As the pastor of a large church, I’m often asked to sign petitions or declarations. I generally do not take part in many of them. But The Manhattan Declaration was one that hits so squarely on the foundational beliefs that I hold so dear, that I couldn’t not sign it.
About 150 evangelical, Orthodox and Catholic leaders signed the statement, which was released to the media last Friday. You can click here to read the nearly 5,000-word declaration in its entirety, but basically it defends three core issues—the sanctity of human life, biblical marriage and uncompromising religious liberty. All three are issues that, unfortunately, are in grave danger in our great country today. I am providing just a few words here on what the declaration states:
Because we honor justice and the common good, we will not comply with any edict that purports to compel our institutions to participate in abortions, embryo destructive research, assisted suicide and euthanasia, or any other anti-life act; nor will we bend to any rule purporting to force us to bless immoral sexual partnerships, treat them as marriages or the equivalent, or refrain from proclaiming the truth, as we know it, about morality and immorality and marriage and the family. We will fully and ungrudgingly render to Caesar what is Caesar’s. But under no circumstances will we render to Caesar what is God’s.
We cannot stand by and do nothing as religious organizations are asked to do what goes completely against their foundational beliefs and convictions. I urge you to read the document, stand steadfastly by your convictions and pray that the Lord will protect this great country and the beliefs it was founded upon.
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3 comments:
I am thankful to have a pastor who is not afraid to make a stand on the essential cultural issues of our day. I stand beside you as one who will support our Lord's commands on these beliefs.
In these dark days, it is heartening to finally see that our spiritual leaders are taking a stand against all the outrageous legislation and secular attacks undermining the basic tenets of our faith. I cheer Pastor Graham and all those who sign the Manhattan Declaration. If Christians are not brave enough to stand up and speak up when our faith is under attack, how can we be salt and light to the rest of the world?
Thank you, Pastor Graham. I trust your leadership completely, and have joined you in adding my online signature and support. I pray for many who call on the name of the Lord to choose unified action over divided inaction.
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