Government Interference in the Church

Our Constitution guarantees us freedom to exercise our faith without government intervention. That freedom is being challenged on a daily basis but we tentatively hold onto it even though some of it is deteriorating. But can you imagine trying to be a church in Russia? The government there has imposed strict rules of reporting that make the red tape almost impossible to overcome.

Christians in America must stay alert to government attempts to interfere in our freedom of religious expression. Because we are a secular country and give that freedom to any and all religions, even cases involving non-christian religions have ramifications on the church as these cases are heard and judgments are rendered.

Churches should practice sound accounting principles and are accountable to her members. But if government is allowed to intrude, the cost of filing paperwork, in time, personnel and resources, will chip away at resources that should be used in evangelism, ministering to the needy and equipping her members.