Statement in response to Bill C-9, "Bill C-9: An Act to amend the Criminal Code (hate propaganda, hate crime and access to religious or cultural places)
Several people have made us aware of Bill C-9 -- the so-called "Combatting Hate Act" -- and particularly how removing the religious exemption clause from the Criminal Code might impact us as a church.
The first thing to say is that it's always hard to know the degree to which this bill will actually be used against Christians. On January 8th, 2022 Canada’s criminal code was amended to include the practice of so-called “conversion therapy” as a punishable offense, carrying with it a penalty of up to five years in prison. As of 2025, there have been no reported criminal charges or prosecutions.
Nevertheless, it does once again signal the Canadian government's hostile intentions against Christians, and ultimately Christ.
None of this should surprise us. It is clear from passages such as Psalm 2 that kings and rulers have, since the beginning of time, conspired together to overthrow the rule of God. Since they can't assault him directly, they make war against his children.
Not only this, but we read elsewhere that this rage isn't merely practical or political. It is stoked and sustained by the devil himself.
"Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to wage war against the rest of her offspring—those who keep God’s commands and hold fast their testimony about Jesus." Rev. 12:17
No part of this bill has anything to do with protecting people from "hate." It is about rejecting the rule of Christ, and the authority of his Word on our lives.
So for the record, and in case there was any doubt, we will not be changing anything should this amendment, or any part of Bill C-9, pass. With God's help, we will continue to preach, teach, and disciple according to the whole council of God -- not just the parts the state deems acceptable.
God, not the state, and ESPECIALLY not the communist death cult that is the current Canadian government, knows best what will lead to happy, whole, flourishing Canadians.
And Christians? Let's be done with the fear. If covid taught us anything, it's that fear leads to concessions, concessions lead to faithlessness, and faithlessness leads to lamps being snuffed out.
Let's keep loving, and serving each other. Let's keep building, and fighting.
"Don’t be afraid of what you are about to suffer. The devil will throw some of you into prison to test you . . . But if you remain faithful even when facing death, I will give you the crown of life. "