Religious Freedom and Secular State

"Religious freedom is one of the principles that defines the genius of America – but only a secular state can actually defend that principle for all of its citizens. Otherwise, we might have Indiana defending conservative Christian views and another state defending liberal Christian views; one state defending Sharia law and another writing the codes of Leviticus into the law books in favor of a Jewish majority." 

- Russ Dean

Read more: Why do so many Christians think we need government to prop up Jesus?

Who needs Religious Freedom?

Religious freedom has its obvious benefits. But in the long run, it contributes to the creation of institutionalism in various flavors as we see in countries that are open to religious freedom.

The unadulterated Gospel of Jesus Christ thrives in countries where there is absolutely no religious freedom. Christians there are not killed because of doctrinal differences. They are tortured and killed for their unwavering trust in the Name of Jesus.

It was His Name that put the early disciples in trouble. It was by that Name that they were conduits of countless miracles. It was by that Name that they turned the world upside down - all amidst the fierce opposition and persecution (for a detailed picture, read the Acts of the Apostles). To them it was all about Him.

Wherever that Name is oppressed, His Gospel (not churchianity) thrives. Perhaps we should pray that the religious freedom that we enjoy be taken away?