Over our lifetimes we will read arguments from differing sides, bickering over what the Separation of Church and State mean.
Some will claim that it means, that there should be a blank slate in regards to religion. A lack of religion, a void or emptiness. The problem with this is that the lack of religion is in itself a discrimination of those who practice. Because, to remove religion, to make all things void of religion, is to enslave the freedom of another person. People should be afforded the choice to choose if they want to accept Christ as their Savior, rub the belly of Buddha or believe in nothing.
Matthew 6:1 ““Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.”
I believe that this verse applies to the quandary of “Separation of Church and State”. For if we have chosen Christ as the ultimate sacrifice, the Messiah, the Lamb of God – we are choosing for ourselves. It is not a performance piece or an artistic arrangement. This is our life, our breath and our choice.
Those who chose to force their religious views upon others are not doing so to “save” others, but to appear “Godly” toward their human brethren. This is a violation of human freedom, as much as denying a person the choice to choose to repent to God.
The separation was created because the laws of a state, of a country can often cause internal conflict for a Believer. God says “Thou shalt not kill” (no chop chop, no stabby stabby!) but during times of war or conflict, people who chose to be employed by the military are required to kill, and God understands this.
The Bible addresses military service both directly and indirectly. (Matthew 8:5-13) “The Christian men and women who serve their country with character, dignity, and honor can rest assured that the civic duty they perform is condoned and respected by our sovereign God” (http://www.gotquestions.org/military-Christian.html)
The BIble understands that there is a difference between Biblical law and the Laws of Man (State, Federal…)
It is not our duty as Christians to enforce God’s laws. It is our duty to be good people, to live good lives and to be an example to others. We are not here to force anyone to convert, Sharing does not involve forcing anyone to do something they don’t want or welcome.
This means, do not embarrass your companions. Do not degrade and humiliate them because you think it brings them closer to God, or makes you feel superior. Share your love, share your kindness, share your happiness – be a LIGHT on to mankind, be an example. Let them see the good work in you, in silence.
Separation of Church and State is not a destruction of Christianity, it is not a removal of Christ. It is an understanding of the difference between Gods laws and mans laws. It is also intended as a means to ensure that when people find Christ, it is by their choice. For God, our almighty Father wants us to choose to turn to his love, because if we are forced, coerced, bullied, or humiliated to following him, than that is an abomination.
The Bible does not support forced conversion. Reflect upon a verse from Timothy that essentially states that if we force others, we share in their sin.
| 1 Tim 5:22 | Do not lay hands upon anyone too hastily and thereby share responsibility for the sins of others; keep yourself free from sin. |
We are free to believe in our God, and others are free to believe in what they will. That is where the law of the land intersects with the Word of God.
By living just, Faith filled lives, we are fulfilling our obligation to God and helping others.
You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
(Matt. 5:14-16 NKJ)
Heavenly Father, I ask for your guidance. I am so blessed to have a relationship with You and I deeply desire to bring others to the fold. However, I ask that You guide me to a more subtle approach – let me be one of Your lights, let my actions shine louder than my words. Amen.
discerntheword 