Counsel #19 — Threats To Religious Liberty In The United States CCW 141

Picture: Counsel #19 — Threats To Religious Liberty In The United States CCW 141.1

The ideal of religious liberty, while enshrined in many constitutions, faces challenges around the world. Here’s a look at some violations in the United States: CCW 141.2

• Discrimination: Religious minorities can face discrimination in employment, housing, and education. For example, some employers might have policies that conflict with days of worship (such as the 7^th day Sabbath), certain religious dress codes or other observances.^{[229]https://firstamendment.mtsu.edu/article/seventh-day-adventists/}
• Government Overreach: Sometimes, government regulations can restrict religious practices deemed disruptive or physically harmful. This requires a balancing act between religious freedom and public safety.
• Accommodation vs. Coercion: Debates arise around "religious accommodation" laws, which allow for exemptions from certain rules for religious reasons. Critics argue these can infringe on the rights of others.
• Project 2025 is a proposed plan that could threaten religious liberty by enforcing a specific religious viewpoint, potentially infringing on the rights of those with different beliefs.
CCW 141

“Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb and spoke like a dragon.” Revelation 13:11^{[230]https://www.amazingfacts.org/media-library/study-guide/e/4998/t/the-usa-in-bible-prophecy} CCW 141.3

“Yet this very class [religious leaders] put forth the claim that the fast-spreading corruption is largely attributable to the desecration of the so called ‘Christian sabbath,’ and that the enforcement of Sunday observance would greatly improve the morals of society. This claim is especially urged in America…” Ellen White in The Great Controversy, p. 587 CCW 141.4

Reflect: How does the quote from Revelation 13:11 relate to the concept of religious liberty? CCW 141.5