In simple terms, the statement suggests that the acceptance of multiple viewpoints within a secular society can ultimately have more detrimental effects than outright persecution or discrimination based on religion. This implies that while overt hostility might be easier to identify and counteract, the subtle erosion of religious values through pluralism could lead to greater long-term harm.
Beyond its surface meaning, this quote reflects broader concerns about cultural and moral decay within secular societies. Schaeffer is cautioning against a gradual loss of traditional ethical frameworks as more diverse beliefs are accommodated without any clear guiding principles or shared sense of morality. He argues that when society becomes increasingly indifferent to the foundational tenets of religious belief systems, it can lead to societal fragmentation and a weakening of moral cohesion. This erosion happens slowly over time, making it harder for people to recognize until significant damage has been done.
Francis Schaeffer was a prominent theologian and philosopher who lived from 1912 to 1984. He is well-known for his writings on Christianity in modern culture and the relationship between faith and reason. His work often focused on defending Christian beliefs against secular criticism, and he advocated for engaging with contemporary intellectual trends while preserving traditional religious values. Schaeffer's insights continue to influence discussions about morality and religion in public life today.
