Open letter to Escambia County Commissioner Whitehead,
Render to Caesar?
4-11-06
Dear Escambia County Commissioner Whitehead,
I watched the channel 10 news yesterday where you said that the Church ministry at Dinosaur Adventure Land must “render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and right now Caesar demands a building permit. If they don’t get one, we may have to tear the buildings down.”
It always amazes me how people like you quote half a verse out of context to prove their point. The rest of the verse is never quoted. Matthew 22:21 “They say unto him, Caesar’s. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s.” The Church is not Caesars! Also Mark 12:17, Luke 20:25.
There are a few things you seem to forget:
- The Church ministry you are referring to is not a 501-c-3 corporation of the state.
- No churches in the county got permits of any kind for hundreds of years.
- They have invited you out many times to inspect for safety and health yet you don’t come.
- They have had licensed engineers and electricians inspect the buildings.
- They have been open for 5 years without problem
- They stood through three hurricanes with no damage while your own building was damaged badly.
- Dictators down through history have “won” battles with those who oppose them. Hitler “won” over the Jews. Stalin “won” over the Christians in Russia, the catholic church “won” over the millions of Christians they killed, OJ “won” his court battle. Don’t think because you “won” in court that proves you are right.
Have you prayed about what you are doing? Please do not hide behind a court order or directions from the attorney. Please don’t tell me you are just obeying orders, Hitler’s men said the same thing at their trial. You claim to be a Christian and I believe you are but please just answer these two questions, Have you prayed about what you are doing, and do you feel God has led you in your decision?
Richard of www.richardsayshome.com.