An organization seeking to institute Old Testament laws to all aspects of society
Religion: Christianity
Denomination: Reformed Christianity
Founder: Rousas John Rushdoony
Founded: 1965
Location: United States (originally California, later moved to Texas)
Other Names: Chalcedon Institute
The Chalcedon Foundation, established in 1965 by Rousas John Rushdoony, is a major organization in the American Christian Reconstruction movement. Named after the Council of Chalcedon, it advocates for the implementation of Christian Reconstructionism, a theological framework that proposes the application of Old Testament laws to all areas of life and society. The foundation’s mission extends to promoting this ideology through education, publishing, and the fostering of a self-governing Christian society.
At the heart of Christian Reconstructionism, as espoused by the Chalcedon Foundation, is the concept of theonomy, which believes in the direct application of God’s law-word, as revealed in the Bible, to every facet of human life and thought. The foundation positions itself against humanism and statism, advocating instead for Christian faith and liberty as the solutions to societal issues. It is supported financially through direct, tax-deductible gifts from its followers, helping it to maintain its independence from government and foundational grants.
Rousas John Rushdoony’s work laid the groundwork for the contemporary theonomy movement, emphasizing the importance of God’s law in societal governance. His teachings advocate for a society where biblical laws are applied, including, but not limited to, those pertaining to morality as dictated in the Old Testament. Rushdoony’s son, Mark, has since taken over leadership of the foundation, continuing its mission to influence both political and religious spheres in the U.S.
The foundation’s influence extends beyond education and publishing; it actively seeks to reshape Christian culture and thought through its publications and outreach efforts. It has been involved in controversies, particularly for its founder’s views, which have included positions labeled as racist and Holocaust denial. Despite such controversies, the foundation has maintained a significant influence within certain Christian circles, advocating for a societal restructuring based on biblical laws.
The Chalcedon Foundation envisions a world where democracy is replaced with a theocratic governance based on Old Testament statutes. This vision includes controversial stances on issues such as the application of the death penalty for acts considered sinful under Mosaic Law. Such views have led to the foundation being characterized by some as an anti-gay hate group, a label that underscores the polarizing nature of its mission and beliefs.
image via GuideStar
