Bill C-9... No problem

I’ve had many people ask me my thoughts on the controversial Bill C-9 which became law a few months ago in Canada. I've avoided commenting on it because I don’t usually speak about politics. But since the question has popped up several times in several places I thought I would address it. This is about as much political talk as you will ever get from me. So here it is.

For those who don’t know Bill C-9 has been labelled the Combating Hate Act. It was designed to strengthen existing laws regarding hate speech and “to strengthen protections for communities being made to feel afraid because of who they are, how they worship, or where they gather.”

This doesn’t seem to be a problem,,, on its face. But during the legislative process, an amendment removed the long-standing "good faith religious expression defence" for criminal hate speech. Meaning, this new law may now criminalize a pastor who preaches sermons on biblical texts which may be seen by some groups as hate speech, or individuals who quote those same texts in public spaces. (The texts in question would be no doubt include those related to sexuality and marriage.)

The question I get asked is something like this -- Are you concerned? Will this change what you preach or how you preach? Will this change the way CRC does things.

My answer is a firm 'no' to all of the above. My reasons are simple.

First, and I encourage you to reflect on this one, "For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God." (Romans 13:1b) Our government is secular and they will act like it. So I should never be surprised by their actions when they turn on the Christian church. But, we know that nothing that do is outside the realm of God's sovereign will. God is ALWAYS the one in perfect and complete control. (If you want to hear my sermon on Romans 13:1-7 check it out here)

Second, I will follow the example of Peter and the other apostles who boldly declared before the religious leaders of their day that they will obey God rather than men. (cf Acts 5:29) Which means, practically, CRC will continue to preach expositional sermons from the whole counsel of God. We won't avoid passages because they speak about culturally sensitive topics.

In other words, we’ll keep doing what we’ve always done.

Soli Deo Gloria