Posted on 01/25/2012 4:19:24 AM PST by billflax
Christians have grown inured, supportive even of government's relentless expansion. This may partly reflect biblical teaching that Believers submit to worldly authorities; we yield to Caesar what is Caesar's. Perhaps it represents misguided patriotism, a longing to support our nation manifested as trusting government.
But godliness emulates Christ, who remained pure despite being surrounded by impurity. Obedience reveals our walk, not sanction that Washington's actions are necessarily right. True patriotism and biblical justice argues against much of the Federal Government's domestic activity.
Godly governments defend the innocent and punish wrongdoers. Theologian R.C. Sproul clarifies, "The function of government is to restrain evil and to maintain, uphold, and protect the sanctity of life and property." Recently, President Obama relished abortion for allowing "our daughters...to fulfill their dreams."
He must have missed the memo.
God instituted governance around family, church and community each bearing specific responsibilities, sovereign within its sphere. As these go askew, the moral firmament slips leaving man's base instincts unchecked. Cultural chaos ensues.
Yet Washington's primary purpose has become redistributing property to reward non-work. It's interference in matters moral decidedly immoral. It's meddling in faith and family unconscionable attacks on Christianity.
Collisions between church and state become inevitable when government oversteps its bounds. Forcing free birth control is just the latest slap. The Left's antagonism extends beyond radical abortion rights, taxpayers funding Planned Parenthood and foisting same-sex marriage over the objection of voters.
(Excerpt) Read more at realclearreligion.org ...
And politically it is poison for the Conservative coalition. We had 8 years of “Compassionate Conservatism” under Lyndon Baines Bush, which was just social conservatism and economic liberalism. Other Christian Socialists like Huckabee garner a lot of votes. And now the government has jumped from taking 18% of GDP to taking 24% of GDP because Republicans are no longer credible on spending and entitlement issues. It is a recipe for national decline. We are on our way to a Godless Socialist state where everyone sits on their ass, engages in whatever hedonism they want, and expects someone else to support them.
Thanks billflax.
Interesting that you would post this. Ironic is your quoting of RC Spruill on this subject. A couple months ago I heard a message he gave (on radio, traveling) that gave the exact opposite impression. As someone who normally thinks RC is correct, even gifted, I was distraught. Whether or not RC meant it, the theme of his message was sit down, shut up, and obey your God appointed government.
I was more that disappointed, I was angry at RC for that message. I am glad you don’t share that view.
Obey yes, sit down and shut up? Why? We have a voice, if Christians don’t use it we’re doomed.
Thanks for reading and the thoughtful comments.
Do you know what RC’s thoughts are on this? I was floored when I heard this radio sermon, but I’m not sure I heard the whole thing, and not totally sure I interpreted it correctly.
On the radio, you don't always have time to think through every angle like when writing. The radio comes off kind of like a rough draft of an oped.
My guess is (or maybe my hope since I esteem Dr. Sproul) is that he would agree that Christians should be standing up to government. Obey yes unless it conflicts with Christian thinking. But be quiet while injustice occurs - never.
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