Also we certify you, that touching any of the priests and Levites, singers, porters, Nethinims, or ministers of this house of God, it shall not be lawful to impose toll, tribute, or custom, upon them. (Ezra 7:24)
I was (surprised is not the right word) to see this in the Bible. The person making this decree was Artaxerxes, a pagan king. But, here is an example of giving tax breaks to the “clergy.” I haven’t studied it out, but I can’t imagine that this passage did not bear some influence on the founders of our American government when they debated the issues of tax breaks for religious entities and people.
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About Jeff Voegtlin
Dr. Jeff Voegtlin has been in Christian service for over twenty years. He is an associate pastor at Fairhaven Baptist Church in Chesterton, Indiana, and a Vice President of Fairhaven Baptist College. As conductor of the church and schools' orchestra program, and overseer of the educational program of the college, his teaching has helped to train hundreds of young adults to prepare for full-time ministry. After completing a bachelor's degree from Fairhaven Baptist College, he received a master's degree in Bible from Pensacola Christian College. In 2007, he completed the requirements to finish a doctor's degree in education from Bob Jones University. Dr. Voegtlin is available for seminars in instrumental and choral music practice and philosophy, for education seminars, and to preach and present the college ministry.
You’re right.