On the other hand, the courts can resolve defamation claims involving statements accusing church members of other wrongs requiring no interpretation of religious doctrine.

When a church-related dispute can be resolved by applying neutral principles of law without inquiry into religious doctrine and without resolving religious controversy, the civil courts may adjudicate the dispute -.

Religious doctrine and views contrary to this principle of law are unaffected, and people can continue to associate with the religion that best reflects their views.

The church property dispute was based on religious doctrine and practice, and secular courts should not have intervened.

An even more controversial direction was taken for the new university based on a daring vision that higher education should be completely separated from religious doctrine.