Mike Belcher discusses Puritanical, Reformed, and Theonomic systems in a series of tweets posted on September 5, 2025. Belcher addresses misconceptions about these theological frameworks and their influence on American history.
In his first tweet at 15:56 UTC, Belcher states, “This isn’t even a little bit correct about the manner in which the Puritanical/Reformed/Theonomic system operates – this can be easily demonstrated in Calvin’s Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrate (which was the operational basis of the American Revolution, re: Black Robe Regiment), https://t.co/2cDRA81yzT”.
Later that day at 16:19 UTC, he continues with another observation: “I’d also note that the one thing I think this thread genuinely does prove is that, by the time of the founding, those founding fathers were subverted enough by enlightenment ideologies that they added some sand (Natural Law, etc) to the otherwise firm foundation (the Reformed”.
Belcher concludes his remarks at 18:49 UTC by addressing perceptions of Christianity and Theonomy: “For those actively being scared off of Christianity and ‘Theonomy’ by the liberals, take a moment to find out what it actually entails. It’s not so bad. It’s quite good, actually. https://t.co/NfVcmOOpQJ”.
The references made by Belcher include John Calvin’s Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrate and its historical connection to resistance movements such as those led by the “Black Robe Regiment” during the American Revolution. The term “Black Robe Regiment” refers to clergy who supported colonial resistance against British rule and is often cited in discussions about religious influences on America’s founding principles.
Belcher also notes Enlightenment influences on America’s founders. Enlightenment thought introduced ideas such as natural law and individual rights into political philosophy during the 18th century, impacting both secular governance and religious discourse in early America.
