Religious Events by David Barton

What religious events in our history have changed in significance since they occurred?

There actually has been no change in the significance of any religious events from our history, only a change in how those events are portrayed. In the 1960s, textbooks adopted the faulty paradigm of teaching history known as the “Economic View of American History” under which only economic issues are emphasized. Consequently, in teaching the Declaration of Independence, of the 27 grievances listed, the only one covered in textbooks is grievance #17: taxation without representation. Other significant issues, including the numerous religious and moral issues behind the Revolution, are scarcely mentioned. Similarly, the Witch Trials are presented, showing that religion regrettably put to death twenty-one so-called witches; however, the six major religious revivals in American history and their benefits are ignored, including how that American independence was the result of the Great Awakening, and how revival movements led to the end of slavery, child labor, etc. Similarly, American colonization is presented only in economic terms, with the colonists seeking wealth and gold rather than religious liberties; and despite the fact that the propagation of the Gospel is listed as a primary motivation in every colonial charter, it is not mentioned in texts. In fact, one state just passed a law that it will no longer officially observe Thanksgiving or fund the teaching of Thanksgiving in school textbooks. Significantly, the way that a nation views its own history affects the way that nation behaves, and religious liberties and the positive aspects of religion are now largely ignored.

What evangelistic opportunities and obstacles will we face in the future?

The need for evangelism has not changed in two millennia, for man has not changed and has always needed and will always need the Gospel message. However, the obstacles to evangelism have definitely increased, especially in America. Many Christians fail to recognize that while our rights are Biblically-given, they must be politically protected. In fact, most are not even aware that the question of whether Christians can hand out Gospel material in public has reached all the way to the U. S. Supreme Court! Other long-standing religious rights recently challenged and taken to court include whether individuals may wear clothing or jewelry with Christian messages; college students may have a Bible study in their own dorm rooms; employees may pray privately, after work hours; homeowners may have prayer meetings or Bible studies in their own homes; or whether prayers using the word “Jesus” may be prayed in public.

Similarly, cases have been filed challenging whether churches may require their staff to abide by Biblical standards of morality; follow Matthew 18:15 in dealing with church members; have food pantry ministries, radio ministries, homeless ministries, Christian schools, television ministries, or Christian bookstores; expand their facilities on their own property; and whether cities may eliminate all churches through enacting “church-free zones” or prevent churches from entering a town.

Additionally, cases have been filed about whether kindergarten students may draw art posters with a picture of Jesus; high school students may write a research report about Jesus; or whether students may receive a Bible as a gift while at school, give their friends literature with religious references, or invite others to religious meetings.

There are numbers of other examples, and it is shocking that such basic rights are now objects of legal challenge. Nevertheless, it affirms that if citizens desire to exercise their God-given rights without penalty, they must have political protection to do so – they must elect leaders and judges who embrace God-fearing values and will protect God-given rights.