Why Christians Should Defend Freedom of Speech
As followers of Christ, we must allow freedom of speech—even when questions challenge our faith—because honest seekers often ask profound questions.
One of the most common is this:
“What about the people who never heard about Jesus, the Father, the Son, or the Holy Spirit? Do they go to hell?”
The most honest answer is: we don’t fully know. Only God, who is perfectly just and merciful, can judge the heart.
What Jesus Taught About the Greatest Commandments
In Mark 12:28-31 (KJV), a scribe asks Jesus which commandment is greatest. Jesus replies:
28 And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all?
29 And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord:
30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.
31 And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.
Jesus reveals that love—for God and for others—is the foundation of the law.
So if someone has never heard the Gospel, the next question becomes: Do they love truth? Do they sense there is something greater than themselves?
Faith and Accountability
An atheist outright rejects God’s existence. An agnostic admits uncertainty but remains open to the idea of a higher power. A primitive tribe, though lacking Scripture or theological language, may still sense a divine Creator through nature and conscience.
Scripture reminds us that:
“Evil shall slay the wicked: and they that hate the righteous shall be desolate.” — Psalm 34:21
Those who harden their hearts against truth and goodness condemn themselves, while those who humbly seek what is right may be nearer to God than they realize.
David’s Example: A Heart After God
The books of Samuel show King David’s heart for God.
Even when Saul pursued him unjustly, David refused to harm Saul, saying, “I will not stretch forth mine hand against the Lord’s anointed.”
David’s reverence for God—his willingness to obey even when wronged—reveals what it means to love God “with all your heart.”
When Jesus healed on the Sabbath, He demonstrated the same truth: that loving God and others sometimes transcends ritual. God looks at the heart’s intent, not only at external forms.
Why Christians Share the Gospel
If people who have never heard of Christ may still experience God’s mercy, why evangelize?
Because knowing Christ brings light, clarity, and protection.
Without the Word of God, a person has little defense against deception.
A “slick-talking devil” can mimic goodness for a while, offering temporary pleasure or comfort, but only Scripture reveals Satan’s true nature.
The Bible is not just a book—it’s a shield. It exposes evil and strengthens discernment.
Faith, Freedom, and Prosperity
As Christians, we believe God gives us freedom of choice—even in economics and daily life. Some may genuinely love God yet hold opposing views on wealth or fairness.
But we must remember: riches and poverty alike test the heart.
Jesus said it is hard for the rich to enter the Kingdom, not because wealth itself is evil, but because comfort often replaces dependence on God.
When people envy others’ blessings instead of thanking God for their own, they drift into bitterness.
Wealth, when viewed rightly, becomes a tool for gratitude and service—not an idol.
This is why biblical wisdom and financial wisdom go hand in hand: both require stewardship and humility.
Different Paths, Same Purpose
Consider groups like the Amish: they live simply and faithfully according to their understanding of Scripture.
They are not “better” or “less” than modern Christians. They have chosen a way of life they believe honors God.
Likewise, a remote tribe that senses there is a divine protector may not know His name—but God, in His justice, knows their hearts.
However, without Scripture, their understanding of good and evil will remain limited.
Generations raised without the Word of God are more vulnerable to spiritual deception.
Why Knowing the Word Matters
Knowing the Bible doesn’t make you superior—it equips you.
It helps you recognize temptation, lies, and false comfort.
A Christian rooted in Scripture can identify the devil’s schemes far more easily than someone guided only by feelings or tradition.
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” — Psalm 119:105
The Word reveals truth, and truth sets people free (John 8:32).
Final Reflection
The question of those who never heard about Christ remains one of mystery and mercy.
But one truth stands clear: God is just, loving, and sovereign.
He knows the hearts of all people—those who have heard His name and those who have not.
That’s why, as Christians, we share the Gospel—not to condemn, but to bring light to those who walk in darkness.
A Personal Invitation
If you have never accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you can do so today.
Believe that He died for your sins, rose again, and lives to intercede for you.
He alone gives eternal life, peace, and freedom from fear.
“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” — Romans 10:13