Public Policy and Religion

[Mizzouhunter]

Just a question guys. What is everyone's opinion on the separation of church and state? Can religious reasons be enough to support or oppose legislation?

As my name implies, I am in college (University of Missouri) and studying political science. I have a couple of classes that are discussion-type classes and it is interesting to see how many people automatically discount biblical reasoning. For example, we are talking about euthanasia and the legality (in response to Oregon's laws upholding the practice.) I have just found it is difficult to quote Scripture or use Jesus' teachings when talking about issues with others who aren't Christians. I guessit sort of makes me question my own reasons too. Is it enough to oppose gay marriage, abortion, etcbecause God says so?

(Sorry I am all over the board with this post. Just thought I would throw it out there.)

[Chuck7]

Yes big time. We as Christians do not separate Church and State. We still believe one nation under God. A nation which turns it's back on God will perish.
Chuck

[Charlie P]

Public Policy means for everyone, so I don't see how you can use the bible to establish public policy.

I have just found it is difficult to quote Scripture or use Jesus' teachings when talking about issues with others who aren't Christians.

Honestly why should it make an impact on them?

[Chuck7]

Charlie,
Look at any law.You can find it's roots in the Bible ...from Social Security found in 1 Tim3 to capitol punishment for murderers.
C7

[Mizzouhunter]

Just to add another twist: Do people that do not believe in God have the same rights as those of us who do? i.e. Are they God-given rights? Referring to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. If an atheist has the right to "liberty" does he have to conform to God's laws, if they are implemented into public policy?

[Charlie P]

We as Christians do not separate Church and State.

Good thing the founders did.

If an atheist has the right to "liberty" does he have to conform to God's laws, if they are implemented into public policy?

Not a free society like we have in the USA.

Look at the countries that use religion as public policy and tel me if you'de like to live there.

[Charlie P]

Look at any law.You can find it's roots in the Bible

I'm sure you can Chuck.

[Charlie P]

As Thomas Jefferson wrote in his Autobiography, in reference to the Virginia Act for Religious Freedom:

[blockquote]
"Where the preamble declares, that coercion is a departure from the plan of the holy author of our religion, an amendment was proposed by inserting "Jesus Christ," so that it would read "A departure from the plan of Jesus Christ, the holy author of our religion;" the insertion was rejected by the great majority, in proof that they meant to comprehend, within the mantle of its protection, the Jew and the Gentile, the Christian and Mohammedan, the Hindoo and Infidel of every denomination."

There is a reason that the consitution is secular.
[/blockquote]

[Chuck7]

Good thing the founders did.
Charlie P

To a certain extent I agree Charlie. I'm not as conservative as you may think Charlie P. Both extremes are dangerous. Extreme liberalism and conservative can be dangerous. Romans 13:1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
Do ya see where I am coming from using this verse Charlie. The powers / government laws are of God. I am not a churchey type person Charlie. I do have a lot o faith in God though.
God bless,
Chuck

[Charlie P]

The powers / government laws are of God.

Only if you believe in your God, the words in the bible and your translation of that verse.

With all due respect. That verse doesn't matter to a person that either doesn't believe in God, is of a different faith or is a Christian but doesn't agree with your intrepatation.