made America were 3-5 pages long, I decided to read one entry a day for 100 days each morning AFTER I had read the Bible personally. There was nary a day that I closed this book without being blessed, challenged, and strengthened.

To pick one story that resonated above another would be difficult to do as each of the stories were so different and yet excellent. What I will do is quote from the prologue. In it, the author lays out a compelling argument that the Bible stands alone as the main document that has shaped our country more than any other.

"The founders of the United State of America revered the Bible because it reflected their awareness of God's authority over the nations. Washington did not place his hand on the Declaration of Independence or the Constitution of the United States, as hallowed as those documents are. Nor did he kiss the pages of any other religious or secular tome. It was the Bible that sanctified the moment. The Bible, he knew, had ushered American history to this point. It is the Bible that made America."

Morgan, quite measured in his approbation of historical figures, makes another sound statement in his prologue:

"I am not commending all those whose stories I tell in these pages, but I am commending the book they held in their hands. Trying to explain American history without the Bible is like trying to understand the human body without its bloodstream. Had there been no Bible, there would be no America as we know it. The nation would not have been born as it was. Perhaps it would not have been born at all."

The author goes on in his prologue to give quote after quote of presidents, supreme court justices and other notable figures from our country's history.

He then makes a poignant and possibly a prescient quote: "The Bible is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path; when it burns low, our culture grows dark."

My prayer & hope for America is that we would turn back to the Book that has helped to guide us and shape us to become one of the greatest nations the world has ever seen. It is books like this that will help steer people back to the Bible.

As he comes to the last page of his prologue, the author makes this statement:

"I'm writing from a conviction that the Bible is unique in human literature: a Book breathed out by god, recorded by those who were borne along by the Holy Spirit, and remains unerring in its teachings. Its message can change your life - your emotions, your situation, your mind, your heart, your family, and your future. The Scriptures can make us wise for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ."

I loved this book and I HIGHLY recommend it!
388 reviews2 followers
November 25, 2022
This book was an excellent read. I used it as my daily devotional. I just love this book. It is so spot on teaching true history of people in their own words. Chapters are short so you can digest his information. Beautifully written.
Profile Image for Jaymie.
2,301 reviews21 followers
February 4, 2020
[I received an electronic review copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]

3.5 stars. I am rating this book on what it IS rather than on how it shapes up based on what I was EXPECTING. That title made me believe I was going to read a book about 100 Bible verses that were chosen and used to build and shape America in the early days of the country.

Instead, this is 100 stories of historical figures and Bible verses either they referenced specifically (in a speech or a story or a letter) or one that the author chose to sum up the story. I could see someone who loves history, or someone interested in the intersection between history and faith using this as a 100 day devotional. The individual entries aren't long and there are some fascinating stories included. But I'm not sold that these are all "defining moments" or convinced of the author's assertion that these examples mean the Bible is a "cornerstone" of American history. One hundred stories hardly scratches the surface of 400+ years of history or the full range of even one historical figure's life and choices and how the Bible either was or was not reflected.

In recent years I have become skeptical at best - cynical at worst - when it comes to the intersection of faith and politics. So I approached this with that sort of eye. I wanted to see how the author sourced the stories he shared, and how he dealt with the darker parts of American history that we like to ignore. It didn't help the author that at the same time I read this I was also reading a book about how the Church was complicit in slavery and other racial/white supremacy/civil rights issues in America (The Color of Compromise). I brought all of that baggage to my reading. To the author's credit, this held up pretty well under all of that scrutiny.

The stories are sourced in the notes. The author was careful to spell out at the beginning that just because he shared a story of an individual, it didn't mean he endorsed the person or every decision the person made. And he included stories of individuals who, because of their faith, stood in opposition to slavery and to the early settlers' treatment of indigenous people. While this isn't something I would necessarily buy for myself or read on my own, I wouldn't hesitate to pick this up for someone with an interest in history and faith. I will be curious to read other reviews to see if any other readers, especially BIPOC readers, bring a different perspective to the stories.
Profile Image for Carmi Henderson.
168 reviews6 followers
October 13, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this look at American history through the 100 verses Robert Morgan chose to highlight. Each chapter contains a key verse and tells how that verse played a role in the history of our country. It is both sad and scary to realize how far we are away from God as a country. This book does encourage me to personally keep my focus on God and not the crazy of our world today.
Profile Image for Eric.
610 reviews11 followers
February 2, 2022
This is a well researched resource about the role and place of scripture in the lives of many of our founders and subsequent Presidential leaders. Each day is presented with a Scripture verse and a connecting story of an American leader, their faith and perspective, and how it shaped or reflected their life and their leadership. Each of the daily readings comes with bibliography of resources, adding credibility to the reflections. Perhaps weighted a bit toward the early leaders of our country, reflections run through reflection on the power of prayer from President Obama and a speech by President Trump.

The author clearly comes from a more evangelical/fundamentalist perspective. Hints are suggested throughout the book that the time of the First and Second Great Awakening periods in our history were the high points of our nation, and that we seem to be yearning for another Great Awakening today. I would argue, however, that as a nation we are now struggling to free ourselves from the recent decades of the Moral Majority/anti-vaxx/anti-LGBTQ/hard right leadership that has so polarized and divided our nation and reflected anything but Jesus-like behavior and perspective. Nevertheless, the pages of history reflected here are accurate as best I can tell.

I used this as a daily meditation/reflection resource. So in that regard, or has a resource for learning more of our nation's history, I can comment it to other readers.
542 reviews13 followers
March 23, 2022
This book is a great reminder that God is the anchor that has held our nation together from its inception to the present. Men and women of faith have been at the forefront of the development of this nation. Through their prayers and deeds, our country has become a powerful force in the world. We are not perfect but we do our best with God as our "everpresent help in times of trouble." For far too long we have forgotten our roots and our dependency upon the Creator of the universe. This book should be in every library; public, private, church, and personal. Give this to your kids and grandkids and show them how powerful and grace-filled God He is. Call on the name of Jesus once again.
2 reviews
December 24, 2025
If we somehow possessed the ability to select an elite group of statisticians at the top of their academic game, agree upon a uniform probability formula for every factor that proved critical to our nation’s survival, and time traveled to the Pennsylvania State House during the summer of 1776, would the decimal number we present to the prospective signatories dissuade the signing of the now-iconic parchment on which their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor would hang in the balance? From that fateful moment characterizing the Second Continental Congress, to the bloodshed of the 1860’s that ripped our nation apart from the inside out, to the depression after the roaring 20’s when “Hoover flags” became everyday fashion, to the uncertainty that loomed in 1941 as we entered World War 2, to the terror of 2001 that forever rerouted the trajectory of how we view national security, it truly is confounding in the most genuine sense at how the American experiment is about to enter a semiquincentennial epoch not as a fragile association of dueling colonies, but as the dominant world superpower at the forefront of global affairs.

At this point in our thought process, considering one has the sincere curiosity to continue, the question of “why” is so incredibly eminent that it could be replicated to the gag reflex.

To the Christian citizen, it can be understandingly exasperating to routinely carry out the sacred responsibility of keeping our stethoscope centered squarely on the hourly pulse of national events and reject the effect of becoming ductile to the forces of cynicism and discouragement. When faced with the question if the United States still recognizes the reality that we are “one nation, under God” as stated in our anthem, there is an overarching magnetism to answer negatively. Robert J. Morgan – to quite an effective end – offers valid evidence supporting the answer to be in the affirmative. In a series of short chapters, he engineers a tour through often unknown junctures of our nation’s past, from before our founding to the present, in which God’s invisible hand was at work. Ranging from presidents, to soldiers, to scholars, to businessmen, to theologians, to widows, and even to names lost in the archives of history, Morgan has demonstrated his ability to organize a series of ornate puzzle pieces containing all these demographics under the common context of biblical relevance.

In successfully doing so, I believe Morgan also answers the main point of the several point answer as to why this country carries a level of distinctness different from every other civilization past and present – even in the face of its infinitesimal probability of survival.
210 reviews4 followers
July 4, 2022
If God Is for Us . . .

In Romans 8:31 the Apostle Paul reminds us, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” It’s a lesson that should be at the core of teaching American history and civics, and a lesson that has been embraced throughout our history. America has always seen the Hand of Providence in its historical record, an understanding that seems perhaps to be fading, which will be to our detriment. Robert J. Morgan relates 100 short and fascinating examples of how the Bible has shaped our nation in this excellent book. The chapters stand alone as vignettes from American history but are recommended to be read sequentially to capture the sweep of God’s presence in and influence on our history and among the patriots who made that history.

Many of the examples in “100 Bible Verses That Made America” are familiar and expected: the story of the Pilgrims, the Great Awakenings, presidential reliance in times of turmoil on prayer and the Word of God, etc. But far more of the stories offer lesser known episodes or persons which also are important parts of our story. There are examples of God’s providential protection such as Washington’s extraordinary survival in the French and Indian War, a hurricane-spawned tornado in the War of 1812, and others. God’s use of great preachers from Whitfield to Graham and others not quite so famous to influence Americans and American leadership occurs throughout our history. From wars, to political crises, to great individual and national achievements, and so much more, this fine book is inspirational, easy to read, and a valuable perspective on American history and our God-ordained influence on history.
Profile Image for Floyd.
310 reviews6 followers
April 8, 2020
Robert J. Morgan has a history of writing books that provide helpful additions to the preacher’s library. The current book does just that as he focuses on 100 texts that shaped the people that would shape America. He begins with a sermon preached on December 21, 1511, by Antonio de Montesinos (known as “the first defender of human rights in the Americas”) on Matthew 3:3. He concludes with quotes from Barack Obama made at the National Prayer Breakfast on February 13, 2015, focusing on II Timothy 1:7, and from Donald Trump’s comments made at the National Prayer Breakfast on February 7, 2019, drawing from John 16:24.

Each entry is three to four pages in length and demonstrates the Scripture’s place in a historical context with copious documentation at the end of the book from historical records or from critical scholarship discussing the people and events mentioned in the devotional.

(See Sample Pages at Amazon.com)

Each devotional is insightful and practical. Given our current place in US history (Spring 2020), the book helps the reader appreciate the role the church and the Scripture had in our history. The book might serve as a devotional for the layperson or as sermon or teaching illustrations for the pastor or Sunday school teacher. It would also find a home in the church, the Bible School, or the Seminary, library.
______________
This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Jeff.
78 reviews2 followers
January 18, 2024
"100 Bible Verses That Made America" by Robert J. Morgan isn't your typical history book. It's like a chat with a friend who tells stories about how Bible verses shaped America. Living in Nashville, where history and culture blend, I felt a special connection to the tales and verses in the book.

As someone who loves family time and coaches little league sports, I saw how these verses influenced community and values. Morgan's stories made me appreciate how they guided people throughout American history.

What stood out was the personal touch. Morgan didn't just talk about history; he made me think about these timeless lessons in my own life. It's not just facts; it's like a guide for today.

Morgan's passion for the Bible and history is infectious. It felt like a friendly talk with someone who loves sharing cool stories. The book brought history to life, and I left with a deeper love for the diverse story of America.

In a nutshell, "100 Bible Verses That Made America" is more than a book. It's like a journey through history and personal reflection. If you're into stories that make you think and appreciate the spirit of America, give this one a go.
284 reviews1 follower
February 4, 2020
The Bible has had a great influence on the founding of America, perhaps more so than any other book. Within its pages, both clergy and lay leaders found inspiration to move forward with the plans of founding a new nation, and building it on faith.

The book shows the verses and then shares how they played a part in a significant event in American history. Some of the events are well known, others are not, but each one had a role in building the country. Though each entry is around two or three pages, they are well written and detailed.

100 Bible Verses That Made America is both informative and interesting. There are stories that I had never heard before and more about ones that I had. The book sheds light on parts of our history that are not often taught in school. The Bible served as a basis for many of the ideals that make this country what it is.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
32 reviews
March 28, 2023
This is a good devotional book. I read it because it was recommended by Jack Hibbs ministries. I enjoyed reading about the role faith, prayer, and scripture played in the history of North America. Jesus is the source of everything good, true, and beautiful. He is the creator and sustainer of all things, and a very present help in times of trouble for those who trust in Him. This devotional is well foot noted and contains many interesting short stories of the role Christianity played in helping leaders deal with crisis during pivotal moments in history. O the depths and the depths of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! His word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. I read one account each day as part of my regular devotional plan. I like the author's writing style and narratives. Easy to read and interesting. I plan to read another of the author's devotionals, "100 verses every Christian should know by heart."
Profile Image for SKP.
1,218 reviews
June 21, 2023
I loved this book! I used it as a daily devotional, and I loved every one of the 100 entries! Great dive into the history of the United States specifically with how the Bible and the foundation of Faith in God truly shaped our country and continues to do so. I learned a lot of history too that I didn’t know before.

In spite of our country’s Biblical faith-filled foundation, there is an obvious crisis in our country today as more and more people turn their backs on God. I see this growing worse in the 3 years since this book was written. Every day I pray that Americans will humble themselves, pray and seek His face and turn from their wicked ways so that God will hear from Heaven, forgive our sin, and heal our land (as in 1 Chronicles 7:14).
Profile Image for Dr. Kathy.
588 reviews4 followers
May 30, 2024
Robert J. Morgan is an accomplished historian who writes an enjoyable and readable report of his research on the importance of the Bible in the making of America. This book made me hurt for a time in our not too distant past when it was okay for people in politics and positions of importance to express their faith and not be criticized for it, when people could discern on their own what their feelings and beliefs were without being sued or banished. After all, wasn’t freedom of religion one of the main reasons our country was settled? This book was so interesting that I read it hurriedly but will go back to study it later. From prayers to sermons, the book is filled with inspiration from the past that should be guiding our leaders today.
194 reviews1 follower
June 5, 2025
The author mixes religion and U.S. History into a great read. Starting with the Pilgrims, Jamestown, the founding fathers, and the each war the U.S. has been involved. Throughout many ministers who founded schools like Harvard, Yale, Dartmouth, Princeton, Hampden-Sydney and others. The impact that scripture has influenced life in each phase of the growth of the country. The first half is pre Civil War and after that Lincoln, to current day. The last part Roosevelt, Truman, Ike, Patton, MLK, the Civil Rights movement. Finally, Carter, Reagan, Bush's, Obama and Trump. Each section is three pages long and includes a bible verse and how it impacted the individual discussed. In addition, the section may include writings from the individual. It was an interesting read.
Profile Image for Lisa Lewis Lewis.
Author 1 book6 followers
August 6, 2021
If you love the Bible and enjoy U.S. History, then this is the book for you! This book begins in 1511 with Antonio de Montesinos, a Dominican missionary who was the first defender of human rights in the Americas, and concludes with the National prayer breakfast in February, 2019. From before the founding of our nation to current day, Morgan shows the Scriptures behind the events in American history. Most accounts are only three pages, so it's great for a quick read. Although, if you're like me, you'll have a hard time stopping at just one!
4 reviews1 follower
August 27, 2021
A revealing and sound history of our United States of America.

Life seems to change frequently, but it is not different for us than for it founding fathers and those who have greatly impacted or nation. This book opens the hearts of our forbearers giving an insight into the strength, stability and hope they drew from the Bible and their God. A must read for those who want to understand the fabric of U.S. history.
14 reviews
August 21, 2023
Read a Portion Every day

Interesting look at how America’s leaders used scripture verses, and the effect the Bible had on America’s history. I read a chapter everyday from the beginning until finishing this morning. It was important to me to learn how much the Bible has had on America.
Profile Image for John.
872 reviews
October 31, 2021
Excellent look at how God has worked in the development and sustainment of our country. I read as a devotional over several months to focus on each verses and consider the importance for our nation. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Frances Driscoll.
82 reviews5 followers
September 21, 2021
Wow!

This book is great! I love the quotes and the stories behind them. History plus faith equals a wonderful read!
96 reviews
November 15, 2021
Great book to read before retiring at night. You will be surprised at the people in our nations history who relied on the Bible as their guide and strength.
36 reviews
December 16, 2021
Great book, 2-3 page short stories about godly people who made American great and trusted God. I loved how each chapter start with Scripture.

Would recommend fun read if you love history…
Profile Image for Henry McLaughlin.
Author 6 books48 followers
October 1, 2022
An excellent exploration of the effects of the Bible on America for over 500 years. A must-read to learn more about what is meant by a biblical worldview.
1 review
January 15, 2023
Really enjoyed this book!

Lots of history for you history buffs! It shows how much God was a part of developing America! Now we need to get back to it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.