In a year where politics are as inevitable as the change of seasons, Gary DeMar dives deep into the pivotal question: What role should Christians play in politics?
The notion that Christians should avoid government is mistaken both logically and biblically. In fact, government is about much more than what we call “politics.” Government is much broader and encompasses self-government, family government, church government, and civil government.
The Foundations of Government
Reflecting on his foundational work—God and Government—DeMar outlines how these different layers of governance interact. He emphasizes that family governance is crucial as it teaches children self-governance, which then translates into their roles within the church and civil society.
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 NowThis interconnectedness is not just philosophical; it has practical implications for how we understand our roles within society. Effective civil governance is built upon the principles established in families and churches.
Biblical Insights on Civil Government
Scripture is far from silent on these issues. The Bible includes many books on domestic and civil governance; there’s even two books in the OT called “Kings.” Gary points to the biblical basis for civil government, referencing Exodus 18, where Moses learns the importance of decentralized governance. In today’s context, this translates to recognizing the layered structure of authority in the U.S., from local to federal levels.
However, Christian involvement in civil government isn’t to empower and enlarge the state; the goal is to decrease its overreach and self-proclaimed sovereignty. Jesus is King, not the state. While we cannot impose Christianity on others, we can and should work to see Christianity inform every decision being made by the state.