So you think it consistent with the Bible to inform the authorities where the Underground Railroad slaves were being hidden, or to turn in Anne Frank's family?
So you think comparing child molestors to runaway slaves is a fair comparison?
I was just wondering if you meant what you said "that it's hard to find Biblical basis for keeping quiet about a violation of law, man OR God's."
Obviously it is possible to find such a basis when man's law is in opposition to God's law. Since we seem to agree with the principle here, I shan't go further.
So, in summary: I think the "free exercise" clause absolves priests of the need to violate the "seal of the confessional". However, from my religious perspective, this represents MAN'S law (free exercise) and MAN'S flawed interpretation (confessional seal) trumping GOD's law (protecting the innocent). You will disagree, and I understand all the reasons why. I'm not saying it to offend you, just to identify the point of our divergence.
Fair enough. You don't need to agree with our "free exercise," but your support for the freedom is appreciated.
In all honesty, this is largely a hypothetical question.
SD