A commonly misunderstood portion of the Constitution comes from the First Amendment’s protection of religious liberty. Here is what it says:
“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof…”
The meaning is simple: Congress may not…
- Establish a national church or denomination.
- Infringe on a person’s free exercise of his religion.
In short: freedom of religion is about two things Congress cannot do with respect to religion. That’s it. It is not a command for the government to be secular or for Christians to be silent. Still, people can take freedom of religion and create a meaning that the founders never intended.
Here are two common myths.
Myth #1: Freedom of religion means the government has nothing to do with God.
Freedom of religion does not mean freedom from religion. Scripture is clear:
“God reigns over the nations; God sits on his holy throne” (Psalm 47:8).
Even more specifically, the Lord Jesus is enthroned above every nation, and all rulers are accountable to Him. Psalm 2 warns:
“Now therefore, O kings, be wise; be warned, O rulers of the earth.
Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling.
Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish in the way,
for his wrath is quickly kindled.
Blessed are all who take refuge in him” (Psalm 2:10–12).
The founders’ intention in prohibiting a national church (like the Church of England) or in protecting free exercise does not mean civil government is unaccountable to the true and living God. Scripture is crystal clear that it is.
The First Amendment prohibits Congress from stopping someone from freely practicing their faith. This shouldn’t be taken to mean Christians must privatize their obedience to Christ.
Myth #2: Freedom of religion means Christians should keep their faith private.
The marching orders that the Lord gave to His church is the discipling of the nations (Matthew 28:18–20). This includes the proclamation of the gospel in the public square. While Christians must never coerce or resort to violence, we are called to share Christ with unbelievers around us out of love for God and neighbor.
The simple, faithful preaching of the gospel is the duty of every Christian, and the First Amendment protects our freedom to do so.
Conclusion
Freedom of religion isn’t something believers should hide behind. It’s a liberty for which we should thank God and use well. It protects our ability to publicly honor Christ, proclaim His gospel, and labor to see our nation changed from the inside out.
