John Locke was born in 1632. He became one of the most influential philosophers and was considered the father of the Enlightenment. Locked studied at Christ Church, Oxford in 1658 (AR). At Oxford he studied medicine, which had a considerable impact on his beliefs. His most famous works include the First Treatise on Government, the Second Treatise on Government, and the Letter Concerning Tolerance (AR). In his treatises, he proclaimed that absolute monarchy was not the right way to govern. These beliefs about the monarchy began with him at a young age. His Letter Concerning Tolerance states that governments have no right to interfere with citizens' beliefs unless they pose a threat to the common good. Locke's ideas became fundamental for Europe and America. In his Letter Concerning Toleration, Locke shows that the magistrate must be a judge of earthly struggles and not focus on religious proceedings, which is necessary because these are struggles that occur in all cultures. John Locke addresses several powerful topics in his text A. Letter Concerning Tolerance. One of these questions is whether or not a magistrate's jurisdiction should cover salvation. Locke's position on this issue was very precise. John Locke believed that no one is responsible for the soul of another. “The care of souls cannot belong to the civil magistrate, for his power consists only in external force” (Locke 4). The soul does not dwell under physical laws or powers, so the magistrate cannot have authority over it. “For no man can, if he will, conform his faith to the precepts of another” (Locke 4). Furthermore, each person has control over their soul and enjoys the ability to exercise that control. Nothing can take this sequel away...... middle of paper ......l. Additionally, in most places in the world a Christian will go, they will face persecution and laws that they may not agree with. John Locke provides key information on such situations. There is a good chance that one day every person will be faced with a situation in which they will have to decide to follow the law even if it does not agree with their faith or morals. No matter what day or age one reads John Locke's statements on Church and State, the arguments presented will always be relevant and vitally important. Works CitedAR “Locke, John” The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Politics. Ed Iain McLean and Alistair McMillan. Oxford University Press 2009. Oxford Reference Online. Oxford University Press. Grove City College. August 28, 2011 http://www.oxfordreference.com/views/ENTRY.html?subview=Main&entry=t86.e754Locke, John. “A letter concerning tolerance.” Print.