Locke’s had three primary reasons for keeping government and religion separate. The first reason was that the inborn needs and concerns of people are distinct and separate from those of the state, which is the role of religion. Humankind was born free, and as such has the right to free thinking and free will, hence the government cannot interfere with humankind's innate concerns such as matters to do with religion. The issue of religion is a decision that comes from within and as such cannot be controlled by an outside force such as government rules.
The second reason as provided by Locke was that the state is in no position to direct or dictate people's personal and religious convictions and understandings. The third reason for separation of government and religion is because the government plays no role in the salvation of humankind's soul. The study of religion and the path to heaven, which results from salvation, is distinct from the role government plays in the lives of people (Marshall, 1994). I think that today the third reason is more acceptable because the government cannot secure humankind's salvation. Locke's view of religious tolerance would not require the removal of religious symbols from the public view because his idea of tolerance is somewhat considerate.
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According to Locke, tolerance, denotes restraint as opposed to approval and Locke defends rather than praise religious diversity. This means that people do not need to approve of religious diversity, but to exercise tolerance of the same, thus government's inability to require removal of religious symbols from the public view. Based on Locke'sarguemnt, the government would only have the right to suppress a religion or some of their beliefs if they infringe on the rights or free-will of others. Religious toleration does indeed divide us as people rather than uniting us since it allows for everyone to choose their fmr of worship, which results in more religions that further separate people. For example, within Islam, Hinduism, and Christianity many different denominations have developed and are still developing, which begs the question, are the current religions not sufficient enough for spiritual nourishment? It is clear that the idea of religious tolerance is giving more people the excuse to form their own beliefs, which results in the further division of people as opposed to unification.
Reference
Marshall, J. (1994). John Locke: resistance, religion and responsibility. Cambridge University Press.
