OK so he “wanted to build a huge church,” but that’s not why he’s sent to jail is it? And, he’s got a record, and he’s a little nutty. Not every man of God is Joel Olstein. I would hope that he can build his church elsewhere, but that’s not why he’s been jailed. For just wanting to build a church.
Good grief .. have you even bothered to read about his jerk? If you want to build a Church, fine ... please go right ahead and do it. Abide by the laws, include the facilities to protect those who show up (Fire Alarms, Handicapped access, bathrooms, ample Exits, etc). This man has refused to follow the law, and is hiding behind a Bible ... and people who get so emotionally involved about the Bible, that they neglect to look beyond the Bible - are lead astray ... apparently very, very easily.
Anyone - repeating again - anyone can build a church. The first thing is the location, you neighborhood is zoned for private residence. I can't open a asphalt factory in my backyard - because doing so would adversely affect my neighbors. This person is ignoring his neighbors (how very Christ-like, huh?) and ignoring public safety - in a selfish act.
He’s being jailed because he refused to get the proper permits for the type of building he wants to construct. First he got permits under false pretenses claiming he was erecting a building sort of like a shed or garage - a non occupancy building. Secondly he’s made no attempt to conciliate his neighbors valid concerns.
This guy isn’t being persecuted for righteousness. He’s being persecuted because he’s a jerk. If you want to have a discussion about the tyranny of building codes and zoning restrictions that’s fine but these city requirements do exist. This is not religious persecution. It’s a guy who thinks his “rights” trump the rights of others.
As a Christian he should find a way to operate within the law and ameliorate the concerns of his neighbors
If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Romans 12:18