Counsels on Christian Worldview

Counsel #25 — The U.S. Constitution

Picture: Counsel #25 — The U.S. Constitution CCW 133.1

While many democracies share similar principles, the U.S. Constitution uniquely protects religious liberty.^[198] The First Amendment's "Free Exercise Clause" guarantees the right to practice any faith freely (the government cannot make any law "respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof"), while the "Establishment Clause" prevents government favoritism toward a religion, or establishing a state-sponsored church, or legislating Sunday observance (as an example). This two-pronged approach ensures both religious freedom and the separation of church and state. Individuals can hold and practice their beliefs without government interference or promotion of a specific religion. This delicate balance is a cornerstone of American democracy.^[199] CCW 133.2

“Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.” Galatians 5:6 NKJV CCW 133.3

“’The framers of the Constitution recognized the eternal principle that man’s relation with his God is above human legislation, and his rights of conscience inalienable…. It is this consciousness which, in defiance of human laws, has sustained so many martyrs in tortures and flames. They felt that their duty to God was superior to human enactments, and that man could exercise no authority over their consciences. It is an inborn principle which nothing can eradicate.’‒Congressional documents (U.S.A.), serial No. 200, document No. 271.” Ellen White in The Great Controversy, p. 295 CCW 133.4

Reflect: What, if anything, do you find troubling about current initiatives to merge church and state, politics and religion, in the United States? CCW 133.5