Document Type
Book
Publication Date
2019
Abstract
In this publication, it will be argued that the Bible supports an expansive view of religious liberty. This is seen in the Bible’s use of persuasion, not coercion, as the means of drawing followers to Christ. Moreover, the Bible presents faith as a spiritual reality that cannot be forced on people if it is to be genuine. This is why the Bible envisions a society where religious liberty is respected and individuals make their own choices when it comes to religion.
These ideas will be unpacked in two primary areas: (1) key biblical texts that support a broad understanding of religious freedom, and (2) key theological arguments based on those texts—specifically those made by Roger Williams, which help illustrate how Christians applied the Bible’s teaching on religious liberty during an era when this freedom was denied to religious minorities in the American colonies and around the world.
Recommended Citation
Closson, David, "Biblical Principles for Religious Liberty: Evidence from Scripture and Church History" (2019). Christian Worldview. 2.
https://digitalshowcase.oru.edu/christianworldview/2
