Review of:  Free to Believe

Luke Goodrich.  Multnomah Books, $24.00 (288p) ISBN 978-0-5256-5290-8

Goodrich, attorney at the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty who has argued and won multiple cases at the Supreme Court, explains the current state of religious liberty and how laws have influenced the American socio-political climate in his illuminating debut. Founded on the principle that “the government, within reasonable limits, leaves religion alone as much as possible,” Goodrich believes American openness to all religious practice promotes good works while protecting the rights of dissenters. Drawing on both legislative history and biblical lessons, he provides analysis of the five most deeply divisive challenges in our culture today: religious discrimination, abortion rights, gay rights, Islam, and the public square.  Goodrich encourages readers to look for ways to protect both sides when society is deeply divided on moral issues.  He stresses that separation of church and state is a good thing and that religion should be welcomed as an essential part of human culture.  He calls on Christians to turn to the example of Jesus when approaching these conflicts, striving to care for one in the interest of cultivating peaceful resolutions.  This is a must-read, especially for pastors, religious business owners, and others interested in the future of religious freedom in our country.  5 stars