Why the Church Must NOT Be United With the State
The New York Times posted on its web site a disturbing article and accompanying video about how Vladimir Putin has given his official endorsement to the Russian Orthodox Church. The natural consequence of this is that the church and Russian state have become closely tied to one another. This has resulted in subsequent persecution, prosecution and eviction of Protestant and Roman Catholic Christians and churches. The greatest concern of both the Russian Church and State is that their people be good, loyal Russians. Being faithful Christians is secondary.
This is a perfect illustration of the importance of separation of church and safe. When the two get together, the mission of the church is perverted to suit the goals of the state. I'm certain such unions are made in hell.