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A Global Perspective on Religious Freedom
International religious freedom is fundamental to the human existence. It has deep roots in our human dignity and is a cornerstone of most moral and democratic societies. As Christians, yearning for the infinite love and wisdom of our Lord, we should champion its value and durability worldwide.
The Current State of Global Religious Freedom
As we navigate the 21st century, an alarming trend is tightening its grip across the globe: the curtailment of religious freedom. We see evidence of this in many forms. Brutal regimes subjugating religious minorities, authoritarian governments imposing atheism, and populaces endorsing anti-religious sentiment. These are all signs that the sacred right of religious freedom is under a severe and unrelenting assault.
The Threats
There is a global community of actors that perpetuates these threats against religious freedom. Extremist groups are exterminating religious minorities, sometimes with the silent endorsement of their home governments. Atheistic regimes are maintaining ironclad grips on the religious expression of their citizens. And finally, a prevailing culture of intolerance is simmering, where key tenets of faith are dismissed as irrelevant or harmful.
As Christians, it is our responsibility, no, our duty, to resist these trends and ensure that the Christian faith is protected, practiced, and promoted in every corner of the world.
The Implications of Diminished Religious Freedom
There are significant repercussions if we allow international religious freedom to dwindle.
- Societal instability will rise, as marginalized groups are excluded and persecuted.
- People will lose their moral compass, as governments supplant the role of religion.
- The health and breadth of our faith communities worldwide will be weakened.
Make no mistake, the risks of inaction in the face of diminishing religious freedom are real and catastrophic.
The Way Forward: A Call to Action
It’s time to marshal all our resources and rally all our energies, to stand against this tide of religious oppression.
- We need to lobby for international legislation that solidifies the universal right to freely practice religion.
- We must hold oppressive regimes accountable for their actions, using diplomatic, economic and military tools at our disposal.
- We should support organizations that work tirelessly to defend religious freedom.
- Finally, we must pray. Pray without ceasing for those persecuted for their faith, and for a world where everyone can worship without fear.
It is time for us to stand firm, for as 1 Corinthians 16:13 tells us, “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.”
Our Church, our faith, and our God demand nothing less from us. This is not simply a call to action—it is a call to our duty, as Christians, to ensure that the tenets of our faith continue to light the world.
