Christian activists are concerned that three believers losing their discrimination cases will result in more falling foul of equality laws by the introduction of the Government's Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill.
Relationships counsellor Gary McFarlane, registrar Lillian Ladele, and nurse Shirley Chaplin attempted to take their cases to the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). But judges rejected their requests.
Five years ago, Mr McFarlane was dismissed by charity Relate after telling bosses he didn't feel he could offer his services to same-sex couples.
After taking his case through all available courts in the UK, he headed to Europe where judges ruled his employers were right to take the action they did to prevent discriminating against those who used the service.
Registrar Lillian Ladele was disciplined by Islington Council for refusing to conduct same-sex civil partnerships, and nurse Shirley Chaplin was demoted after refusing to take off a crucifix. Mr McFarlane says he took legal action to the highest level to try to protect the freedom of other Christians.
Speaking to Premier's Marcus Jones he says he has no regrets after admitting defeat in his case but hopes other believers will continue to fight:
The Coalition for Marriage has been reacting to the case of Lillian Ladele, who claims she was forced out of her job over her beliefs about marriage. The campaign group believes the final verdict 'blows apart' promises made by Government ministers that public servants like teachers and others would not be victimised for their beliefs.
Campaign Director Colin Hart said:
"This decision represents an unprecedented attack on religious freedom and expression.
"It was an important case about the civil liberty of people who believe in traditional marriage.
"Islington Council forced Lillian out of her job to send a message about political correctness, and the UK courts failed to protect her rights.
"While the Bill to redefine marriage is being rushed through Parliament, this case is a chilling reminder of the coercive power of one-sided equality laws."
The Christian Legal Centre is also voicing its disappointment with the decision.
Director Andrea Minichiello Williams said:
"With sexual orientation a 'protected characteristic' under UK equality laws, Christians' consciences concerning marriage and sexual ethics is not protected.
"We have seen time and again in British courts that when they come into conflict, sexual orientation rights trump freedom of religion rights.
"The decision of the Grand Chamber panel shows that the European Court cannot be relied upon.
"The Government needs to take note.
"The ECHR can no longer be considered a crutch to lean on if Christians face legal challenge in relation to potential same sex marriage legislation."
The Government has sought to provide assurance by saying it would protect freedom of conscience for Christians if the Bill becomes law. But the Christian Legal Centre and the Coalition for Marriage believe the outcome of the three cases shows that these assurances are 'worthless'.
A Government spokesperson said:
"We are absolutely committed to the rights of Christians and people of all beliefs to follow their faith openly and being able to do so at work, or outside work, is a vital freedom.
"Article 9 of the European Convention on Human Rights already guarantees the right to freedom of religion. Our Marriage (same-Sex Couples ) Bill will not interfere with those freedoms.
"Employees will be free to express their personal religious or philosophical views, as long as this does not affect their ability to do their job."
The House of Lords is due to vote on the Bill at Second Reading next Monday June, 3rd.