Blasphemy/Apostasy Laws

YOU HAVE HEARD THAT SOME COUNTRIES HAVE IMPLEMENTED BLASPHEMY LAWS...Some countries have already implemented a law against apostasy.

There are people who sincerely believe such laws can enforce respect for religion and respect for traditions. Even if the sentence for breaking these laws is death, they see some benefits for the society.

I don’t see any benefit in such oppressive legislation. It goes directly against the principle of religious freedom. It reminds us of the darkest period of the Middle Ages in Europe when apostates and heretics were burned on the bonfires or tortured.

I am opposed to this kind of legislation because it contradicts the freedom of choice God has given to every human being:  The freedom to follow Him or not, the freedom to love Him or not.

Religion is not an obligation, religion is a choice. Nobody is forced to love God and to follow Him.

We love God and obey Him because we have decided to do so in response to His great love, in response to His call.

Religion is a relationship.  The religion I believe in is a relationship of love with a God who loves me and respects me; with a God who gave me the freedom to love Him. There is no love without the freedom to love.

This is why I believe in religious freedom for all people everywhere.

--Dr. John Graz, Secretary General, International Religious Liberty Association