Definitions
Define: Government
Any system of public rule or authority.
Describe the ideal ruler.
The ideal ruler is just and fears God.
What does Genesis 20:11 say about a ruler?
That a ruler who fears God will not commit murder.
Define: Image of God
God gave humans certain qualities that reflect His own character.
How does the Trinity provoke a prototype for human government?
It contains an order of authority.
What does Leviticus 19:14, 32 say about a ruler?
A ruler will not mistreat the disabled or the elderly.
Define: Creation Mandate
First command of God.
What is the Creation Mandate? How does it relate to Government?
It is God's first command to humans; it orders them to practice wise and responsible dominion over God's world. Government is part of this dominion.
What does Leviticus 25:35-36 say about a ruler?
A ruler does not take advantage of the poor.
Define: Human Depravity
Marring of God's image.
Why does human depravity demand government?
The sinful tendencies of human depravity make government necessary to suppress evil.
What does Nehemiah 5:15 say about a ruler?
A ruler will not abuse his position.
Define: Anarchy
Absence of Government.
Why will government continue to exist for eternity even when people are no longer evil and in need of restraint?
Government's purpose is not solely to restrain sin. The seeds of government are found in the Creation Mandate, and an example of government is found in the Trinity.
What does Deuteronomy 17:18-19 say about a ruler?
A ruler will study the Bible.