BVOV Magazine 2013 - present

That court identified actions that the government did have legitimate reason to intrude upon. Those activities included human sacrifice, polygamy, infanticide, promotion of immorality, etc. Such acts, even in the name of religion, would be stopped by the government since they were “subversive of good order” and “overt acts against peace.” However the government was never to interfere with traditional religious practices—public prayer, use of the Scriptures, public acknowledgements of God, etc.—outlined in “the Books of the Law and the Gospel.” Original Intent If Thomas Jefferson’s letter is to be used today, let its context be clearly given. Earlier courts viewed his Danbury letter for what it was: a personal, private letter to a specific group. There is probably no other instance in America’s history where the words of an individual in a private letter—words clearly divorced from their context—have become the sole authorization for a national policy. A proper analysis of Mr. Jefferson’s views must include his numerous other statements on the First Amendment—not just that of the Danbury letter. For example, in addition to statements previously noted, he also declared that the “power to prescribe any religious exercise…must rest with the States.” Federal courts ignore this declaration and choose rather to misuse his separation phrase to strike down scores of state laws which encourage or facilitate public religious expressions. Such rulings are a direct violation of the words of the very one from whom the courts claim to derive their policy. They should consider the intent of the Founding Fathers who framed the First Amendment. Their months of discussions and debates are recorded in the Congressional Record, and the phrase “separation of church and state” never occurred. It seems logical that if this had been the intent for the First Amendment, at least one of those 90 would have mentioned it. None did. “Separation of church and state” has been described as a “misleading metaphor” by Supreme Court Justice William Rehnquist since the current meaning is almost exactly the opposite of what was originally intended. As Christians we need to pray for our country and for those in authority to come to the knowledge of the truth. Join us in spreading the message of the founders’ original intent for the First Amendment. V David Barton is the founder and president of WallBuilders, a pro-family organization that presents America’s forgotten history and heroes wit an emphasis on our moral, religious and constitutional heritage. For more information go to wallbuilders.com. ********** ADVERTISEMENTS ********** Don’t be misled by popular revisionist history! Signature historian David Barton unveils the true and forgotten history of America’s founding, inviting you to return to those foundations. This beautifully illustrated Bible includes hundreds of historical paintings and over 40 articles by David Barton. Also included are over 450 pages of embedded commentary from the Founders. "The Founders’ Bible" "New American Standard" hardback edition $29.99 reg $59.99 #B200402 kcm.org/mag 1-800-600-7395 (U.S. only) FREE standard shipping included. Offer price valid until April 30, 2020 ***************************************** ***************************************** 2020 Application Deadline June 30 Kenneth Copeland Bible College™ “Our curriculum is focused on developing a real-life faith that will equip every student with practical tools for ministry and life, as well as spiritual depth and maturity.” —Dr. Tony Erby Dean and Chief Academic Officer ● Courses based on the foundational teachings of Kenneth Copeland ● Electives to further your unique ministry callings ● Well-known instructors who’ve lived what they teach ● Experiential learning both inside and outside the classroom ● Affordable tuition at $1800 per semester ● Fully accredited, earn your associate degree in biblical studies FOR MORE INFORMATION KCBIBLECOLLEGE.ORG +1-817-420-8100 WATCH VIDEOS Hear student testimonies and learn more about KCBC. Fall 2020 Schedule Begins Aug. 24 Application Fee $100 ****************************************** BVOV : 25

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