Book Reviews

Endangered Speeches Book Review by Mike Ramey

by Mike Ramey
11/28/20
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“Freedom has its difficulties and is not perfect, but we have never had to put a wall up to keep our people in.”

--President John F. Kennedy

“Endangered Speeches”

    While our opening quote may be familiar to some, the issues surrounding freedom of religion—especially dealing with the matter of worship and commentary from the pulpits of churches and other religious institutions—should be familiar to all.  Unfortunately, there are some in America who have made it their business to trample on the rights of preachers and pastors concerning their commenting on both biblical and social issues.

     Politics is a part of the world system.  The Christian is in the world…but is not of the world.  We are called to give Caesar what belongs to him.  We who are Christians are also called to let the world know where it is wrong.  Politics and political figures are not exempt from examination from the pulpit and the pew.  Our KJV Bibles and our votes DO matter. 

     Thus, there is a genuine need for both historical and current information on the issue of the rights of the church when it comes to what is declared from the pulpit.  William J. Federer has put together yet another great and easy-to-follow book.  This updated work gives a solid view of free speech as it involves our churches: “Endangered Speeches:  How The ACLU, IRS & LBJ Threaten Extinction of Free Speech” (2010, 2008; 243 pages, Amerisearch, Inc.)  It is the type of reference book that many pastors (and 501C3 organizations) need to evaluate their status in our culture wars.

     In light of what the church has been experiencing over the last few years concerning the 501 C3 issue, Federer’s book provides some much needed historical speeches, observation and commentary on how the Johnson Amendment came to be; how the American Civil Liberties Union (a 501C3 organization) continues to grow in strength and monetary clout, and why the American church pulpit must stand up for the Bible in light of those who seek to erase the proud history which has been entrusted to her in order to remain strong in these last days.

     Some of the included chapters are: “Religion & Politics”, “Why Churches Fear”, “One 501C3 Silences Another” and “ACLU & Islamic Intolerance”.  Federer also includes a chapter of resources which churches and pastors could use to defend themselves from government (or other) types of assault from forces who may seek to silence a bold pastor and congregation.  “Endangered Speeches” is the type of book needed in our current age as an additional weapon of truth to help both pastors and religious organizations.  It may be purchased from your favorite electronic book seller or from www.americanminute.com.

     Mike Ramey is a Minister, syndicated columnist, book reviewer and consultant.  “On Line Reviews” is one of a variety of regular column titles which Ramey has in cyberspace from Barnstorm Communications International.  If you care to drop him a line, or a whine, feel free to reach him at [email protected]. ©2020 Barnstorm Communications International.