An Introduction

I am a Christian. My religion shapes my understanding of this world, and also the one that transcends it. Our Lord has instructed us to be "in the world," but not "of it" (John 17: 16-18). As I understand it, to be "in the world" is to participate fully in the goodness of Creation, to be a good steward of what the Lord has given me, and to live the Gospel not just on Sunday at church, but everyday and everywhere.

I am blessed to live at this time and in the United States of America where the First Amendment of the Constitution proclaims:

"Congress shall pass no law respecting the establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof...."

In this country (and every country for that matter) I am "free" to live out the Gospel message, but usually not without consequence. In some instances I may face societal and cultural anathemas for "coming out" from under my bushel basket (Matt 5:15); I might even be prosecuted by the state. The Christian is increasingly finding his or her "liberty" attenuated and the price of living that freedom for which we have been set free more costly (Gal 5:1). Although this may be a cross we must bear for being disciples of Jesus, as American Christians we must respectfully remind our fellow citizens that we have the right to freely exercise our religion recognizing that others may freely choose to live their lives differently than we do.

The essays that follow discuss some of the fundamental philosophical and theological issues that have led me to the conclusion that libertarianism is not only the best political and social environment for the flourishing of the Christian life in America, but for all its citizens whether they be religious or not. I would recommend that you read the essays in order as the ideas build upon each other. As always, my intent is to promote clarity of understanding although agreement is always welcome.

Next: Freedom vs. Liberty