Article 2, Section 2, Paragraph 1
The President shall be Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States, and of the Militia of the several States, when called into the actual Service of the United States; he may require the Opinion, in writing, of the principal Officer in each of the executive Departments, upon any Subject relating to the Duties of their respective Offices, and he shall have Power to grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offences against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment.
Commander and Chief
The model for the military of the United States came from the Bible. Israel did not have a standing army, but instead the men were always to be ready to fight if called upon to do so. Fighting also was voluntary, with certain exceptions being allowed to permit the unwilling to go back home. There was a great deal of pride that went along with being a part of the fighting force of a tribe. When a tribe was left out of a battle, they would take it personally, considering it their right and privilege to defend the nation.
Judges 8:1, "And the men of Ephraim said unto him, Why hast thou served us thus, that thou calledst us not, when thou wentest to fight with the Midianites? And they did chide with him sharply."
The model of leadership for this volunteer army was taken from the Scriptures. The great military leaders were also heads of the state of Israel. Examples include Joshua and the Judges, as well as the kings. These men proved to be the best military commanders. The one exception of a judge that did not take the military leadership was Deborah who compelled Barak to lead the men. It should be noted that Barak would not take the position unless Deborah was involved as well.
Judges 4:8-9, "And Barak said unto her, If thou wilt go with me, then I will go: but if thou wilt not go with me, then I will not go. And she said, I will surely go with thee: notwithstanding the journey that thou takest shall not be for thine honour; for the LORD shall sell Sisera into the hand of a woman. And Deborah arose, and went with Barak to Kedesh."
These two ideas were contrary to the status quo of the world. Nations typically have a “trained and standing” military force. Unfortunately, during times of peace, these troops are used to harass citizens and carry on needless warfare with neighboring countries. The Biblical model involves the citizens in being pro-active in protecting their country. Because the citizens are thus armed and ever ready to face immediate challenges, neighboring states were less likely to attack Israel, unless sin sapped their abilities and caused them to become complacent.
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