Called to Freedom

Probably my earliest memory of learning history in school was being taught about the pilgrims coming to North America on the Mayflower. Most on that voyage were looking to come to a land where a government would not tell them they had to practice a certain religion. It is why the Constitution of the United States starts out ensuring our religious freedoms with the first amendment.

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

first amendment, U.S. Constitution

Today, nearly 70% of the world’s population still live in countries where religious freedom does not exist. Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to visit India, one of those countries, and learned a little of the persecution Christians there endure.

Jesus told us we are to expect rejection and persecution (Matthew 5:11). However, in America, persecution is nothing compared to our brothers and sisters living in the 70% with no religious freedom. Persecuted Christians around the world experience burned homes and churches and being attacked and beaten, including imprisonment and sometimes death. (Check out The Voice of the Martyrs to learn more about persecuted Christians across the globe.)

While our first amendment guarantees us religious liberty, studies over the last seven years show the general population believes the state of religious freedom is in jeopardy.

What is causing this threat to our religious freedom, in particular, Christianity?

Studies have shown the younger generation, ages 16-29, is more skeptical of Christianity. With each generation, there are fewer and fewer Christians. Unlike the older generations which lived through a time in history where they experienced trials where they clung to the Lord, the younger generation is cynical of the “God” of their parents and grandparents. They may consider themselves “spiritual” but not “religious.” When people do not feel they need religion, they often have no care for religion freedom.

“By a three to one margin (71% to 26%) adults noted that they are personally more likely to develop their own set of religious beliefs than to accept a comprehensive set of beliefs taught by a particular church. Although born again Christians were among the segments least likely to adopt the a la carte approach to beliefs, a considerable majority even of born again adults (61%) has taken that route. Leading the charge in the move to customize one’s package of beliefs are people under the age of 25, among whom more than four out of five (82%) said they develop their own combination of beliefs rather than adopt a set proposed by a church.”

Christianity Is No Longer Americans’ Default Faith

God’s laws are no longer the law of the land. Increasing numbers show Americans believe the Bible is “just a book” written by men. It is no longer the sacred Word of God to many.

In a world of “believe in yourself” and “you can do anything you want,” we are making our new religion “the worship of self.” Our culture is obsessed with self-centeredness. It’s all about “what is in it for me?” It’s the opposite of Christianity in which we are other-centered.

I’m afraid part of what causes others to reject Jesus Christ is how Christians themselves are living. There’s no difference in the daily life between believers and nonbelievers.

Are we, as believers, turning others away from our Lord? Do interactions we have with nonbelievers leave this whole “child of God” thing undesirable? Are we showing Christ’s love to everyone? The easy-to-love and the less than lovely?

What can we do about the skepticism, the seemingly deteriorating of religious freedom, and the stark realization of the majority of the world who cannot openly worship Jesus Christ?

We must remember six words Jesus spoke that simply gives the answer. John 8:32, “the Truth shall make you free.” Jesus meant His Truth. His Word. His Spirit of truth. (John 14:6, John 17:17, John 16:13)

Our Savior knows how to free your marriage from turmoil and estrangement. He knows how to free you from destructive and sinful habits and attitudes. He knows how to free you from impure thoughts, gossip, jealousy, lying, and pride. He wants us to come to Him and receive His freedom.

In a world that teaches “freedom” is when you live the way you please, true freedom is knowing your absolute trust is in Jesus Christ. Then no matter if you live in the 70% or the 30% when it comes to religious freedom, you can know you have complete freedom because of Him.

How can we expect to preserve our religious freedoms for future generations if we do not live and teach others the freedom found in Christ?

As we commemorate Independence Day this week, contemplate whether you are representing Jesus Christ – our giver of freedom – well. If you cannot celebrate spiritual freedom, know the Lord offers a free gift so you can. We are called to freedom. 💕