State-supported and Free Churches
By W. F. Martin
THE other day, we happened upon some thoughts that show in a forcible manner the advantages of a free over a state-established church. One of the first is that state-supported churches are less liberal than those which depend upon voluntary contributions. This brings with it the blessings of self-support and self-government. Christianity is thus thrown upon its own resources, and compelled to plan for any advance work it may choose to undertake, as well as to secure the money necessary to finance the undertaking. This money will, of necessity, come from the church itself, thus cultivating a spirit of liberality in its members. It will also bind the hearts of its members closer to the church and its work. “Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” This voluntary system of church support develops individual activity and liberality in the support of religion. This function can be exercised till it becomes a second nature. Experience has also taught that where churches are supported by voluntary contributions, there will actually be more people who will attend church, and there will be more church buildings than where the church is supported by the state. Self-support of the church at home goes hand in hand with liberality for the advancement of the cause of the church abroad. Experience has taught that the most liberal givers for the foreign work are those who give the most liberally for the home work. Liberality in one direction educates for liberality in all directions. Last but greatest of all, a state-supported or an endowed church means a paralysis of spirituality to the members of that church. There is a great truth, not always understood, in the statement of the Master, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”