christianity in the us

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Christian Influence on the Progress of American Society Charissa Bogner, Korissa Murphy, and Britni Killingsworth Throughout history, standing up for one's rights has been a big part of America’s growth in regards to: women’s rights, segregation, taxation, religion...etc. However, with the expansion of America over the last few hundred years, Americans have gone from respecting others’ point-of-views to being offended when those point-of-views that differ are shared. “We often hear it said that ‘if your religious beliefs work for you, that’s great, but don’t impose them on others’”. Because of this dilemma, words such as; “judgmental”, “hypocritical”, and “intolerant” are all accusations that are placed onto Christians because of their moral standing on subjects that differ from public opinion. More often than not, Americans overlook the positive impact of the public influence of Christians. This concept of intolerance is something that is highly frowned upon in the America that we live in today. Intolerance is defined as, “Not willing to allow or accept something; not willing to allow some people to have equal freedom or other social rights; or unwilling to grant equal freedom of expression, especially in religious matters”. People within America today have confused the concept of being intolerant with keeping someone accountable to their actions, or fighting against a wrong for the betterment of a larger society. As you examine the history of America and see the countless people who have been advocates of the Christian faith, it is apparent that the lines have been blurred between standing up for what you believe in and being intolerant to the viewpoints and opinions of others. “Do not judge or you too will be judged. For ... ... middle of paper ... ... Reagan was one of the presidents Graham had a chance to impact, and he said, “It was through Billy Graham that I found myself praying even more than on a daily basis … and that in the position I held, that my prayers more and more were to give me the wisdom to make decisions that would serve God and be pleasing to Him.”. It is because of Billy Graham, his work, and his family that America has remained in such a positive place compared to what it could be without God in it. Billy Graham has been a powerful tool that God has used to keep the Christian faith in America. In spite of the fact that some may see him as intolerant or disapproving because he believes so strongly in God and Christian values, many Americans, both Christian and non-Christian, admire him for his accepting, humorous, honest and sincere attitude towards anyone, whether he agrees with them or not.

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