Christians, the State, and Our Ultimate Allegiance

 

Summary

In today's discussion, we explored the complex relationship between Christians and the state, emphasizing the need for a balanced, biblically-informed perspective. The state, as a divine institution, is established by God to restrain evil and promote good. Despite its flaws and the frustrations it may cause, it is essential to honor and respect governmental authorities as they serve a purpose ordained by God. This respect does not mean blind allegiance but a recognition of the state's role in maintaining order and justice in a fallen world.

We also examined the human aspect of the state, acknowledging that it is subject to corruption and failure. The Bible calls us to be vigilant and to hold governments accountable, especially in their duty to protect the weak and vulnerable. This responsibility is a reflection of God's justice and compassion, and as Christians, we are called to advocate for these values within our communities.

Furthermore, we delved into the dangers of statism, where the state assumes a god-like status, demanding ultimate allegiance and control over all aspects of life. Historical examples, such as ancient Egypt and the Soviet Union, illustrate the perils of a state that oversteps its bounds and becomes a demonic institution. In contrast, the Bible assures us that such powers will ultimately fall before the sovereignty of God.

Finally, we touched on socialism, recognizing its varied interpretations and the potential pitfalls of a system that prioritizes state control over individual ownership. While the state has a role in caring for the poor, it must not do so at the expense of personal freedom and responsibility.

As Christians, our ultimate allegiance is to God's eternal kingdom, which transcends earthly governments. We are called to engage with the world, promoting justice and love, while keeping our eyes fixed on the heavenly city that awaits us. In doing so, we become a light to the world, demonstrating the transformative power of the gospel.

Key Takeaways:

- Divine Institution of the State: The state is established by God to restrain evil and promote good. Despite its imperfections, it serves a divine purpose that requires our respect and honor. This perspective challenges us to see beyond our frustrations and recognize the state's role in God's plan. [04:49]

- Human Responsibility and Corruption: While the state is a divine institution, it is also a human one, susceptible to corruption and failure. Christians are called to hold governments accountable, advocating for justice and protection of the weak, reflecting God's compassion and righteousness. [16:11]

- Dangers of Statism: When the state assumes ultimate authority and demands allegiance, it becomes a demonic institution. Historical examples remind us of the perils of such power, but the Bible assures us that God's sovereignty will prevail over any earthly power. [25:04]

- Socialism and State Control: Socialism, with its varied interpretations, poses challenges when it prioritizes state control over individual freedom. While the state has a role in caring for the poor, it must not do so at the expense of personal responsibility and ownership. [32:58]

- Ultimate Allegiance to God's Kingdom: Our ultimate allegiance is to God's eternal kingdom, which transcends earthly governments. As Christians, we are called to engage with the world, promoting justice and love, while keeping our eyes fixed on the heavenly city that awaits us. [38:39]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:39] - Introduction and Humor
- [01:41] - Christian Perspective on Politics
- [02:34] - Polarization and Outrage
- [04:03] - Listening and Loving
- [04:49] - State as a Divine Institution
- [05:44] - Lessons from 1 Peter
- [07:18] - Freedom and Responsibility
- [08:50] - Government's Role
- [10:21] - Chaos vs. Order
- [12:13] - Government as Deacons
- [13:00] - Human Responsibility
- [14:29] - Justice and Protection
- [16:11] - Corruption and Outrage
- [17:50] - Psalm 82 and Justice
- [19:38] - Homelessness and Compassion
- [21:54] - Trust in God, Not Princes
- [25:04] - Statism and Demonic State
- [27:31] - Revelation's Warning
- [29:13] - Victory of the Lamb
- [32:58] - Understanding Socialism
- [36:55] - Christian Engagement
- [38:39] - Eternal Perspective
- [40:18] - Materialism vs. Hope
- [41:22] - Conclusion and Call to Love

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. 1 Peter 2:13-17
2. Romans 13:1-7
3. Psalm 82:3-4

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Observation Questions:

1. According to 1 Peter 2:13-17, what is the role of the state, and how should Christians respond to governmental authorities? [06:36]

2. In Romans 13:1-7, how does Paul describe the relationship between Christians and the state? What reasons does he give for this relationship?

3. What does Psalm 82:3-4 say about the responsibilities of those in power, and how does this relate to the sermon’s discussion on justice and protection of the weak? [17:50]

4. How does the sermon describe the dangers of statism, and what historical examples are given to illustrate this point? [25:04]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the concept of the state as a divine institution challenge or affirm your current understanding of government? [04:49]

2. In what ways does the sermon suggest Christians should hold governments accountable, and how does this reflect God's justice and compassion? [16:11]

3. What are the potential dangers of a state assuming a god-like status, and how does the sermon suggest Christians should respond to such situations? [25:04]

4. How does the sermon’s discussion on socialism and state control relate to the biblical call for personal responsibility and freedom? [32:58]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your current attitude towards governmental authorities. How can you show respect and honor while still holding them accountable to God’s standards? [04:49]

2. In what ways can you actively advocate for justice and protection of the weak in your community, as encouraged by the sermon? [17:50]

3. Consider a time when you felt the state overstepped its bounds. How did you respond, and how might you respond differently in light of the sermon’s teachings? [25:04]

4. How can you balance the call to care for the poor with the need to maintain personal freedom and responsibility in your own life? [32:58]

5. What steps can you take to ensure your ultimate allegiance remains with God’s eternal kingdom, rather than earthly governments? [38:39]

6. Identify a specific area where you can be a light to the world, demonstrating the transformative power of the gospel in your community. How will you take action this week? [41:22]

7. How can you cultivate a mindset that prioritizes hope in God’s eternal kingdom over materialism and earthly possessions? [40:18]

Devotional

Day 1: The State as a Divine Institution
The state is established by God to restrain evil and promote good. Despite its imperfections, it serves a divine purpose that requires our respect and honor. This perspective challenges us to see beyond our frustrations and recognize the state's role in God's plan. While it is easy to become disillusioned with governmental systems due to their flaws, it is important to remember that they are part of a larger divine framework. This does not mean blind allegiance but rather a recognition of the state's role in maintaining order and justice in a fallen world. As Christians, we are called to respect and honor these institutions, understanding that they are part of God's design for society. [04:49]

"For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment." (Romans 13:1-2, ESV)

Reflection: In what ways can you show respect and honor to governmental authorities this week, even when you disagree with them?


Day 2: Human Responsibility and Corruption
While the state is a divine institution, it is also a human one, susceptible to corruption and failure. Christians are called to hold governments accountable, advocating for justice and protection of the weak, reflecting God's compassion and righteousness. This dual nature of the state requires vigilance and discernment from believers. It is crucial to engage with the political process, not just as citizens but as representatives of God's kingdom, ensuring that the state fulfills its duty to protect the vulnerable and uphold justice. This responsibility is a reflection of God's justice and compassion, and as Christians, we are called to advocate for these values within our communities. [16:11]

"Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked." (Psalm 82:3-4, ESV)

Reflection: How can you actively participate in holding your local government accountable to protect the weak and vulnerable in your community?


Day 3: The Dangers of Statism
When the state assumes ultimate authority and demands allegiance, it becomes a demonic institution. Historical examples remind us of the perils of such power, but the Bible assures us that God's sovereignty will prevail over any earthly power. Statism, where the state takes on a god-like status, is a dangerous ideology that can lead to oppression and tyranny. As Christians, it is important to recognize these dangers and remain steadfast in our ultimate allegiance to God. The Bible provides assurance that no earthly power can stand against the sovereignty of God, and we are called to trust in His ultimate authority over all things. [25:04]

"Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation. When his breath departs, he returns to the earth; on that very day his plans perish." (Psalm 146:3-4, ESV)

Reflection: Are there areas in your life where you have placed too much trust in earthly authorities? How can you shift your trust back to God?


Day 4: Socialism and State Control
Socialism, with its varied interpretations, poses challenges when it prioritizes state control over individual freedom. While the state has a role in caring for the poor, it must not do so at the expense of personal responsibility and ownership. The balance between state intervention and individual freedom is delicate and requires careful consideration. As Christians, we are called to support systems that uplift the poor and vulnerable while also promoting personal responsibility and stewardship. It is important to engage in discussions about economic systems with a biblically-informed perspective, ensuring that our values align with God's principles of justice and compassion. [32:58]

"Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality." (Romans 12:11-13, ESV)

Reflection: How can you contribute to the needs of others while also encouraging personal responsibility and stewardship in your community?


Day 5: Ultimate Allegiance to God's Kingdom
Our ultimate allegiance is to God's eternal kingdom, which transcends earthly governments. As Christians, we are called to engage with the world, promoting justice and love, while keeping our eyes fixed on the heavenly city that awaits us. This eternal perspective helps us navigate the complexities of political and social systems, reminding us that our true citizenship is in heaven. By focusing on God's kingdom, we can become a light to the world, demonstrating the transformative power of the gospel. Our actions and decisions should reflect our commitment to God's eternal purposes, influencing the world around us with His love and justice. [38:39]

"But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself." (Philippians 3:20-21, ESV)

Reflection: In what ways can you prioritize your allegiance to God's kingdom in your daily life, especially in your interactions with others?

Quotes



The Bible does not tell us everything about the state, but it surely tells us the most important things. It tells us the necessary things. It directs us in our thinking about the state and it challenges us. So, this morning I want to think about the state under three points. And the first is that the state is a divine institution. However much we may get annoyed at government, whether local or state or federal, we have to always have clearly in mind that the state is a divine institution. [00:04:49]

Peter is encouraging the Christians to whom he writes to think carefully about the state as a divine institution, because if we read between the lines here it would appear that some Christians were saying, "I am free in Christ. I am delivered in Christ. I am a citizen of a new kingdom. I am looking forward to a new heaven and earth in which righteousness dwells, and that means I don't have to pay attention to this government on earth anymore. I am free." And Peter says, "You are free in Christ, but that freedom does not give you the right to despise or disparage the government God has set over you on earth. [00:07:31]

The government's calling, the government's task is to punish evil and promote the good. And however little we think the government accurately and successfully does that, that is the calling laid upon the government by God, a calling that we have to honor, Peter says. And that is interesting, isn't it, honor the emperor? It is not just a grudging obedience to which we are called, but we have to recognize in the ruling authorities, in the governing authorities, the work of God, the purpose of God, the calling of God. [00:09:13]

Now, the state is also a human institution. It is a divine institution, but it is a human institution. And that means we as humans have responsibility for it. God has given us that responsibility. And the state in history has taken many different forms, hasn't it? We have had monarchies, we have had oligarchies, we have had dictatorships, we have had republics, we have had democracies; there is a whole range of forms that the state can take by human choice. [00:13:23]

And in every human form of government, the basic duty of government remains to do justice and particularly, to protect the weak. You know, one of the things that outrages me and amazes me is the endless repetition after bad news is reported on television, that we know people are basically good. Well, maybe not Vladimir Putin, but, you know, everybody else is basically good. Well, maybe not those Russian oligarchs that have taken money and bought billion-dollar yachts. [00:14:29]

Psalm 82 is another powerful psalm that speaks of that call to powerful governing figures to govern faithfully. Psalm 82 warns judges not to be unjust or show partiality to the wicked. What a strong statement that is! Do not show partiality to the wicked. Psalm 82 calls governments to "give justice to the weak and fatherless, to maintain the right of the afflicted and destitute." We have to let those words grip us. [00:17:50]

The Bible calls us as political people to have compassion and to care about the whole community, and I think we have to be very serious about that and let God's Word challenge us. Now, that doesn't mean that practical political decisions necessarily become easy once we are concerned and compassionate and pursuing justice and pursuing the protection of the weak. One of the huge problems in California right now is homelessness. Many parts of California, the streets are just full of homeless people, and we are told that many, most of these homeless people are either drug addicted or mentally ill. [00:19:29]

But when we look at the homeless, we should not just be angry. We should be compassionate and ask, "Is there a way to help?" And as I say, we may have very legitimate differences among us as to what is the way to help, but we as Christians ought to be a people of compassion and recognize that too often our governments have been corrupted, not to try to help the weak, but to help themselves. And we should be outraged about that. [00:21:54]

But the state can become a demonic institution when the state claims for itself all power, all meaning, all direction of life. One of the great ancient examples of that was ancient Egypt. And so, it is not so surprising that the great story of the deliverance of Israel out of Egypt is a confrontation between the true and living God and Pharaoh who claimed to be god. Pharaoh, who in his leadership of the state, was both king and priest and god. And therefore, all honor and obedience had to be given to Pharaoh. That is statism in its ultimate form. [00:25:04]

And this kind of demonizing of the state always happens in places where the true and living God is neglected and rejected. And the great picture of that in Scripture is the "great prostitute" of Revelation 17, which is in some ways a picture of the Roman Empire, but is much more than that as a representation of a state that claims the worship of its citizens. Revelation 17 talks about the "great prostitute" as "sitting on the back of the scarlet beast." That is Satan. So, the state is serving Satan in that picture. [00:27:31]

Socialism is a word that has many different meanings. When I was growing up in America if you did not like your political opponent, you called him a socialist. And that meant the end of him. If you got the "socialist" label to stick in America, that was the political end of somebody. Socialism is a word that can mean many different things in different circumstances and to different people. R.C. Sproul would have said to us, you know, "Some words are 'eu-quivocal' and others are equivocal." Some words always have a single meaning. Other words have multiple meanings. [00:32:58]

As Christians, it seems to me, we ought to think this way. This world is important and we ought to seek to be as faithful, as justice promoting, as loving in this world as we can be, and we ought to use what influence we have, that our government would reflect real justice and real love. But while we believe that sincerely, while we should work for that earnestly, we have to even more fundamentally remind ourselves, as Hebrews 13 tells us, "We have here no continuing city." [00:38:39]

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Transcript
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