Religious freedom and the resurrection

As predicted, the much talked about and soon to be debated conversion therapy legislation by NSW Independent MP Alex Greenwich will no doubt restrict expression of religious belief and freedom of conscience.

Education is the start of religious freedom and a vital freedom for faith-based schools to act in such a way so as to protect the integrity of belief within its institutions. It is essential our faith-based schools are free to present the fullness of their beliefs to students and can get a commitment from staff to support and uphold these beliefs even if some may have personal reservations.

This Easter we will see once again the anti-Christian lobby attack, ridicule, demean, and mock, like they did Jesus, those that wish to express and declare their faith in public. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of our Christian faith (1 Cor 15:17).

It is clear we urgently need a Religious Discrimination Act to protect religious freedom both for individuals and communities of believers. Without such an Act, not only will religious faith continue to be greatly undermined and threatened in Australia, but so too will the very foundation and stability of democracy.

But wait.

For the Christian tradition, the bodily resurrection was the restoration to life of a transformed body powered by spirit as described by Paul and the Gospel authors, that led to the establishment of Christianity.

So here is the good news. Rev. Hon Fred Nile MLC will be 'resurrecting' his Religious Freedom Bill which is an Act 'to amend the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 to prohibit discrimination on the ground of a person's religious beliefs or religious activities and to prohibit public authorities and officials from subjecting faith-based institutions to detrimental treatment on the ground of faith; and for other purposes.'

The Anti-Discrimination Amendment (Religious Freedoms) Bill 2018 will, once the legal drafting team has updated some dates along with a certificate of readiness, will be introduced, God-willing, in May 2022. Ut In Omnibus Glorificetur Deus