Religious Freedom - the Way to Stronger Faith

We all understand that religious freedom is beneficial morally, good for our economy and security and makes for more friendly and less stressful neighbourhoods. At least, the vast majority can grasp these things. However, there’s another benefit that will seem obvious to the vast majority but it might be counterintuitive and some people might not have thought of it…

Freedom of religion – i.e. the freedom for people to believe what they think is true, to change their beliefs, to practice the peaceful activities that relate to their faith, to attend places of worship, and talk about their religion – this freedom of religion is great for our own religion.

I am confident that what I believe about god is true.

I am not threatened by the beliefs of my fellow citizens.

God is not threatened by the beliefs of my fellow citizens.

Disagreement and debate develops our knowledge and sharpens our mind, and so it strengthens our faith. When I understand more, my devotion is deepened. If we all intensify our convictions and our understanding of the holy teachings of the true religion, this must be a good thing for our religion overall.

Allowing free debate and discussion also means that we can convert people to the truth through reasoning rather than forcing them to hide their beliefs and keep them in the shadows. This must be a good thing for our religion and bring more honour.

It is certainly not good for our religion, personally or corporately if we bring shame on ourselves and our religion by bullying, harassing, imprisoning and persecuting peaceful minorities. People with bad religion who do not have a deep and strong religious understanding don’t want religious freedom as they are afraid they could be exposed for their stupidity, indiscipline, and lack of knowledge. If you disagree with me on this then justify yourself and God will judge who is right and which of us is motivated by fear, hatred, power or corruption. Thankfully not many of us think like this. Most of us are smart enough to recognise that freedom is good for all of us. Let’s stand together and unite in reshaping the way we relate to our fellow citizens, and how we live out and deepen our devotion to our religion.

We are // compatriots. We are // friends. We are // family. We are // diverse. We are // equal.

We are // United.