Picture: Counsel #12 — What Happens When There Is No Religious Liberty? CCW 134.1
When religious and political power become one, it leads to oppression, persecution, and the misuse of scripture for political gain. Here are just a few historical cautionary examples of suppressing religious liberty, resulting in millions of deaths and devastated economies: CCW 134.2
Lack of religious freedom and respect for diverse beliefs fueled all these horrific conflicts and persecution, much of it perpetrated by persons who claimed to be followers of Christ. History demonstrates that violence often erupts when religious fervor and nationalism are used to justify hatred and intolerance.[221]https://www.adventistliberty.org/as-the-world%E2%80%99s-attention-is-focused-elsewhere,-religious-freedom-abuses-continue CCW 134.3
“Blessed are the peacemakers.” Matthew 5:9 NKJV CCW 134.4
“Let the restraints now imposed by secular governments be removed and Rome be reinstated in her former power, and there would speedily be a revival of her tyranny and persecution.” Ellen White in The Great Controversy, p. 564 CCW 134.5
Reflect: Do you feel it is important to defend religious liberty for those who do not share your religious beliefs? Why or why not? CCW 134.6
