On December 17, Australian Judge Michael Higgins ruled that Pastors Danny Nalliah and Daniel Scot had breached section 8 of the Racial and Religious Tolerance Act of Victoria State which states that a person cannot engage in conduct that "incites hatred against, serious contempt for, or revulsion or severe ridicule of, that other person or class of persons." Though the law outlines exceptions for religious purposes, Judge Higgins ruled that these exceptions did not apply, since the actions of Nalliah and Scot were not "reasonable and in good faith." In the five-page summary of his decision, Higgins stated that Pastor Scot had "failed to differentiate between Muslims throughout the world, that he preached a literal translation of the Quran and of Muslims’ religious practices which were not mainstream." Interestingly, the statements of Scot ruled to be most offensive were direct quotes from the Quran.
This ruling came as a result of a seminar held by Catch the Fire Ministries to educate Christians on the beliefs of Islam. Three Muslims in attendance took offense at what had been said and instigated action against Nalliah and Scot. For more information on this case, click here. The penalty is to be announced in later January, after both parties have had time to evaluate the decision. Previously, the Islamic Council asked for an apology, compensation and costs, which could amounts to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Pray for Nalliah and Scot, as they face the consequences of this ruling. Pray for groups attempting to have the Racial and Religious Tolerance Act revoked in Australia's Victoria State.
