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The Myth of Christian America  /  MCA (10 of 14): Persecution of Kingdom Christians  /  Discussion Questions
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Question 4
Bercot argues the colonists had “absolutely no legal or moral grounds” to object to British tariffs because the charter already required adherence to English navigation acts and duties. How does that claim challenge common Christian storytelling about the Revolution, and how should Christians handle patriotic narratives when historical facts complicate them?
Another way to ask: Bercot says the colonists had no real legal or moral reason to complain about British tariffs because they had already agreed to them in the charter. How does that challenge common Christian stories about the Revolution, and how should Christians deal with patriotic stories when facts get messy?

Direct Answer Bercot’s claim challenges the popular story that the Revolution was a clear moral fight against oppression, suggesting the tariff issue was already agreed to in the charter. He implies Christians should be honest about history, even when it unsettles patriotic narratives, and not confuse propaganda with truth.

Support from Transcript:

  • He explains the 1681 charter reserved sovereignty to the king and required Pennsylvania laws to align with England.
  • The charter explicitly required colonists to follow the Navigation Acts and pay “customs duties and tariffs… the same as any other English person would have to.”
  • He concludes settlers had “absolutely no legal or moral grounds to object to the tariffs and duties… the very issues that led to the American Revolution.”
  • He calls some revolutionary rhetoric “propaganda,” citing the “Boston massacre… it wasn’t a massacre.”
  • He argues England was not making them “slaves,” and colonists actually had significant freedom and property compared to people in England.
Discussion Follow-ups When a cherished national story conflicts with documented evidence, which should a disciple of Jesus choose to protect—identity or truth? How can Christians talk about their country without repeating myths?

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