ound in The Word that could beused as opposition to school prayer. Further examples can be found in the booksof Mark, Luke, and John (Robinson, The Bible and Public Prayer 2). It wouldappear that Jesus somewhat condemned public prayer and many feel that this isreason enough for all Christians who follow the teachings of the Bible to join the opposition to the ideals of prayer in the public school systems (Robinson, TheBible and Public Prayer 2). This is where I find some discrepancies. Being a religious person, Iattempt to follow the teachings of the Bible to the best of my ability and I am afirm believer that what is written is the truth. However, I feel as if those who arearguing that the Bible condemns public prayer should read into further detail. Itmay be that such public displays are condemned, but doesnt that contradictwith one of the major teachings of the Bible? I have been taught that if a personreally is a firm believer in the teachings of Christ, then they shouldnt hide it.This, just as the public prayer issue, is supported by various Scripture. Oneexample says:You [Christians] are like the light for the whole world...and no onewould light a lamp and put it under a clay pot. A lamp is placed ona lampstand, where it can give light to everyone in the house.Make your light shine, so that others will see the good that you doand will praise your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:14-16).So, wouldnt prohibiting students from having prayer in school or doingaway with open religious expressions by students go against the teachings of theBible just the same as the oppositions plea? If the Christian students of todaysschool system are not allowed to express their religious beliefs at school, then itis like someone is trying to put out their light. Those who have based their viewagainst religion in the school system on only a few Scriptures need to read intofurther detail and possibly should find other grounds for their argument. In conclusi...
