3/1/2013 - March 2013 SLI Newsletter

March 2013

Dear Friends and Supporters,

Did you read recently where Tim Tebow decided not to speak at a Baptist church because of the church’s position against same sex marriage, that Mormonism is a cult, and similar issues?  We do not know the whole background and it is always difficult to comment intelligently.  Tebow is a good man and perhaps that church was not the best place to speak.  However, it is important to note that at least one news article characterized that church as a “hate church.” 

Is it improper for a church to vocally and visibly take a stand on biblical issues like sodomy, false religion, abortion and other issues of today?  I expect most of our pastors have preached on all of these sins.  We are seeing the beginning of Christian speech characterized as hate speech in America.  Mainstream thought and political correctness are all that is permitted in the new civil discourse.  No condemnation of another’s activities is permitted.

SLI works on many of these issues.  We are available to advise churches, ministries and other organizations on issues of “hate speech.”  Remember, it is important to hate the sin but love the sinner.  For all of us, staying with our message and not being marginalized will be one of our tasks.  We will see multiple crossings of legal/political/theological lines.

This month’s Educational Update focuses on several legislative bills on which we have been working in the 2013 regular session which began in February.  We have had very good success this year, initially and principally as a result of the support of Speaker Mike Hubbard and the Republican House caucus.  We are seeing many Representatives and Senators step up and exhibit significant leadership qualities.  We saw the House spend an entire day passing sanctity of life bills.  At the same time, we see continued frivolous procedural maneuvering by opponents wasting valuable time that the legislature could be using to pass substantive, meritorious, and important laws. 

This time of year is always very difficult for us.  It is very stressful both personally and financially.  Please pray for our efforts.  Thank you for your continuing financial support.

If you have any questions about legislation, legal issues or need related advice, please do not hesitate to contact us.  With personal regards and best wishes, I am,

                                                                                    Yours very truly,

  

                                                                                    A. Eric Johnston

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