The First Amendment of the U. S. Constitution provides that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” We cherish that freedom, but sadly, some people seem to feel this means we should avoid religion or that we should water down our allegiance to Jesus the Christ. Nothing could be further from the truth. While the government is prohibited from establishing a particular religion, citizens are free to worship and express their faith without fear of government interference. That freedom is precious and followers of Jesus Christ should protect it. In Mark Chapter 13, Jesus told his followers on how to proceed if they are arrested for representing Him. “When you are arrested and stand trial, don’t worry in advance about what to say. Just say what God tells you at that time, for it is not you who will be speaking, but the Holy Spirit.” Our Lord wants His followers to stand firm for him—to stand for justice, righteousness, and faith in Christ as God’s Son–our only hope for the forgiveness of sins and eternal life. Our freedom of religion allows us to hold these precious truths, and we should never let them go.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
