Counsels on Christian Worldview

Counsel #16 — Legislating Faith

Picture: Counsel #16 — Legislating Faith CCW 124.1

Coercion is antithetical to true faith, which thrives on genuine conviction. Just as God respects our free will, governments should too. Legislation dictating faith would not only infringe on religious liberty, but also weaken the integrity of religious expression. CCW 124.2

When compelled, belief becomes a hollow ritual, devoid of the love and commitment that defines true worship. A society where faith is legislated fosters hypocrisy.^[184] As Adventist Christians, we believe in promoting our faith freely, through sharing biblical truth, education, and compassionate acts of service. This is the path to genuine conversion to Jesus Christ, guided by the Holy Spirit. CCW 124.3

“Our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” Philippians 3:20 NKJV CCW 124.4

“Not by the decisions of courts or councils or legislative assemblies, not by the patronage of worldly great men, is the kingdom of Christ established, but by the implanting of Christ’s nature in humanity through the work of the Holy Spirit. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name….” John 1:12, 13. Here is the only power that can work the uplifting of mankind. And the human agency for the accomplishment of this work is the teaching and practicing of the word of God.” Ellen White in The Desire of Ages, pp. 509, 510 CCW 124.5

Reflect: What qualities differentiate genuine conversion from simply following religious rules? CCW 124.6