So, are we free?
Because of Christ, let me count the ways:
1. Freed from sin (John 8:31-34, Romans 6:5-10)
2. Freed from the law (Romans 8:2-4, Galatians 5:1-3)
3. Freed from the judgment of ourselves and men (1 Corinthians 4:3-4)
These are only a few ways and references of the freedom we have received in Christ. However, this isn’t the freedom I am questioning. The freedom I place in question is for those of us who are called Americans. Are we truly the land of the free?
After experiencing what I did this week in El, Salvador, I’m convinced otherwise.
My team and I were blessed with the opportunity to share the gospel of Christ with a local public high school. The principal actually canceled classes so that my team could come in and worship, perform dramas and share the good news of Christ with her students.
Could you imagine if an American public school principal, cancelled class to allow almost complete strangers the freedom to share what it means to live life for Christ?
How quickly would a lawsuit ensue? Do you think that principal would still have their job at the end of the week?
I know some schools will allow discussions on religion, but in those circumstances you must give an unbiased opinion on the subject. And it would be required that other world religions be taught as well. Don’t take me wrong. I think all world religions should be taught schools, far more than they are now. But I also believe, if we want to call ourselves a free nation, Christians must be allowed to enter schools and speak openly about their faith. If other, non-biblical, religions doctrine commands its followers to share their message; they should be allowed access to our youth as well. We have already allowed humanists to preach evolution in schools for years now. Why limit others?
Why have our schools become so closed off to religion? What do people see dangerous about Christianity? A worldview that teaches you are loved by an all knowing, unfailing, sovereign God. That works are not required to merit this love. That the greatest expression man can show of love is to lay down his life for his friends (John 15:13). That we as loved and created beings should show love to those who hate us, even our enemies; that we should bless and pray for those who curse us (Matt 5:44).
Why as a nation have we allowed this message to fall silent in our schools? I will argue that until Christ can be shared openly in our schools, to our youth (Matt 19:14), America will never truly be free.
What is amazing is that the students we visited listen intensely about the story of the world, and of Christ, and had questions wanting to know more about the hope and love we were sharing.
I love and miss you all. Christ lives and is reigning! God bless, Mark
