Biblically Speaking

Tyranny
 
By Joe Graber
 
In the State of Michigan, a seminary may not be organized, may not operate, and may not issue degrees unless it is approved by the State bureaucrats.  The same state that forbids prayer and the teaching of creationism in public school as truth actually approves seminaries.
 
The bureaucrats make the seminaries put up so much cash (just like a university), even though most seminaries are supported by denominations or churches that they are affiliated with.  The bureaucrats put the schools through a series of visits and inspections...including the curriculum and programs...so that they can determine that the school is providing the education they deem appropriate.  The bureaucrats forbid the issuance of theological degrees without their approval, but, of course, they are just here to help us ignorant Christians understand how to teach our religion.  Who are they protecting? 
 
You can have the freedom of religion in Michigan, unless you want to do something meaningful.  You can teach a Sunday School as long as it is small and not really academically challenging, but don't deliver advanced theological training or issue degrees without genuflecting to the almighty state bureaucrat. 
 
This is true.  The law, MCL 450.171-177 along with the various bureaucratic rules are available for all to see.  I've been there when the friendly bureaucrats have visited to tell ministers of the gospel that they had to bow or cease operations. 
 
Separation of church and state?  I guess that since the state is approving seminaries and the programs that these "state approved" programs can be taught in public school...yeah right!  They want us to be separate...you know...the way lepers are kept separate.
 
God forbid that we have a seminary on every street corner.  We all know the riotous tendencies of preachers and the increase in drug traffic as well as crime that accompanies the proliferation of godly institutions. 
 
I wonder what the Apostles would have done? 
 
I am reminded of a particular incident at the end of Acts 5:
 

"And when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ."