Religious Intolerance
/ree-LIJ-us in-TOL-er-uns/
Summary
Religious intolerance in Scripture refers to both godly zeal against idolatry and sinful persecution of true believers, with the latter condemned while the former is commended when properly applied.
☩Godly Zeal Against Idolatry
Scripture commands separation from idolatry and false worship. Israel was forbidden to make covenants with Canaanite nations or tolerate their idolatrous practices. This was not intolerance of persons but faithfulness to God's covenant standards.
Key verses:Deuteronomy 7:1-51 Kings 18:40
☩Persecution of the Righteous
Scripture condemns persecution of believers by unbelievers or religious authorities. Jesus warned His disciples they would be persecuted, and Paul testified to persecuting the church before his conversion. Such intolerance stems from hatred of truth.
Key verses:John 15:20Acts 8:1-3Galatians 1:13
Related Verses17 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Toleration," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. X (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Tolerance," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. V (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).