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Think of the consequences if this definition survives on appeal—enshrining in federal law a definition of evangelicals as a narrow, mean-spirited minority. This ruling could be cited in cases where pastors publicly denounce homosexuality or pray in Jesus' name on public property. What will prevent a court from deciding what is and is not legitimate theology, according to the trendiest, most politically correct standards?

Hopefully, there will be an outcry from Christians. Courts are not indifferent to public attitudes, as we saw in the assisted-suicide case in 1997 (Washington v. Glucksberg).

We have to appeal and fight this decision. But in the process, evangelicals need to do some sober soul searching. For this judge's opinion is but a reflection of how many see us: coercive and bigoted.

The critical question is, do we play into the stereotypes, or do we reflect our rich heritage of abolishing the slave trade, defending human rights, and founding hospitals? This case is a challenge to define evangelicalism, no less before the bar of public opinion than before the bar of justice.

Copyright © 2006 Christianity Today. Click for reprint information.

Christianity Today covered the IFI ruling:

Imprisoned Ministry | The future of Prison Fellowship's rehabilitation program, and other faith-based social services, are in the hands of an appeals court. (July 14, 2006)

A copy of the decision is available from Americans United for Separation of Church and State.

Prison Fellowship's Mark Earley responded to the ruling in several radio shows, linked to from PF. He also wrote this op-ed in The Washington Post.

Russ Pulliam commented on the decision in the Indianapolis Star.

Recent Charles Colson columns for Christianity Today include:

Emerging Confusion | Jesus is the truth whether we experience him or not. (May 31, 2005)

Soothing Ourselves to Death | Should we give people what they want or what they need? (April 5, 2006)

A More Excellent Way | Changing the law isn't enough. (Jan. 23, 2006)

My Soul's Dark Night | The best of evangelicalism didn't prepare me for this struggle. (Dec. 7, 2005)

Machiavellian Morality | One reason teenagers, among others, are jammed in our prisons. (Sept. 22, 2005)

Verdict that Demands Evidence | It is Darwinists, not Christians, who are stonewalling the facts. (March 28, 2005)

The Moral Home Front | America's increasing decadence is giving aid and comfort to Muslim terrorists. (Sept. 23, 04)

Reclaiming Occupied Territory | The Great Commission and the cultural commission are not in competition. (July 21, 2004)

Societal Suicide | Legalizing gay marriage will lead to more family breakdown and crime. (May 24, 2004)

Evangelical Drift | Outsiders say we're the status quo. Our call is to prove them wrong. (March 29, 2004)

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August 2006, Vol. 50, No. 8