There are rational and theological reasons to support pluralism. Rationally, although based in the Hebraic worldview, religious requirements have always resulted in persecution. The human condition to desire power and the potency of religion for expressing our spirits makes for perfect conditions for the abuse of power. Even in societies with religious freedom, passive persecution is common as any group (again, religion being the basis for tight communities) tend to fear and avoid anyone unlike them (e.g. the legalistic Baptists who literally frown on dancing, as a stereotype).
Theologically, Christianity obligates respect for other’s beliefs as God respects our response to His holiness. From Nicholson’s article referenced in one of the lessons in this course: “Christians … believe in the Hebraic God—a deity who limits his own will out of respect for the will of man and the desire for a love that is uncoerced, voluntary, and true…” (“Islam is Different—and That’s Okay”)
