Why has the American government worked so well in the past—and why is it facing so many challenges, difficulties and problems today?

Were the Founders the only group of leaders in human history who accidentally got everything right?

 Is the United States just a magnificent fluke?

Or are there principles that, when consistently practiced, bring about historically unprecedented results?

These questions and more will be examined in a weekly study of W. Cleon Skousen’s bestselling book, The 5,000 Year Leap: A Miracle That Changed the World, to be taught by the Rev. Dr. Thomas D. Schwartz, pastor of Collinsville Community Church.

The study will be at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays beginning Feb. 10 at the church, located at 1400 W. Oak St. in Collinsville.

“The American nation the Founders built is now in the throes of an economic, political and social crisis, driving many to an almost frantic search for solutions,” he said.

“The truth is that the necessary solutions are found in the writings of the Founders themselves, which are detailed in this relevant and timely book.”

According to Schwartz, Skousen’s book is based on the 28 principles of freedom the Founders said must be comprehended and perpetuated by all people who desire freedom, peace and prosperity.

“In this study, participants will learn how adherence to these beliefs during our nation’s first 200 years created more progress than made in the previous 5,000 years,” he said.

“These principles include the genius of natural law, virtuous and moral leaders, equal rights (not equal things) and avoiding the burden of debt.”

Contemporary Americans are falling woefully short of protecting and sustaining the opportunities and privileges inherited from the Founders, Schwartz said.

“The understanding of how and why the United States became the world’s leader in economic growth, human rights, personal freedoms and technological innovation has been lost by too many Americans,” he said. “As we have forgotten, ignored and overlooked those principles, our society has increasingly lost those things that have made America a beacon of freedom and liberty to the world.”

Any interested persons are welcome to attend and participate in the study. No one will be proselyted and no offering will be taken. Enter the church through the south door (which faces Oak Street) on the west side of the building (nearest to 15th Street).