For many years CSW has been at the forefront of championing freedom of religion for Christians. Indeed, it is widely accepted that followers of Christianity suffer more for their faith than followers of other religions.

Nevertheless, where Christians are intimidated, discriminated against or harassed, very often followers of other faiths will also experience the same things. It is a fundamental tenet of the Christian faith that our God loves and is concerned for all his children – whether they profess Christianity or not. Indeed, God has given each human being the choice to follow him or not. 

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:10

Yet we may ask, on what grounds does a Christian defend the freedom of a person of another faith? Can a Christian understand the particular language of suffering of victims of other faiths? And is it biblical or even wise for a faith-based activist to speak up for the right of an atheist, for example, to hold their position peacefully?

No inherent contradiction

As a strongly Christian organisation we have considered these questions prayerfully, and we would suggest there is no inherent contradiction in defending religious freedom for all, while believing that Jesus Christ is the only way. Promoting religious freedom for all in no way entails an endorsement of other faiths or beliefs.

The concept of religious freedom for all demands conversation and genuine respect for the values of other faiths and beliefs, but it is neither multi-faith nor interfaith. It relies on a universal principle of reciprocal respect. It does not require us to support extremism, hate speech or intolerance in any form.

The practical argument

It is also supremely practical. There will be two outcomes to a Christian defending a Baha’i in Iran, or a Muslim in Sri Lanka: Firstly, it gives us credibility when we defend Christians in Nigeria. Secondly, the defence of non-Christians helps to create a society where all faiths, including the Christian faith, are respected.

This brings us back to the fundamental belief that God himself gives us freedom to follow him or not. As Christians, therefore we work to defend everyone’s freedom to follow their own faith or beliefs as they choose. Christian activists who recognise this principle of free will, find the call to religious freedom for all utterly compelling.