The Necessity of Government
Humans were created in who's image
God
What is the only sure foundation for analyzing and critiquing human government?
God's Word
What does Paul say about praying for government officials?
We should pray for them
Can Christians be involved in government without being corrupted by its power?
Yes
any system of public rule or authority
government
Exercising wise and responsible dominion over God's world is the fulfillment of
the Creation Mandate
Moral codes should reflect who’s character?
God's
Participation in government requires that one
learn how government operates.
What kind of obedience does God require?
the absence of any government
anarchy
In what 2 ways are humans a unique creation?
The human race was created in God’s image. Humans were given the task of exercising dominion over the whole earth
List 3 common actions governments perform to provide order to society.
create traffic laws
coordinate relief efforts during natural disasters
keep official records
create zoning and building laws
maintain public facilities, such as parks and libraries.
Why should Christians witness to government officials
because Christians have dual citizenship on earth and in heaven, they must proclaim the salvation message to government officials.(because they have been enlightened by the truth of the gospel)
Why should Christians obey government
Christians should obey their government in order to maintain a good testimony because God ordained government to fulfill certain responsibilities.
love and devotion to one's country
patriotism
What term describes the belief that every part of each person’s being (mind, will, emotions) has been twisted by his fall into sin?
human depravity
What is a moral vacuum? Can laws be created in one?
Void of morals. No.
How might Christian involvement in government be both permissible and desirable?
Christian involvement in government can more effectively promote righteousness and form stable governments that treat good as good and evil as evil.
What are some positive ways in which Christians can interact with government?
-vote for good candidates
-become a candidate for governmental office
-pray for those in authority
-voicing opinions
-supporting specific candidates
governments should encourage people to do right and respect one another's rights and that governments should punish wrongdoers
Justice
Was human government created by God or mankind? Explain your answer.
Humans are called to exercise dominion over the world. Mankind was originally created good, but God’s image was marred by sin. Because of human depravity, mankind must have government to rein in his sinful nature. Even when sin ends and Christ rules over the new earth, there will still be a government under the rulership of Christ.
Discuss the obligations of the government
Ensure Justice
Provide Order
Provide National Defense and Public Safety
Promote Moral Behavior
Address Poverty
Acts 5:29
“We ought to obey God rather than men.”
When would it be acceptable to disobey the government? Explain.
When obedience to two authorities is in conflict, Christians must obey the higher authority. God is the highest authority, and His laws must be followed above all others.
conformity to the standard of God's character
Righteousness