Both are designed to protect the rights of a minority. Now that they are a majority, they've lost that fear and have replaced it with arrogance toward minorities. If they are willing to trample on the rights of a minority within their own faith on matters of conviction and conscience, they will not find it hard to trample on the rights of a minority of another faith in matters of conviction and conscience. Without such safeguards, the government is no longer democratic but autocratic and is but one step removed from totalitarianism. It is characteristic of totalitarian regimes that they will harbor no open dissent.
Democratic regimes thrive on the free exchange of ideas and opinions and welcome dissent.
Oklahoma Baptists used to believe in democracy. I think the actions of Oklahoma Baptist leaders in regards to their treatment of Mainstream Baptists were unconscionable. We will wait and see if during the coming months any Oklahoma Baptist pastors develop a conscience on this matter. There is cause for hope. I've spoken some strong words.