#80 – Should the State be Religious? | Heart of Jesus – Ep. 10
We see two extremes in today’s world. On one hand we see states ruled by some religious sect which are often characterised by violence, fanaticism, and intolerance.
On the other we have highly secular states that outwardly seem more peaceful, but where the erosion of the spiritual foundation means there is no longer any moral standard for the people to follow.
In today’s talk you’ll hear how America was originally founded trying to go beyond these two extremes. Its founders were Christians who had broken off from the Church of England, wanting to establish a state based on spiritual principles but without fanaticism.
Unfortunately, just recently, a new Speaker of the House was elected who believes that the Bible is the only way and the only truth. Not only has this nothing to do with real religion, but this fanatic spirit is the root cause of the societal divide and hatred we see today.
Highlights:
- (1:14) About the new US Speaker of the House
- (9:18) How America was founded upon spiritual values
- (15:55) God is present in all His teachings, wherever they are to be found
- (24:54) Should we separate church and state? Description of the spiritual qualities.
- (34:56) Real religion means love; not a particular denomination. There is no room for fanaticism.
- (42:27) Purport on Matthew 7:21-23: Why did Jesus denounce his so-called followers and said “I never knew you”?
- (50:19) Jesus always spoke the truth, without being afraid. We should emulate divine qualities in ourselves.
Recorded on December 11, 2023.