Gary begins discussing recent comments made by John MacArthur about Christian Nationalism, but he takes time to set up the full context.
Many wonder why Jesus did not say more about the individual’s responsibility to civil authorities. (He said more than most people realize.) Why did Jesus not advocate the overthrow of the Roman regime? Why did Jesus not establish a system of civil government for the new Christian Church to implement in the cultures where the gospel was to be preached?
First, the primary purpose of Jesus’ mission was “to seek and to save that which is lost” (Luke 19:10). There can be no godly civil government if those in authority do not have new hearts. Only the gospel can change an individual so that he will first be a self-governing individual able to govern others. Moreover, the citizens as a nation must be self-governed. Only the converting power of the gospel can bring this about. This was the starting point and major emphasis of Jesus’ ministry.
Second, the gospel writers, through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, also emphasized the gospel message and the command to obey all that Jesus had taught. Obviously this included commands that had reference to civil government. All the nations of the world were to come under the authority of the Lord Jesus Christ: “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you…” (Matthew 28:18- 20). The nations were to adopt the teaching of Jesus Christ who is God.
Third, the New Testament writers proclaimed that Jesus was the King in opposition to all other kings who attempt to replace His authority with their own authority: “And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written, King of kings, and Lord of lords” (Revelation 19:16). This statement was directed to earthly kings and kingdoms. It was a major emphasis of Jesus.
Fourth, the program for the proper administration of civil government was already part of the Old Testament message; there was no need to repeat what had already been given. Paul says, “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). These verses assure the Christian that the Bible is adequate to answer all of life’s situations. This includes the area of civil government.
Fifth, when Jesus does encounter civil authorities, we can expect Him to respond in such a way as to support the validity of the law as it pertained to civil government (Matthew 5:17-19).
God and Government
With a fresh new look, more images, an extensive subject and scripture index, and an updated bibliography, God and Government is ready to prepare a whole new generation to take on the political and religious battles confronting Christians today. May it be used in a new awakening of Christians in America—not just to inform minds, but to stimulate action and secure a better tomorrow for our posterity.
Buy NowGary begins discussing recent comments made by John MacArthur about Christian Nationalism, but he takes time to set up the full context. Christians often get frustrated by political engagement, but this doesn’t mean we should not be involved. Private conservations, evangelism, and discipleship are just as important to changing the system, but we don’t do one to the exclusion of the other.