Officials in San Diego County recently told minister Dave Jones to stop hosting a Bible study in his home, calling it an “unlawful use of land.” He was told to “stop religious assembly or apply for a major use permit.”
Jones said he faces fines if he continues to host the group of about 15 people.
Dean Broyles, president and chief counsel of The Western Center for Law & Policy in California, said the county is ignoring the First Amendment. “The biggest thing that stands out for me is the concept that the government may not prohibit the free exercise of religion,” he said. “Yet, that’s exactly what they’re trying to do in a minister’s home with a small home Bible study.”
Broyles has responded to the county. Meantime, Jones continues to host the study. “Your duty to God is greater than your duty to man,” Jones said. “And if God calls you to pray and fellowship with fellow believers in your home, certainly do not stop.”
