Freedom from Offense or Banning the Bible?

As for the idea that we should be free from being offended, if the government enforces that principle, then freedom of religion and freedom of speech and freedom of the press will cease to exist for everyone. One non-Christian who understands this is Terry Sanderson, president of England’s National Secular Society, who made the following comment about Attleborough Baptist Church’s “hell sign.” “[We fought] a long battle of freedom of speech together with Christian groups because we believe that freedom of speech is essential to a functioning society. If you don’t give it to everybody then it isn't free speech and as long as they aren't inciting violence or trying to get people to do things that are against the law then I think it is acceptable to say whatever you want to say.’ Mr Sanderson added that if he felt uncomfortable with the sign, he would put up one himself--and said that police activity over the message was equivalent to ‘banning the Bible’” (“Police investigate Attleborough church ‘hate incident,” Wymondham and Attleborough Mercury, June 9, 2014). It appears that the British government is determined to ban the Bible through its “hate crimes” legislation, and this is the result of the nation’s apostasy. Only fervent prayer-driven revival will change things. “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” (James 5:16).

(Friday Church News Notes, June 13, 2014, www.wayoflife.org, fbns@wayoflife.org, 866-295-4143)

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