Counsels on Christian Worldview

Counsel #12 — What Happens When There Is No Religious Liberty?

Picture: Counsel #12 — What Happens When There Is No Religious Liberty? CCW 120.1

When religious and political power become one, it leads to oppression, persecution, and the misuse of scripture for political gain. Here are just a few historical cautionary examples of suppressing religious liberty, resulting in millions of deaths and devastated economies: CCW 120.2

• The Persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire (1st-4th centuries AD)
• The European Wars of Religion (16th & 17th Centuries)
• The Spanish Inquisition (1478-1834)
• The Holocaust (World War II)
• The Rwandan Genocide (1994)
• The Treatment of Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar (21st century)
• Religious Freedom Violations Rampant in China, Iran and India (2024)

Lack of religious freedom and respect for diverse beliefs fueled all these horrific conflicts and persecution, much of it perpetrated by persons who claimed to be followers of Christ. History demonstrates that violence often erupts when religious fervor and nationalism are used to justify hatred and intolerance.^[179] CCW 120.3

“Blessed are the peacemakers.” Matthew 5:9 NKJV CCW 120.4

“Let the restraints now imposed by secular governments be removed and Rome be reinstated in her former power, and there would speedily be a revival of her tyranny and persecution.” Ellen White in The Great Controversy, p. 564 CCW 120.5

Reflect: Do you feel it is important to defend religious liberty for those who do not share your religious beliefs? Why or why not? CCW 120.6