Changes

==Statistics==

==Statistics==

In 2015 and 2016, the Center for Studies on New Religions was reported that Christians were the most persecuted of any type of group in the world, with almost 600 million Christians being affected by persecution and 90,000 killed in 2016 alone.<ref>Chiaramonte, Perry (January 6, 2017). [http://www.foxnews.com/world/2017/01/06/christians-most-persecuted-group-in-world-for-second-year-study.html Christians the most persecuted group in world for second year: Study]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved January 7, 2017.</ref><ref>Williams, Thomas D. (April 16, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2017/04/16/easter-2017-christians-most-persecuted-group-in-the-world/ Easter 2017, Christians ‘Most Persecuted Group in the World’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 17, 2017.</ref> Between 2005 and 2015, over 900,000 Christians were martyred for their faith.<ref>[http://www.foxnews.com/world/2017/01/17/nearly-1-million-christians-reportedly-martyred-for-their-faith-in-last-decade.html Nearly 1 million Christians reportedly martyred for their faith in last decade]. ''Fox News'' (from ''The Christian Post''). January 17, 2017. Retrieved January 18, 2017.</ref> According to [[Open Doors]] USA in January 2018, at least 215 million Christians globally face severe persecution.<ref>Mora, Edwin (January 11, 2018). [http://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2018/01/11/study-200-million-christians-worldwide-facing-severe-persecution/ Study: Over 200 Million Christians Worldwide Facing Severe Persecution]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved January 11, 2018.</ref><ref>Chiaramonte, Perry (January 11, 2017). [http://www.foxnews.com/world/2018/01/11/christian-persecution-continues-to-rise-more-incidents-against-women-in-2017-new-report-says.html Christian persecution continues to rise, more incidents against women in 2017, new report says]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved January 11, 2018.</ref> According to Pew Research Center, restrictions on [[religious liberty]] increased in 2016 for the second year in a row, with Christianity being the most affected.<ref>Multiple references:

In 2015 and 2016, the Center for Studies on New Religions was reported that Christians were the most persecuted of any type of group in the world, with almost 600 million Christians being affected by persecution and 90,000 killed in 2016 alone.<ref>Chiaramonte, Perry (January 6, 2017). [http://www.foxnews.com/world/2017/01/06/christians-most-persecuted-group-in-world-for-second-year-study.html Christians the most persecuted group in world for second year: Study]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved January 7, 2017.</ref><ref>Williams, Thomas D. (April 16, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2017/04/16/easter-2017-christians-most-persecuted-group-in-the-world/ Easter 2017, Christians ‘Most Persecuted Group in the World’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 17, 2017.</ref> Between 2005 and 2015, over 900,000 Christians were martyred for their faith.<ref>[http://www.foxnews.com/world/2017/01/17/nearly-1-million-christians-reportedly-martyred-for-their-faith-in-last-decade.html Nearly 1 million Christians reportedly martyred for their faith in last decade]. ''Fox News'' (from ''The Christian Post''). January 17, 2017. Retrieved January 18, 2017.</ref> According to [[Open Doors]] USA in January 2018, at least 215 million Christians globally face severe persecution.<ref>Mora, Edwin (January 11, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2018/01/11/study-200-million-christians-worldwide-facing-severe-persecution/ Study: Over 200 Million Christians Worldwide Facing Severe Persecution]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved January 11, 2018.</ref><ref>Chiaramonte, Perry (January 11, 2017). [http://www.foxnews.com/world/2018/01/11/christian-persecution-continues-to-rise-more-incidents-against-women-in-2017-new-report-says.html Christian persecution continues to rise, more incidents against women in 2017, new report says]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved January 11, 2018.</ref> According to Pew Research Center, restrictions on [[religious liberty]] increased in 2016 for the second year in a row, with Christianity being the most affected.<ref>Multiple references:

*Kishi, Katayoun (June 21, 2018). [http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2018/06/21/key-findings-on-the-global-rise-in-religious-restrictions/ Key findings on the global rise in religious restrictions]. ''Pew Research Center''. Retrieved June 23, 2018.

*Kishi, Katayoun (June 21, 2018). [http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2018/06/21/key-findings-on-the-global-rise-in-religious-restrictions/ Key findings on the global rise in religious restrictions]. ''Pew Research Center''. Retrieved June 23, 2018.

*Williams, Thomas D. (June 23, 2018). [http://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2018/06/23/pew-religious-practice-faces-increasing-legal-restrictions-worldwide-christians-hardest-hit/ Pew: Religious Practice Faces Increasing Legal Restrictions Worldwide, Christians Hardest Hit]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 23, 2018.</ref> According to a 2017 report by Open Doors USA, the persecution of Christians is growing and is being seen in an increasing number of countries.<ref>Chiaramonte, Perry (February 2, 2017). [http://www.foxnews.com/world/2017/02/02/christian-persecution-seen-in-more-locations-across-globe-new-report-shows.html Christian persecution seen in more locations across the globe, new report shows]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved February 2, 2017.</ref> A 2017 report by Pew Research, concerning 2014 and 2015, yielded similar findings.<ref>Hadro, Matt (April 17, 2017). [http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/apr/17/study-finds-religious-persecution-spread-to-more-c/ Pew study: Religious persecution spread to more countries in 2015]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved April 18, 2017.</ref>

*Williams, Thomas D. (June 23, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2018/06/23/pew-religious-practice-faces-increasing-legal-restrictions-worldwide-christians-hardest-hit/ Pew: Religious Practice Faces Increasing Legal Restrictions Worldwide, Christians Hardest Hit]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 23, 2018.</ref> According to a 2017 report by Open Doors USA, the persecution of Christians is growing and is being seen in an increasing number of countries.<ref>Chiaramonte, Perry (February 2, 2017). [http://www.foxnews.com/world/2017/02/02/christian-persecution-seen-in-more-locations-across-globe-new-report-shows.html Christian persecution seen in more locations across the globe, new report shows]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved February 2, 2017.</ref> A 2017 report by Pew Research, concerning 2014 and 2015, yielded similar findings.<ref>Hadro, Matt (April 17, 2017). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/apr/17/study-finds-religious-persecution-spread-to-more-c/ Pew study: Religious persecution spread to more countries in 2015]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved April 18, 2017.</ref>

The countries with the most extreme persecution of Christians, as of 2017, tend to be Muslim nations, even though the most anti-Christian nation is [[North Korea]].<ref name="TannerApril2017">Tanner, Georeen (April 14, 2017). [http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2017/04/14/christian-persecution-how-many-are-being-killed-where-are-being-killed.html Christian persecution: How many are being killed, where they are being killed]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved April 14, 2017.</ref> As recorded between November 1, 2015, to October 31, 2016, [[Pakistan]] had the largest number of Christians killed and churches attacked.<ref name="TannerApril2017"/> The U.S. Commission for International Religious Freedom reported in May 2017 that religious freedom around the world was "worsening in both the depth and breadth of violations."<ref>Williams, Thomas D., PhD (May 16, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2017/05/16/report-international-religious-freedom-worsening-in-both-depth-and-breadth/ Report: International Religious Freedom Worsening in both ‘Depth and Breadth’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 16, 2017.</ref>

The countries with the most extreme persecution of Christians, as of 2017, tend to be Muslim nations, even though the most anti-Christian nation is [[North Korea]].<ref name="TannerApril2017">Tanner, Georeen (April 14, 2017). [http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2017/04/14/christian-persecution-how-many-are-being-killed-where-are-being-killed.html Christian persecution: How many are being killed, where they are being killed]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved April 14, 2017.</ref> As recorded between November 1, 2015, to October 31, 2016, [[Pakistan]] had the largest number of Christians killed and churches attacked.<ref name="TannerApril2017"/> The U.S. Commission for International Religious Freedom reported in May 2017 that religious freedom around the world was "worsening in both the depth and breadth of violations."<ref>Williams, Thomas D., PhD (May 16, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2017/05/16/report-international-religious-freedom-worsening-in-both-depth-and-breadth/ Report: International Religious Freedom Worsening in both ‘Depth and Breadth’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 16, 2017.</ref>

According to a 2015–2017 Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) study, Christians comprised 75% of all the victims of religious persecution around the globe.<ref>Williams, Thomas D. (October 16, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2017/10/16/report-75-of-victims-of-religious-persecution-are-christians/ Report: 75% of Victims of Religious Persecution Are Christians]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved October 16, 2017.</ref>

According to a 2015–2017 Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) study, Christians comprised 75% of all the victims of religious persecution around the globe.<ref>Williams, Thomas D. (October 16, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2017/10/16/report-75-of-victims-of-religious-persecution-are-christians/ Report: 75% of Victims of Religious Persecution Are Christians]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved October 16, 2017.</ref>

Despite strong persecution in the [[Middle East]], thousands of [[Muslims]] are turning to Christ.<ref>[http://www.foxnews.com/world/2017/01/11/thousands-muslims-reportedly-turning-to-christ-in-middle-east.html Thousands of Muslims reportedly turning to Christ in Middle East]. ''Fox News'' (from ''The Christian Post''). January 11, 2017. Retrieved January 14, 2017.</ref>

Despite strong persecution in the [[Middle East]], thousands of [[Muslims]] are turning to Christ.<ref>[http://www.foxnews.com/world/2017/01/11/thousands-muslims-reportedly-turning-to-christ-in-middle-east.html Thousands of Muslims reportedly turning to Christ in Middle East]. ''Fox News'' (from ''The Christian Post''). January 11, 2017. Retrieved January 14, 2017.</ref>

==Modern world==

==Modern world==

In the contemporary period, Christians continue to be attacked by governments in communist countries like [[China]] and [[North Korea]], and by hostile religious forces including Muslims in Africa, and by Hindus in [[India]]. Christians in the [[Middle East]] suffer from particularly strong persecution, and according to the Christian organization Open Doors in 2018, the number of professing Christians in the Middle East is declining and almost on the verge of disappearing.<ref>Kent, Simon (January 16, 2018). [http://www.breitbart.com/jerusalem/2018/01/16/report-middle-east-christians-on-the-eve-of-destruction/ Report: Middle East Christians on the Eve of Destruction]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved January 16, 2018.</ref>

In the contemporary period, Christians continue to be attacked by governments in communist countries like [[China]] and [[North Korea]], and by hostile religious forces including Muslims in Africa, and by Hindus in [[India]]. Christians in the [[Middle East]] suffer from particularly strong persecution, and according to the Christian organization Open Doors in 2018, the number of professing Christians in the Middle East is declining and almost on the verge of disappearing.<ref>Kent, Simon (January 16, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/jerusalem/2018/01/16/report-middle-east-christians-on-the-eve-of-destruction/ Report: Middle East Christians on the Eve of Destruction]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved January 16, 2018.</ref>

While very few Christians are killed for their faith in the West, persecution of Christians has grown in Europe and the Americas since the 20th Century, and it is seen in various ways, such as social, cultural, and legal persecution. In many Western countries, [[homeschooling]], which is popular with many Christians, is illegal.

While very few Christians are killed for their faith in the West, persecution of Christians has grown in Europe and the Americas since the 20th Century, and it is seen in various ways, such as social, cultural, and legal persecution. In many Western countries, [[homeschooling]], which is popular with many Christians, is illegal.

As with all forms of public assembly, the [[China|Chinese]] [[Communism|Communist]] Party keeps a tight rein on all religious activity,<ref>Williams, Thomas D. (August 19, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2018/08/19/china-communist-party-reasserts-absolute-control-over-religion/ China Communist Party Reasserts Absolute Control over Religion]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved August 19, 2018.</ref> including those of Christians. While thousands of state-sanctioned churches exist in China, the process for obtaining a permit for a new church is cumbersome, and to be approved, clergy must also take exams over communist ideology.<ref name=StatedeptChina>[http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/2008/108404.htm]</ref> There is a shortage of Chinese-born ministers who would pass state qualification, and Chinese citizens are forbidden by law to worship at churches with foreign-born pastors.<ref name=StatedeptChina /> For all of the above reasons, the vast majority of Christians in China opt to worship at underground "home churches." Leaders and members of these churches face fines, imprisonment, and confiscation of church property.<ref name=VM>[http://jmm.aaa.net.au/articles/1096.htm Persecution Of Christians Around The World]</ref> In some extreme cases, an underground church is labelled a cult, which the CCP uses to justify some of the worst of its persecution, including torture and forced labor.<ref>[http://www.online2.church123.com/attach.asp?clientURN=christiansolidarityworldwide2&attachFileName=52d82f5db78a2871ae131128a54455ac.attach&attachOriginalFileName=CSW_Briefing_China_Liu_Statement.pdf Torture testimony of Liu Xianzhi]</ref>

As with all forms of public assembly, the [[China|Chinese]] [[Communism|Communist]] Party keeps a tight rein on all religious activity,<ref>Williams, Thomas D. (August 19, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2018/08/19/china-communist-party-reasserts-absolute-control-over-religion/ China Communist Party Reasserts Absolute Control over Religion]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved August 19, 2018.</ref> including those of Christians. While thousands of state-sanctioned churches exist in China, the process for obtaining a permit for a new church is cumbersome, and to be approved, clergy must also take exams over communist ideology.<ref name=StatedeptChina>[http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/2008/108404.htm]</ref> There is a shortage of Chinese-born ministers who would pass state qualification, and Chinese citizens are forbidden by law to worship at churches with foreign-born pastors.<ref name=StatedeptChina /> For all of the above reasons, the vast majority of Christians in China opt to worship at underground "home churches." Leaders and members of these churches face fines, imprisonment, and confiscation of church property.<ref name=VM>[http://jmm.aaa.net.au/articles/1096.htm Persecution Of Christians Around The World]</ref> In some extreme cases, an underground church is labelled a cult, which the CCP uses to justify some of the worst of its persecution, including torture and forced labor.<ref>[http://www.online2.church123.com/attach.asp?clientURN=christiansolidarityworldwide2&attachFileName=52d82f5db78a2871ae131128a54455ac.attach&attachOriginalFileName=CSW_Briefing_China_Liu_Statement.pdf Torture testimony of Liu Xianzhi]</ref>

The Chinese government forces all practicing religions in the country, including Christianity, to conform to the nation's communist ideology.<ref>Martel, Frances (September 7, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2017/09/07/government-christian-leader-theology-shall-reflect-chinese-culture/ Government Christian Leader: ‘Theology Shall Reflect Chinese Culture’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 12, 2017.</ref>

The Chinese government forces all practicing religions in the country, including Christianity, to conform to the nation's communist ideology.<ref>Martel, Frances (September 7, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2017/09/07/government-christian-leader-theology-shall-reflect-chinese-culture/ Government Christian Leader: ‘Theology Shall Reflect Chinese Culture’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 12, 2017.</ref>

Chinese president [[Xi Jinping]] is very opposed to Christianity.<ref>Williams, Thomas D. (April 22, 2018). [http://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2018/04/22/china-aid-president-xi-jinping-views-christian-churches-severe-national-security-threat/ China Aid: President Xi Jinping Views Christian Churches as ‘Severe National Security Threat’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 22, 2018.</ref> In 2017, after Islamic extremists killed two Chinese Christian missionaries, rather than protect Christians, the Chinese government enacted further persecutions against Christianity.<ref>[http://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/cwn/2017/september/china-ramps-up-christian-persecution-after-two-missionaries-are-murdered China Ramps Up Christian Persecution After Two Missionaries Are Murdered]. ''CBN News''. September 5, 2017. Retrieved September 12, 2017.</ref> That same year, the Chinese government made it illegal for Christian parents to take their children to church.<ref>Williams, Thomas D. (September 12, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2017/09/12/chinese-govt-bans-christian-children-from-attending-church-vows-punishment-to-offenders/ Chinese Gov’t Bans Christian Children from Attending Church, Vows Punishment to Offenders]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 12, 2017.</ref><ref>Hodges, Mark (September 11, 2017). [https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/chinese-govt-bans-kids-from-attending-church-service Chinese gov’t bans kids from attending church services]. ''LifeSiteNews''. Retrieved September 12, 2017.</ref><ref>Haverluck, Michael F. (September 11, 2017). [https://www.onenewsnow.com/persecution/2017/09/11/china-children-not-allowed-at-church China: Children not allowed at church]. ''OneNewsNow''. Retrieved September 12, 2017.</ref> Also in 2017, it was reported that in China's Jiangxi province, the government had a plan of denying important poverty relief packages to Christians unless they replaced images of Jesus they had with images of President [[Xi Jinping]].<ref>Martel, Frances (November 14, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2017/11/14/china-urges-christian-peasants-replace-jesus-images-xi-jinping/ China Urges Rural Christians to Replace Jesus Images with Xi Jinping]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 14, 2017.</ref> In April 2018, the Chinese government banned online sales of Bibles, among other actions against Christians.<ref>Multiple references:

Chinese president [[Xi Jinping]] is very opposed to Christianity.<ref>Williams, Thomas D. (April 22, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2018/04/22/china-aid-president-xi-jinping-views-christian-churches-severe-national-security-threat/ China Aid: President Xi Jinping Views Christian Churches as ‘Severe National Security Threat’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 22, 2018.</ref> In 2017, after Islamic extremists killed two Chinese Christian missionaries, rather than protect Christians, the Chinese government enacted further persecutions against Christianity.<ref>[http://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/cwn/2017/september/china-ramps-up-christian-persecution-after-two-missionaries-are-murdered China Ramps Up Christian Persecution After Two Missionaries Are Murdered]. ''CBN News''. September 5, 2017. Retrieved September 12, 2017.</ref> That same year, the Chinese government made it illegal for Christian parents to take their children to church.<ref>Williams, Thomas D. (September 12, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2017/09/12/chinese-govt-bans-christian-children-from-attending-church-vows-punishment-to-offenders/ Chinese Gov’t Bans Christian Children from Attending Church, Vows Punishment to Offenders]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 12, 2017.</ref><ref>Hodges, Mark (September 11, 2017). [https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/chinese-govt-bans-kids-from-attending-church-service Chinese gov’t bans kids from attending church services]. ''LifeSiteNews''. Retrieved September 12, 2017.</ref><ref>Haverluck, Michael F. (September 11, 2017). [https://www.onenewsnow.com/persecution/2017/09/11/china-children-not-allowed-at-church China: Children not allowed at church]. ''OneNewsNow''. Retrieved September 12, 2017.</ref> Also in 2017, it was reported that in China's Jiangxi province, the government had a plan of denying important poverty relief packages to Christians unless they replaced images of Jesus they had with images of President [[Xi Jinping]].<ref>Martel, Frances (November 14, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2017/11/14/china-urges-christian-peasants-replace-jesus-images-xi-jinping/ China Urges Rural Christians to Replace Jesus Images with Xi Jinping]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 14, 2017.</ref> In April 2018, the Chinese government banned online sales of Bibles, among other actions against Christians.<ref>Multiple references:

*Mass, Warren (April 5, 2018). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/world-news/asia/item/28677-china-bans-bible-sales-at-online-bookstores-and-tightens-control-over-religion China Bans Bible Sales at Online Bookstores and Tightens Control Over Religion]. ''The New American''. Retrieved April 5, 2018.

*Mass, Warren (April 5, 2018). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/world-news/asia/item/28677-china-bans-bible-sales-at-online-bookstores-and-tightens-control-over-religion China Bans Bible Sales at Online Bookstores and Tightens Control Over Religion]. ''The New American''. Retrieved April 5, 2018.

*Williams, Thomas D. (April 4, 2018). [http://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2018/04/04/china-pulls-bibles-online-bookstores-crackdown-christianity/ China Pulls Bibles from Online Bookstores in Crackdown on Christianity]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 5, 2018.

*Williams, Thomas D. (April 4, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2018/04/04/china-pulls-bibles-online-bookstores-crackdown-christianity/ China Pulls Bibles from Online Bookstores in Crackdown on Christianity]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 5, 2018.

*Wise, Talia; Lane, Gary (April 5, 2018). [https://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/2018/april/bible-ban-gods-word-disappears-from-online-stores-in-china Bible Ban: God's Word Disappears from Online Stores in China]. ''CBN News''. Retrieved April 5, 2018.

*Wise, Talia; Lane, Gary (April 5, 2018). [https://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/2018/april/bible-ban-gods-word-disappears-from-online-stores-in-china Bible Ban: God's Word Disappears from Online Stores in China]. ''CBN News''. Retrieved April 5, 2018.

*Johnson, Ian (April 5, 2018). [https://www.nytimes.com/2018/04/05/world/asia/china-bans-bible-sales.html China Bans Online Bible Sales as It Tightens Religious Controls]. ''The New York Times''. Retrieved April 5, 2018.

*Johnson, Ian (April 5, 2018). [https://www.nytimes.com/2018/04/05/world/asia/china-bans-bible-sales.html China Bans Online Bible Sales as It Tightens Religious Controls]. ''The New York Times''. Retrieved April 5, 2018.

====Indonesia====

====Indonesia====

Fundamentalist Islam and [[Sharia Law]] have been reported to be gaining influence in [[Indonesia]]. He served as Deputy Governor of Jakarta prior to 2014, when Governor [[Joko Widodo]] was elected President of Indonesia. Although having an approval rating of 76%, many Indonesians voted against [[Jakarta]]n Governor [[Basuki Tjahaja Purnama]] in the April 2017 gubernatorial election due to religious factors.<ref name="Cochrane">Cochrane, Joe (April 19, 2017). [https://www.nytimes.com/2017/04/19/world/asia/jakarta-election-ahok-anies-baswedan-indonesia.html Jakarta Governor Concedes Defeat in Religiously Tinged Election]. ''The News York Times''. Retrieved May 10, 2017.</ref><ref name="Hayward"/> Purnama, a [[Christianity|Christian]], was found guilty of blaspheming Islam in May 2017 and was sentenced to two years in prison.<ref name="Hayward">Hayward, John (May 9, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2017/05/09/jakarta-governor-found-guilty-of-blasphemy-against-islam-jailed-for-two-years/ Jakarta Governor Found Guilty of Blasphemy Against Islam, Jailed for Two Years]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 10, 2017.</ref>

Fundamentalist Islam and [[Sharia Law]] have been reported to be gaining influence in [[Indonesia]]. He served as Deputy Governor of Jakarta prior to 2014, when Governor [[Joko Widodo]] was elected President of Indonesia. Although having an approval rating of 76%, many Indonesians voted against [[Jakarta]]n Governor [[Basuki Tjahaja Purnama]] in the April 2017 gubernatorial election due to religious factors.<ref name="Cochrane">Cochrane, Joe (April 19, 2017). [https://www.nytimes.com/2017/04/19/world/asia/jakarta-election-ahok-anies-baswedan-indonesia.html Jakarta Governor Concedes Defeat in Religiously Tinged Election]. ''The News York Times''. Retrieved May 10, 2017.</ref><ref name="Hayward"/> Purnama, a [[Christianity|Christian]], was found guilty of blaspheming Islam in May 2017 and was sentenced to two years in prison.<ref name="Hayward">Hayward, John (May 9, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2017/05/09/jakarta-governor-found-guilty-of-blasphemy-against-islam-jailed-for-two-years/ Jakarta Governor Found Guilty of Blasphemy Against Islam, Jailed for Two Years]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 10, 2017.</ref>

====Iran====

====Iran====

In Pakistan, Christian mother Asia Bibi remains on death row for a sixth year on a charge of blasphemy, which she denies. Politicians who have tried to defend her or repeal the law have been assassinated. To date, the Supreme Court has seems unable to find judges willing to consider her appeal. A hearing in October was postponed after 150 Muslim clerics issued a fatwa against the court.<ref>[http://www.releaseinternational.org/violent-persecution-set-to-rise-in-2017/ Violent persecution set to rise in 2017]</ref>

In Pakistan, Christian mother Asia Bibi remains on death row for a sixth year on a charge of blasphemy, which she denies. Politicians who have tried to defend her or repeal the law have been assassinated. To date, the Supreme Court has seems unable to find judges willing to consider her appeal. A hearing in October was postponed after 150 Muslim clerics issued a fatwa against the court.<ref>[http://www.releaseinternational.org/violent-persecution-set-to-rise-in-2017/ Violent persecution set to rise in 2017]</ref>

In 2017, a Pakistani teenager from a Christian family was beaten to death by his schoolmates from allegedly drinking out of the same water cooler as them, while a nearby teacher did nothing.<ref>Montgomery, Jack (September 12, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/london/2017/09/12/pakistani-christian-beaten-death-muslim-classmates-teacher-read-newspaper/ Pakistani Christian Beaten to Death by Muslim Classmates ‘Whilst Teacher Read Newspaper’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 12, 2017.</ref>

In 2017, a Pakistani teenager from a Christian family was beaten to death by his schoolmates from allegedly drinking out of the same water cooler as them, while a nearby teacher did nothing.<ref>Montgomery, Jack (September 12, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/london/2017/09/12/pakistani-christian-beaten-death-muslim-classmates-teacher-read-newspaper/ Pakistani Christian Beaten to Death by Muslim Classmates ‘Whilst Teacher Read Newspaper’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 12, 2017.</ref>

====Syria====

====Syria====

====France====

====France====

In 2016, the [[France|French]] Senate passed a bill making it illegal to post [[pro-life]] information on the internet.<ref name="ProLifeBan">McMorris, Bill (December 7, 2016). [http://freebeacon.com/issues/french-senate-passes-pro-life-website-ban/ French Senate Passes Pro-Life Website Ban]. ''The Washington Free Beacon''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref> In February 2017, both houses of the French parliament passed the bill, with the National Assembly's more severe and broad wording ultimately being adopted.<ref>Multiple references:

In 2016, the [[France|French]] Senate passed a bill making it illegal to post [[pro-life]] information on the internet.<ref name="ProLifeBan">McMorris, Bill (December 7, 2016). [https://freebeacon.com/issues/french-senate-passes-pro-life-website-ban/ French Senate Passes Pro-Life Website Ban]. ''The Washington Free Beacon''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref> In February 2017, both houses of the French parliament passed the bill, with the National Assembly's more severe and broad wording ultimately being adopted.<ref>Multiple references:

*Smits, Jeanne (February 17, 2017). [https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/france-approves-restrictive-law-targeting-pro-life-websites France passes law imposing up to two years prison for running pro-life websites]. ''LifeSiteNews''. Retrieved February 11, 2018.

*Smits, Jeanne (February 17, 2017). [https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/france-approves-restrictive-law-targeting-pro-life-websites France passes law imposing up to two years prison for running pro-life websites]. ''LifeSiteNews''. Retrieved February 11, 2018.

*Byas, Steve (February 21, 2017). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/world-news/europe/item/25430-france-criminalizes-pro-life-speech France Criminalizes Pro-life Speech]. ''The New American''. Retrieved February 11, 2018.

*Byas, Steve (February 21, 2017). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/world-news/europe/item/25430-france-criminalizes-pro-life-speech France Criminalizes Pro-life Speech]. ''The New American''. Retrieved February 11, 2018.

*Camp, Frank (February 19, 2017). [https://www.dailywire.com/news/13626/france-passes-speech-law-could-cripple-pro-life-frank-camp France Passes Speech Law That Could Cripple the Pro-Life Movement]. ''The Daily Wire''. Retrieved February 11, 2018.</ref> As of March 2017, the bill was being reviewed by France's Constitutional Council.<ref>Hurd, Dale (March 11, 2017). [https://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/world/2017/march/new-law-could-strangle-french-pro-life-movement Strangling the Pro-Life Movement: What in the World Is Going on in France?]. ''CBN News''. Retrieved February 11, 2018.</ref> Regardless, this law would effectively criminalize the freedom of speech (at least on the internet) of those who support the true human right to life for unborn human beings,<ref name="ProLifeBan"/> and it illustrates the opposition to equal rights in the country.<ref>Morrison, Robert (April 4, 2017). [http://thefederalist.com/2017/04/04/france-reneges-equal-rights-banning-pro-life-websites/ France Reneges On Equal Rights For All By Banning Pro-Life Websites]. ''The Federalist''. Retrieved February 11, 2018.</ref> France is already spiritually dead.

*Camp, Frank (February 19, 2017). [https://www.dailywire.com/news/13626/france-passes-speech-law-could-cripple-pro-life-frank-camp France Passes Speech Law That Could Cripple the Pro-Life Movement]. ''The Daily Wire''. Retrieved February 11, 2018.</ref> As of March 2017, the bill was being reviewed by France's Constitutional Council.<ref>Hurd, Dale (March 11, 2017). [https://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/world/2017/march/new-law-could-strangle-french-pro-life-movement Strangling the Pro-Life Movement: What in the World Is Going on in France?]. ''CBN News''. Retrieved February 11, 2018.</ref> Regardless, this law would effectively criminalize the freedom of speech (at least on the internet) of those who support the true human right to life for unborn human beings,<ref name="ProLifeBan"/> and it illustrates the opposition to equal rights in the country.<ref>Morrison, Robert (April 4, 2017). [https://thefederalist.com/2017/04/04/france-reneges-equal-rights-banning-pro-life-websites/ France Reneges On Equal Rights For All By Banning Pro-Life Websites]. ''The Federalist''. Retrieved February 11, 2018.</ref> France is already spiritually dead.

While this is a pro-life restriction, rather than an official restriction on Christianity, biblical Christians strongly hold pro-life views based on the Bible, and their freedom to advocate against legalized murder, including on biblical grounds, will be restricted. Also, the law could have a slippery slope and affect churches and Christian denominations.<ref name="ProLifeBan"/>

While this is a pro-life restriction, rather than an official restriction on Christianity, biblical Christians strongly hold pro-life views based on the Bible, and their freedom to advocate against legalized murder, including on biblical grounds, will be restricted. Also, the law could have a slippery slope and affect churches and Christian denominations.<ref name="ProLifeBan"/>

*Ham, Ken (September 22, 2013). [https://answersingenesis.org/blogs/ken-ham/2013/09/22/germany-against-homeschooling/ Germany Against Homeschooling]. ''Answers in Genesis''. Retrieved December 24, 2017.

*Ham, Ken (September 22, 2013). [https://answersingenesis.org/blogs/ken-ham/2013/09/22/germany-against-homeschooling/ Germany Against Homeschooling]. ''Answers in Genesis''. Retrieved December 24, 2017.

*Crossland, Kiley (April 17, 2017). [http://www.bpnews.net/48684/german-family-continues-fight-to-homeschool German family continues fight to homeschool]. ''Baptist Press''. Retrieved December 24, 2017.

*Crossland, Kiley (April 17, 2017). [http://www.bpnews.net/48684/german-family-continues-fight-to-homeschool German family continues fight to homeschool]. ''Baptist Press''. Retrieved December 24, 2017.

*Mitchell, Elizabeth (September 7, 2013). [https://answersingenesis.org/homeschool/government-seizes-homeschooling-childrenwhose-kids-are-they/ Government Seizes Homeschooling Children—Whose Kids Are They?] ''Answers in Genesis''. Retrieved December 24, 2017.</ref> In 2008, a German homeschooling family traveled to the U.S. and applied for asylum,<ref name="HomeschoolAsylum">Huston, Warner Todd (February 1, 2010). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2010/02/01/homeschooling-german-family-awarded-political-asylum-in-us-where-is-us-media/ Homeschooling German Family Awarded Political Asylum in U.S., Where is U.S. Media?] ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved December 24, 2017.</ref> something which they were guaranteed in 2014.<ref name="DHShomeschool">Berry, Susan (March 4, 2014). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2014/03/04/department-of-homeland-security-will-not-deport-romeike-german-homeschoolers/ Homeland Security Will Not Deport German Christian Homeschoolers the Romeikes]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved December 24, 2017.</ref>

*Mitchell, Elizabeth (September 7, 2013). [https://answersingenesis.org/homeschool/government-seizes-homeschooling-childrenwhose-kids-are-they/ Government Seizes Homeschooling Children—Whose Kids Are They?] ''Answers in Genesis''. Retrieved December 24, 2017.</ref> In 2008, a German homeschooling family traveled to the U.S. and applied for asylum,<ref name="HomeschoolAsylum">Huston, Warner Todd (February 1, 2010). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2010/02/01/homeschooling-german-family-awarded-political-asylum-in-us-where-is-us-media/ Homeschooling German Family Awarded Political Asylum in U.S., Where is U.S. Media?] ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved December 24, 2017.</ref> something which they were guaranteed in 2014.<ref name="DHShomeschool">Berry, Susan (March 4, 2014). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2014/03/04/department-of-homeland-security-will-not-deport-romeike-german-homeschoolers/ Homeland Security Will Not Deport German Christian Homeschoolers the Romeikes]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved December 24, 2017.</ref>

====Sweden====

====Sweden====

In 2017, a [[Sweden|Swedish]] local government unit forced a Christian preschool to ban prayer to God under the country's Education Act, but the preschoolers were subsequently instructed to thank the sun and the rain before meals.<ref>Chretien, Claire (June 28, 2017). [https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/christian-preschool-switches-to-thanking-the-sun-and-rain-before-meals-afte Gov’t bans prayer to God; Christian preschool forced to thank ‘sun and rain’ for meals instead]. ''LifeSite News''. Retrieved August 6, 2017.</ref><ref>Hale, Virginia (June 26, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/london/2017/06/26/christian-preschool-banned-saying-amen/ Christian Preschoolers Banned from Saying ‘Amen’, Talking About the Bible]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved August 6, 2017.</ref><ref>[http://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/world/2017/june/preschoolers-in-sweden-banned-from-saying-amen-mentioning-the-bible Preschoolers in Sweden Banned from Saying 'Amen,' Mentioning the Bible]. ''CBN News''. June 29, 2017. Retrieved August 6, 2017.</ref>

In 2017, a [[Sweden|Swedish]] local government unit forced a Christian preschool to ban prayer to God under the country's Education Act, but the preschoolers were subsequently instructed to thank the sun and the rain before meals.<ref>Chretien, Claire (June 28, 2017). [https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/christian-preschool-switches-to-thanking-the-sun-and-rain-before-meals-afte Gov’t bans prayer to God; Christian preschool forced to thank ‘sun and rain’ for meals instead]. ''LifeSite News''. Retrieved August 6, 2017.</ref><ref>Hale, Virginia (June 26, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/london/2017/06/26/christian-preschool-banned-saying-amen/ Christian Preschoolers Banned from Saying ‘Amen’, Talking About the Bible]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved August 6, 2017.</ref><ref>[http://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/world/2017/june/preschoolers-in-sweden-banned-from-saying-amen-mentioning-the-bible Preschoolers in Sweden Banned from Saying 'Amen,' Mentioning the Bible]. ''CBN News''. June 29, 2017. Retrieved August 6, 2017.</ref>

====United Kingdom====

====United Kingdom====

In October 2017, Oxford University banned a Christian organization, the Christian Union of Oxford’s Balliol College, from appearing at a fair because it would "alienate" students because of Christianity being an "excuse for homophobia and neo-colonialism."<ref>[http://www.foxnews.com/world/2017/10/11/christian-group-at-oxford-university-banned-from-fair-out-fear-it-would-alienate-students.html Christian group at Oxford University banned from fair out of fear it would 'alienate' students]. ''Fox News''. October 11, 2017. Retrieved October 23, 2017.</ref>

In October 2017, Oxford University banned a Christian organization, the Christian Union of Oxford’s Balliol College, from appearing at a fair because it would "alienate" students because of Christianity being an "excuse for homophobia and neo-colonialism."<ref>[http://www.foxnews.com/world/2017/10/11/christian-group-at-oxford-university-banned-from-fair-out-fear-it-would-alienate-students.html Christian group at Oxford University banned from fair out of fear it would 'alienate' students]. ''Fox News''. October 11, 2017. Retrieved October 23, 2017.</ref>

In November 2017, [[Tim Farron]], a Christian and the former leader of the Liberal Democratic Party who resigned due to the incompatibility of his faith and his position, admitted that social persecution of Christianity is a real thing and that the culture sees it as dangerous.<ref>Williams, Thomas D. (November 29, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/london/2017/11/29/lib-democrat-tim-farron-warns-that-christians-now-deemed-as-dangerous-and-unsuitable-for-politics/ Liberal Democrat Tim Farron Warns That Christians Now Deemed as ‘Dangerous’ and Unsuitable for Politics]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 29, 2017.</ref>

In November 2017, [[Tim Farron]], a Christian and the former leader of the Liberal Democratic Party who resigned due to the incompatibility of his faith and his position, admitted that social persecution of Christianity is a real thing and that the culture sees it as dangerous.<ref>Williams, Thomas D. (November 29, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/london/2017/11/29/lib-democrat-tim-farron-warns-that-christians-now-deemed-as-dangerous-and-unsuitable-for-politics/ Liberal Democrat Tim Farron Warns That Christians Now Deemed as ‘Dangerous’ and Unsuitable for Politics]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 29, 2017.</ref>

In December 2017, the London Assembly called on its mayor "to clarify the powers available to [police] to arrest and prosecute" [[pro-life]] activists, claiming with no evidence that the "anti-choice campaigners" engage in “obstruction, intimidation and harassment."<ref>Deacon, Liam (December 23, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/london/2017/12/23/orwellian-london-assembly-votes-arrest-prosecute-pro-life-campaigners/ ‘Orwellian’: London Assembly Votes to ‘Arrest and Prosecute’ Pro-Life Christians]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved December 23, 2017.</ref>

In December 2017, the London Assembly called on its mayor "to clarify the powers available to [police] to arrest and prosecute" [[pro-life]] activists, claiming with no evidence that the "anti-choice campaigners" engage in “obstruction, intimidation and harassment."<ref>Deacon, Liam (December 23, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/london/2017/12/23/orwellian-london-assembly-votes-arrest-prosecute-pro-life-campaigners/ ‘Orwellian’: London Assembly Votes to ‘Arrest and Prosecute’ Pro-Life Christians]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved December 23, 2017.</ref>

===North America===

===North America===

In June 2018, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled against an explicitly Christian law school, saying that is was "proportionate and reasonable" for some Canadian law societies to deny accreditation to the school's graduates because the school opposed homosexuality due to its Christian values.<ref>Multiple references:

In June 2018, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled against an explicitly Christian law school, saying that is was "proportionate and reasonable" for some Canadian law societies to deny accreditation to the school's graduates because the school opposed homosexuality due to its Christian values.<ref>Multiple references:

Laurence, Lianne (June 15, 2018). [https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/canadas-top-court-rules-religious-freedom Canada’s top court rules against Christian law school: LGBT ‘rights’ trump religious freedom]. ''LifeSiteNews''. Retrieved June 17, 2018.

Laurence, Lianne (June 15, 2018). [https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/canadas-top-court-rules-religious-freedom Canada’s top court rules against Christian law school: LGBT ‘rights’ trump religious freedom]. ''LifeSiteNews''. Retrieved June 17, 2018.

*Williams, Thomas D. (June 19, 2018). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2018/06/19/canada-rules-no-exemption-regarding-sexual-morality-for-christian-law-school/ Canada Court: No Exemption on Sexual Morality for Christian Law School]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 19, 2018.

*Williams, Thomas D. (June 19, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2018/06/19/canada-rules-no-exemption-regarding-sexual-morality-for-christian-law-school/ Canada Court: No Exemption on Sexual Morality for Christian Law School]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 19, 2018.

*Clabough, Raven (June 20, 2018). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/world-news/north-america/item/29320-christian-canadian-law-school-denied-accreditation-because-of-its-belief-in-traditional-marriage Christian Canadian Law School Denied Accreditation Because of Its Belief in Traditional Marriage]. ''The New American''. Retrieved June 20, 2018.

*Clabough, Raven (June 20, 2018). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/world-news/north-america/item/29320-christian-canadian-law-school-denied-accreditation-because-of-its-belief-in-traditional-marriage Christian Canadian Law School Denied Accreditation Because of Its Belief in Traditional Marriage]. ''The New American''. Retrieved June 20, 2018.

See also:

See also:

Don Feder, founder of a group called Jews Against Anti-Christian Defamation, used his condemnation of the 2005 film "V for Vendetta" to say, "It's very much in keeping with what has become Hollywood's standard anti-Christian message – that Christians are hypocritical hate-mongers, with tendencies toward violence, who are waiting to seize the reins of government and persecute unbelievers."<ref>see [http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/movies/2009/05/15/2009-05-15_is_hollywood_antichristian_angels__demons_sparks_debate_anew.html#ixzz0FeJYczRf&B David Hinckley, "Is Hollywood anti-Christian?" ''New York Daily News'' May 15th 2009]</ref> David Limbaugh says, "This anti-Christian bias manifests itself in unflattering portrayals of Christians in Hollywood films and entertainment television."<ref>[http://archive.newsmax.com/archives/articles/2003/10/2/102405.shtml The Media and Hollywood War Against Christianity] NewsMax, October 2, 2003</ref>

Don Feder, founder of a group called Jews Against Anti-Christian Defamation, used his condemnation of the 2005 film "V for Vendetta" to say, "It's very much in keeping with what has become Hollywood's standard anti-Christian message – that Christians are hypocritical hate-mongers, with tendencies toward violence, who are waiting to seize the reins of government and persecute unbelievers."<ref>see [http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/movies/2009/05/15/2009-05-15_is_hollywood_antichristian_angels__demons_sparks_debate_anew.html#ixzz0FeJYczRf&B David Hinckley, "Is Hollywood anti-Christian?" ''New York Daily News'' May 15th 2009]</ref> David Limbaugh says, "This anti-Christian bias manifests itself in unflattering portrayals of Christians in Hollywood films and entertainment television."<ref>[http://archive.newsmax.com/archives/articles/2003/10/2/102405.shtml The Media and Hollywood War Against Christianity] NewsMax, October 2, 2003</ref>

In a government report released in 2016, Martin R. Castro, the chairman of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, claimed that "The phrases “religious liberty” and “religious freedom” will stand for nothing except hypocrisy so long as they remain code words for discrimination, intolerance, racism, sexism, homophobia, Islamophobia, Christian supremacy or any form of intolerance."<ref>Showalter, Brandon (September 9, 2016). [http://www.christianpost.com/news/religious-freedom-code-word-bigotry-christian-supremacy-us-civil-rights-commissioner-martin-castro-169370/ Religious Freedom Is 'Code Word' for Bigotry, Christian Supremacy, US Civil Rights Commissioner Says]. ''The Christian Post''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref>Kellner, Mark A. (September 8, 2016). [http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2016/sep/8/religious-freedom-religious-liberty-just-code-word/ ‘Religious freedom,’ ‘liberty’ just ‘code words’ for intolerance, U.S. Civil Rights chairman says]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref>[http://religionnews.com/2016/09/08/chairman-of-u-s-commission-on-civil-rights-calls-the-phrases-religious-liberty-and-religious-freedom-code-words-for-discrimination-intolerance-racism-s/ Chairman of U.S. Commission on Civil Rights calls the phrases ‘religious liberty’ and ‘religious freedom’ code words for discrimination, intolerance, racism, sexism, homophobia, Islamophobia, and Christian supremacy]. ''Religion News Service''. September 8, 2016. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref>Carter, Joe (September 13, 2016). [https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/u.s.-civil-rights-commission-religious-freedom-is-code-word-for-racism-homophobia-and-christian-supremacy U.S. Civil Rights Commission: ‘Religious Freedom’ Is Code Word for Racism, Homophobia, and ‘Christian Supremacy’]. ''The Gospel Coalition''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref>

In a government report released in 2016, Martin R. Castro, the chairman of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, claimed that "The phrases “religious liberty” and “religious freedom” will stand for nothing except hypocrisy so long as they remain code words for discrimination, intolerance, racism, sexism, homophobia, Islamophobia, Christian supremacy or any form of intolerance."<ref>Showalter, Brandon (September 9, 2016). [http://www.christianpost.com/news/religious-freedom-code-word-bigotry-christian-supremacy-us-civil-rights-commissioner-martin-castro-169370/ Religious Freedom Is 'Code Word' for Bigotry, Christian Supremacy, US Civil Rights Commissioner Says]. ''The Christian Post''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref>Kellner, Mark A. (September 8, 2016). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2016/sep/8/religious-freedom-religious-liberty-just-code-word/ ‘Religious freedom,’ ‘liberty’ just ‘code words’ for intolerance, U.S. Civil Rights chairman says]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref>[http://religionnews.com/2016/09/08/chairman-of-u-s-commission-on-civil-rights-calls-the-phrases-religious-liberty-and-religious-freedom-code-words-for-discrimination-intolerance-racism-s/ Chairman of U.S. Commission on Civil Rights calls the phrases ‘religious liberty’ and ‘religious freedom’ code words for discrimination, intolerance, racism, sexism, homophobia, Islamophobia, and Christian supremacy]. ''Religion News Service''. September 8, 2016. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref>Carter, Joe (September 13, 2016). [https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/u.s.-civil-rights-commission-religious-freedom-is-code-word-for-racism-homophobia-and-christian-supremacy U.S. Civil Rights Commission: ‘Religious Freedom’ Is Code Word for Racism, Homophobia, and ‘Christian Supremacy’]. ''The Gospel Coalition''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref>

In 2014, [[Houston]] mayor [[Annice Parker|Annise Parker]], a leftist and the first openly-homosexual mayor of the city, illegally issued subpoenas on pastors, ordering them to turn over sermons concerning homosexuality.<ref>Starnes, Todd (October 14, 2014). [http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2014/10/14/city-houston-demands-pastors-turn-over-sermons.html City of Houston demands pastors turn over sermons]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref>Starnes, Todd (October 29, 2014). [http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2014/10/29/houston-mayor-drops-bid-to-subpoena-pastors-sermons.html Houston mayor drops bid to subpoena pastors' sermons]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref>Hallowell, Billy (August 3, 2015). [http://www.theblaze.com/news/2015/08/03/houston-pastors-hit-back-against-mayor-with-lawsuit-alleging-their-religious-freedoms-were-trampled/ Houston Gov’t Subpoenaed Pastors’ Sermons. Now, They’re Fighting Back.] ''The Blaze''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref>

In 2014, [[Houston]] mayor [[Annice Parker|Annise Parker]], a leftist and the first openly-homosexual mayor of the city, illegally issued subpoenas on pastors, ordering them to turn over sermons concerning homosexuality.<ref>Starnes, Todd (October 14, 2014). [http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2014/10/14/city-houston-demands-pastors-turn-over-sermons.html City of Houston demands pastors turn over sermons]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref>Starnes, Todd (October 29, 2014). [http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2014/10/29/houston-mayor-drops-bid-to-subpoena-pastors-sermons.html Houston mayor drops bid to subpoena pastors' sermons]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref>Hallowell, Billy (August 3, 2015). [http://www.theblaze.com/news/2015/08/03/houston-pastors-hit-back-against-mayor-with-lawsuit-alleging-their-religious-freedoms-were-trampled/ Houston Gov’t Subpoenaed Pastors’ Sermons. Now, They’re Fighting Back.] ''The Blaze''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref>

*Taylor, Sarah (October 7, 2017). [http://www.theblaze.com/news/2017/10/07/gay-coffee-shop-owner-kicks-christians-out-of-cafe-goes-on-vulgar-rant-it-was-all-caught-on-video/ Gay coffee shop owner kicks Christians out of cafe, goes on vulgar rant — it was all caught on video]. ''The Blaze''. Retrieved October 23, 2017.

*Taylor, Sarah (October 7, 2017). [http://www.theblaze.com/news/2017/10/07/gay-coffee-shop-owner-kicks-christians-out-of-cafe-goes-on-vulgar-rant-it-was-all-caught-on-video/ Gay coffee shop owner kicks Christians out of cafe, goes on vulgar rant — it was all caught on video]. ''The Blaze''. Retrieved October 23, 2017.

*Pandolfo, Chris (October 9, 2017). [https://www.conservativereview.com/articles/video-gay-coffee-shop-owner-kicks-christians-out-of-his-shop VIDEO: Gay coffee shop owner kicks Christians out of his shop]. ''Conservative Review''. Retrieved October 23, 2017.

*Pandolfo, Chris (October 9, 2017). [https://www.conservativereview.com/articles/video-gay-coffee-shop-owner-kicks-christians-out-of-his-shop VIDEO: Gay coffee shop owner kicks Christians out of his shop]. ''Conservative Review''. Retrieved October 23, 2017.

*Caralle, Katelyn (October 9, 2017). [http://freebeacon.com/politics/christian-pro-life-group-kicked-seattle-coffee-shop-gay-owner/ Christian Pro-Life Group Kicked Out of Seattle Coffee Shop by Gay Owner]. ''The Washington Free Beacon''. Retrieved October 23, 2017.</ref> Leftist organizations which regularly make demands for Christians to be forced to serve homosexuals with no exceptions, such as the ACLU, hypocritically remained silent on this incident.<ref>Randall, Amber (October 10, 2017). [http://dailycaller.com/2017/10/10/aclu-silent-on-gay-owner-who-kicked-out-christians-drinking-coffee-video/ ACLU Silent On Gay Coffee Shop Owner Who Kicked Out Christians [VIDEO]]. ''The Daily Caller''. Retrieved October 23, 2017.</ref> In one reported instance (out of many), the owners of a Pennsylvania bridal shop chose to close their business because of threats from homosexual activists.<ref>Tennant, Michael (March 12, 2018). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/culture/faith-and-morals/item/28474-christian-owned-bridal-shop-closes-under-lgbt-threats Christian-owned Bridal Shop Closes Under LGBT Threats]. ''The New American''. Retrieved March 12, 2018.</ref>

*Caralle, Katelyn (October 9, 2017). [https://freebeacon.com/politics/christian-pro-life-group-kicked-seattle-coffee-shop-gay-owner/ Christian Pro-Life Group Kicked Out of Seattle Coffee Shop by Gay Owner]. ''The Washington Free Beacon''. Retrieved October 23, 2017.</ref> Leftist organizations which regularly make demands for Christians to be forced to serve homosexuals with no exceptions, such as the ACLU, hypocritically remained silent on this incident.<ref>Randall, Amber (October 10, 2017). [https://dailycaller.com/2017/10/10/aclu-silent-on-gay-owner-who-kicked-out-christians-drinking-coffee-video/ ACLU Silent On Gay Coffee Shop Owner Who Kicked Out Christians [VIDEO]]. ''The Daily Caller''. Retrieved October 23, 2017.</ref> In one reported instance (out of many), the owners of a Pennsylvania bridal shop chose to close their business because of threats from homosexual activists.<ref>Tennant, Michael (March 12, 2018). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/culture/faith-and-morals/item/28474-christian-owned-bridal-shop-closes-under-lgbt-threats Christian-owned Bridal Shop Closes Under LGBT Threats]. ''The New American''. Retrieved March 12, 2018.</ref>

Christianity is increasingly coming under attack at public education institutions. For example, in October 2017, Wayne State University, a public institution, de-recognized InterVarsity Christian Fellowship as the student group required its members to be Christians.<ref>Parke, Caleb (March 7, 2018). [http://www.foxnews.com/us/2018/03/07/michigan-university-boots-christian-group-off-campus-because-beliefs.html Christian group sues Michigan university after it is kicked off campus]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved March 7, 2018.<br>After a lawsuit threat, the university allowed back the Christian group:

Christianity is increasingly coming under attack at public education institutions. For example, in October 2017, Wayne State University, a public institution, de-recognized InterVarsity Christian Fellowship as the student group required its members to be Christians.<ref>Parke, Caleb (March 7, 2018). [http://www.foxnews.com/us/2018/03/07/michigan-university-boots-christian-group-off-campus-because-beliefs.html Christian group sues Michigan university after it is kicked off campus]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved March 7, 2018.<br>After a lawsuit threat, the university allowed back the Christian group:

==Further reading==

==Further reading==

* [http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/ U.S Department of State, "International Religious Freedom" annual reports], the most detailed guide to conditions in every country; annual 2001-2008

* [http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/ U.S Department of State, "International Religious Freedom" annual reports], the most detailed guide to conditions in every country; annual 2001-2008

* [http://books.google.com/books?id=fH5H492nmtMC&pg=PA239&lpg=PA239&dq=persecution+by+homosexuals+attach+church&source=bl&ots=x8qEuajjOn&sig=hzKSrRsHFZPwZvarr1opWitt3lo&hl=en&ei=1XsMSvr_BZio8gSh-LXQDw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=8#PPA240,M1 Persecution, By David Limbaugh]

* [https://books.google.com/books?id=fH5H492nmtMC&pg=PA239&lpg=PA239&dq=persecution+by+homosexuals+attach+church&source=bl&ots=x8qEuajjOn&sig=hzKSrRsHFZPwZvarr1opWitt3lo&hl=en&ei=1XsMSvr_BZio8gSh-LXQDw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=8#PPA240,M1 Persecution, By David Limbaugh]

== References ==

== References ==