A MISAPPLICATION by Editor

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Feb 4, 1889

A MISAPPLICATION.

By Editor

A Rev. Francis Rand, in the Christian Nation of January 9, says that Christianity "is the legitimate religion of the Republic." "It is impossible for America, in the line of her patriotic history, to be kept apart from Christianity in the cause of her liberty;" and then he quotes from W. E. Channing, as in harmony with what he says, as follows:—

"This at least we know, that equal rights and an impartial administration of justice, have never been enjoyed where this religion has not been understood. It favors free institutions, first, because its spirit is the very spirit of liberty; that is, a spirit of respect for the interests and rights of others. Christianity recognizes the essential equality of mankind."

Mr. Rand's statement, that "Christianity is the legitimate religion of the Republic," is essentially false. It is impossible for a republic to be religious. The Republic is not an entity; it is not a responsible individual. It has no soul to save. It cannot repent or believe. It is made up of the individuals of many nations and climes, of all beliefs and practices; and the infidel is just as much entitled to citizenship under the Constitution, other things being equal, as a Christian. The law of a nation may declare it to be Christian, but that does not alter its character. Facts are stubborn things.

Further, Dr. Channing's statement is not at all in harmony with Mr. Rand's. The understanding of the principles of the Christian religion, and the embodying of those principles in statute law, are two widely different things. And just as soon as this nation professes Christianity through law, it has passed that point where those who are responsible for such actions can have "respect for the interests and rights of others;" and it will not recognize "the essential equality of mankind." The difference between the meaning of Mr. Rand's words and those of Dr. Channing, which he quotes in his support, is the difference between tyranny and liberty. It is only one of the many misapplications for which National Reformers are noted.