This is a great book for those Christians struggling with understanding the government and how to think and act Christ-like to those in authority.
MacArthur gives a Christian perspective on the government and political involvement. He discusses the purpose of government and the Christian’s responsibility toward it.
MacArthur also teaches in this “Bible For Life” series about the Christian’s obligation toward taxes. Basically, Christians are to pay their taxes. He demonstrates this with Jesus’ teaching on taxes.
Here is a just a quick "Why Government Can't Save You" by John MacArthur
Of course, no book like this would be complete without a couple of examples from the Bible. MacArthur uses the example of Daniel and Paul to show how a Christian should live and interact (maybe even be a part of the government) with the government and its authorities.
Christians are to support their leaders and obey them, provided the leaders are not giving orders in direct violation of God’s Word. Finally, there is a chapter about how to live in a pagan society.
There is also a sermon from Charles Haddon Spurgeon at the end of the book about Citizenship in Heaven. The book includes a study guide for group study or further individual reflection.
True to MacArthur’s style, this book is filled with scriptural references. I highly recommend this book for anyone to read. This is this best book I have ever read about how a Christian should respond and deal with their government.
Showing posts with label Why Government Can't Save You. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Why Government Can't Save You. Show all posts
September 12, 2008
September 10, 2008
Chapter #9 - How to Live in a Pagan Culture
"The church will really change society for the better only when individual believers make their chief concern their own spiritual maturity, which means living in a way that honors God's commands and glorifies His name." page 130
Christians are not called to use their life simply to protest the government. We are called to proclaim the gospel and live lives that show its transforming power.
There are four areas of spiritual truth that Christians need to be reminded about
Christians are not called to use their life simply to protest the government. We are called to proclaim the gospel and live lives that show its transforming power.
There are four areas of spiritual truth that Christians need to be reminded about
- A Christian's Duties
- Their unsaved condition
- Their salvation
- Their mission
What our our Christian Duties? pages 132 - 134
- Obey government and all authority
- Be prepared for good works
- Do not malign anyone
- Be peaceful and gentle to everyone
- Be considerate of others
"And although we detest the sinful, unbiblical aspects of society, we must remember that the same ungodly characteristics once defined our lives. Such awareness will keep us humble and prevent us from putting down sinners simply because they rub us the wrong way by their values and lifestyles." pages 138-139
"If anything should prevent us from feeling hostile toward the corrupters of contemporary society and keep us from wasting our time trying to bring about moral and political reform, it should be the reminder that all the wonderful benefits of salvation derive from Jesus Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross." page 143
"We must remember to be engaged in good works, which Scripture says will result from salvation." page 144
September 08, 2008
Chapter #8 - Paul's Example before Worldly Authorities
"A good conscience is not the supreme factor in determining whether or not our actions toward authority are right or wrong (Paul's conscience once permitted him to oppose Christ)." page 115
"When Rome eventually persecuted and killed many in the early church, it was not because Christians were revolutionaries but because they refused to worship the emperor." page 122
"... what happened to Paul in his confrontations with worldly authorities clearly reveals the triumph of God's sovereignty over human affairs." page 124
"... Paul used his circumstances as an opportunity to witness, or at least speak a word that honored God or edified others." page 125
"... Paul always endeavored to maintain the proper attitude." page 125
"... all of Paul's words and actions before various worldly authorities summarize for us in a practical way and remind us again ... that God expects the believer to relate properly to governmental authority." pages 125-126
"The apostle Paul indeed was a model citizen and a knowledgeable one." page 112
For more information about Paul and his ministry, read his inspired New Testament letters.
"When Rome eventually persecuted and killed many in the early church, it was not because Christians were revolutionaries but because they refused to worship the emperor." page 122
"... what happened to Paul in his confrontations with worldly authorities clearly reveals the triumph of God's sovereignty over human affairs." page 124
"... Paul used his circumstances as an opportunity to witness, or at least speak a word that honored God or edified others." page 125
"... Paul always endeavored to maintain the proper attitude." page 125
"... all of Paul's words and actions before various worldly authorities summarize for us in a practical way and remind us again ... that God expects the believer to relate properly to governmental authority." pages 125-126
"The apostle Paul indeed was a model citizen and a knowledgeable one." page 112
For more information about Paul and his ministry, read his inspired New Testament letters.
September 05, 2008
Chapter #7 - Daniel's Uncompromising Civil Service
"There is no better Old Testament example than Daniel of one who had an ideal relationship with secular authority - he maintained his walk as a believer and his life as a responsible citizen in perfect harmony." page 99
"Daniel's uncompromising stance regarding dietary matters reminds us again of how we sometimes must relate to our leaders: at time we will have to refuse obedience if such compliance would violate God's will." page 102
"In all of our interaction with civil authority, we should strive, with God's help, to act from a foundation of unwavering excellence - spiritually, morally, and ethically." page 105
"Our duty is simply to live consistently, obeying the principles from Scripture we know to be true." page 106
You can read more about Daniel's life in the book of Daniel.
"Daniel's uncompromising stance regarding dietary matters reminds us again of how we sometimes must relate to our leaders: at time we will have to refuse obedience if such compliance would violate God's will." page 102
"In all of our interaction with civil authority, we should strive, with God's help, to act from a foundation of unwavering excellence - spiritually, morally, and ethically." page 105
"Our duty is simply to live consistently, obeying the principles from Scripture we know to be true." page 106
You can read more about Daniel's life in the book of Daniel.
September 03, 2008
Chapter #6 - Supporting Our Leaders: How and Why
"There is a general bias against the truth and righteousness that genuine Christianity stands for, but we as believers should nevertheless live as godly citizens who support the civil authorities." page 86
"First of all, Christians need to periodically remind their leaders that civil responsibilities are given to the from the supervising hand of God." page 87
"From time to time as appropriate, we should respectfully remind our government authorities that God 'disciplines nations' (Psalm 94:10, NIV) and that some day 'He is coming to judge the earth.' (Psalm 98:9)." page 88
"Another reminder that proves we are truly supportive of our leaders is the one that affirms we will choose only those who are faithful to all their governing responsibilities." pages 88-89
MacArthur mentions four specific requirements God makes upon them (pages 89-90)
"First of all, Christians need to periodically remind their leaders that civil responsibilities are given to the from the supervising hand of God." page 87
"From time to time as appropriate, we should respectfully remind our government authorities that God 'disciplines nations' (Psalm 94:10, NIV) and that some day 'He is coming to judge the earth.' (Psalm 98:9)." page 88
"Another reminder that proves we are truly supportive of our leaders is the one that affirms we will choose only those who are faithful to all their governing responsibilities." pages 88-89
MacArthur mentions four specific requirements God makes upon them (pages 89-90)
- God requires humility
- God demands justice, mercy, and compassion
- God calls for enforcement of the law
- God opposes selfish oppression
"Officials ... should empathize with citizens' needs and extend kindness to them by actually relieving suffering and want." page 91
"When we give proper support to earthly government it demonstrates that we 'fear God' and trust Him no matter how difficult and discouraging it is to live in an ungodly society. It shows other that we reverence Him as the Sovereign who is working all things according to His perfect plan." page 94
September 01, 2008
Chapter #5 - Jesus' Lesson on Tax Exemptions
"If our Lord and Savior did not ignore or rebel against the tax laws of His day, neither can we flout our taxpaying duties today." page 70
"No matter how unfair or unjustified a particular tax is or seems to be, the son of God instructs His disciples (then and now) to pay it, even if the assessment is used wastefully, foolishly, and in other ways that do not honor God." page 74
"The point of Jesus' lesson is clear. All believers must obey the requirements of the tax system under which they live. And God is there to provide the means - perhaps not as dramatically as for Peter, but nevertheless just as faithfully - for us to fulfill those obligations." page 75
"Included in any testimony of model citizenship would certainly be faithful and consistent compliance with all the government's tax requirements." page 76
"By obeying all the laws we demonstrate a love for God, for our country, and for our fellow citizens." page 77
"No matter how unfair or unjustified a particular tax is or seems to be, the son of God instructs His disciples (then and now) to pay it, even if the assessment is used wastefully, foolishly, and in other ways that do not honor God." page 74
"The point of Jesus' lesson is clear. All believers must obey the requirements of the tax system under which they live. And God is there to provide the means - perhaps not as dramatically as for Peter, but nevertheless just as faithfully - for us to fulfill those obligations." page 75
"Included in any testimony of model citizenship would certainly be faithful and consistent compliance with all the government's tax requirements." page 76
"By obeying all the laws we demonstrate a love for God, for our country, and for our fellow citizens." page 77
August 28, 2008
Chapter #4 - Our Tax Obligation
"It is right for us to take advantage of legal deductions and other tax benefits, but we should never be looking for more ways to avoid paying taxes." page 53
"While many people view the governments of contemporary democracies as corrupt and unjust, by comparison the Roman government of the first century was pagan, despotic, and often ruthless." page 54
"Christ's statement here is an assertion that citizens of all eras have a God-ordained obligation to pay taxes to their government." page 61
"No matter what position they have attained, what administrative competence they bring to the task, or what personal character qualities they possess, officials who assess and collect taxes are 'God's ministers.'" page 62
Simply, we are to obey the authorities in charge, sure we can use whatever legal means to protest or remove those from office, but we are not to break the law (unless it violates God's law).
"Christians have both the moral and spiritual responsibility to pay taxes because that's what God requires of them." page 63
"All things belong to Him, but a certain amount of that wealth which He entrusts to each person must go to support the institutions of human government. That is in accord with the Lord's plan and decree and part of His perfect will for us." page 65
"While many people view the governments of contemporary democracies as corrupt and unjust, by comparison the Roman government of the first century was pagan, despotic, and often ruthless." page 54
"Christ's statement here is an assertion that citizens of all eras have a God-ordained obligation to pay taxes to their government." page 61
"No matter what position they have attained, what administrative competence they bring to the task, or what personal character qualities they possess, officials who assess and collect taxes are 'God's ministers.'" page 62
Simply, we are to obey the authorities in charge, sure we can use whatever legal means to protest or remove those from office, but we are not to break the law (unless it violates God's law).
"Christians have both the moral and spiritual responsibility to pay taxes because that's what God requires of them." page 63
"All things belong to Him, but a certain amount of that wealth which He entrusts to each person must go to support the institutions of human government. That is in accord with the Lord's plan and decree and part of His perfect will for us." page 65
August 25, 2008
Chapter #3 - The Biblical Purpose of Government
"Paul identifies three basic purposes for the existence and role of government: (1) it restrains evil, (2) it promotes good, and (3) it is empowered by God to punish wrongdoers and the disobedient." page 41
"Even unconverted government leaders intuitively know good from evil and thus realize that part of their governing responsibility is to punish evil behavior." page 43
"Even the poorest form of government is better than no government at all." page 43
"By looking out for you and protecting our legitimate rights and interests, any government official is 'God's minister' or servant on your behalf." page 44-45
"Government exists as an institution that God has ordained to punish evil lawbreakers." page 46
This includes the God ordained right for governments to utilize capital punishment. We have seen problems in nations where capital punishment is no longer used. Prisons become filled and are simply breading grounds for more criminal activity. As the prisons become filled prisoners are released early to make room for new prisoners. Unfortunately, the prisoners that are released usually commit another crime and end up back in prison.
"Thus, simply stated, the prison system as we know it is not a proper deterrent to or punishment for crime." page 49
"When the leaders of a nation fail to administer justice, they and their people fall under God's justice." page 49
"The United States and other supposedly sophisticated, technologically advanced societies have sanctioned abortion, which is nothing less than the murder of unborn children. Those who for nearly thirty years have encouraged this ghastly execution of the most defenseless and harmless of people created in God's image will not escape His eventual judgment." page 49-50
"Even unconverted government leaders intuitively know good from evil and thus realize that part of their governing responsibility is to punish evil behavior." page 43
"Even the poorest form of government is better than no government at all." page 43
"By looking out for you and protecting our legitimate rights and interests, any government official is 'God's minister' or servant on your behalf." page 44-45
"Government exists as an institution that God has ordained to punish evil lawbreakers." page 46
This includes the God ordained right for governments to utilize capital punishment. We have seen problems in nations where capital punishment is no longer used. Prisons become filled and are simply breading grounds for more criminal activity. As the prisons become filled prisoners are released early to make room for new prisoners. Unfortunately, the prisoners that are released usually commit another crime and end up back in prison.
"Thus, simply stated, the prison system as we know it is not a proper deterrent to or punishment for crime." page 49
"When the leaders of a nation fail to administer justice, they and their people fall under God's justice." page 49
"The United States and other supposedly sophisticated, technologically advanced societies have sanctioned abortion, which is nothing less than the murder of unborn children. Those who for nearly thirty years have encouraged this ghastly execution of the most defenseless and harmless of people created in God's image will not escape His eventual judgment." page 49-50
August 20, 2008
Chapter #2 - Our Responsibility to Authority
"Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities." (Romans 13:1)
"Christianity and good citizenship go hand in hand." This includes "a sincere honor and respect for all official authority." Because "government officials are God's agents for maintaining order and justice in society." page 20
"The Lord expects us to speak out against sin, injustice, immorality, and ungodliness with courage and diligence. But we must do so in a law-abiding manner, according to the civil laws that legislative bodies and governing officials have established for us." page 21
"We are to obey every civil authority, no matter how immoral, cruel, ungodly, or incompetent he or she might be. Any government is better than anarchy." page 21
There is of course one exception to this rule and that being if the laws made by people are in direct violation of God's Word. There are several Biblical accounts mentioned about this in the chapter.
"Likewise, our churches ought to obey ordinances and regulations concerning zoning, fire safety, structural standards, building permits, and every other law that does not conflict with Scripture." page 25
"There is no type of persecution that should cause us to revolt against the government. It should only cause us to patiently endure the trial and persevere in righteousness." page 26-27
All government is put in place by God. If we were to disobey the government we would be disobeying God and therefore be subject to punishment.
Any thoughts? Interested in getting your own copy of the book yet?
"Christianity and good citizenship go hand in hand." This includes "a sincere honor and respect for all official authority." Because "government officials are God's agents for maintaining order and justice in society." page 20
"The Lord expects us to speak out against sin, injustice, immorality, and ungodliness with courage and diligence. But we must do so in a law-abiding manner, according to the civil laws that legislative bodies and governing officials have established for us." page 21
"We are to obey every civil authority, no matter how immoral, cruel, ungodly, or incompetent he or she might be. Any government is better than anarchy." page 21
There is of course one exception to this rule and that being if the laws made by people are in direct violation of God's Word. There are several Biblical accounts mentioned about this in the chapter.
"Likewise, our churches ought to obey ordinances and regulations concerning zoning, fire safety, structural standards, building permits, and every other law that does not conflict with Scripture." page 25
"There is no type of persecution that should cause us to revolt against the government. It should only cause us to patiently endure the trial and persevere in righteousness." page 26-27
All government is put in place by God. If we were to disobey the government we would be disobeying God and therefore be subject to punishment.
Any thoughts? Interested in getting your own copy of the book yet?
August 18, 2008
Chapter #1 - Political Involvement: A Christian Perspective
Chapter #1 - Political Involvement: A Christian Perspective
"During the past twenty-five years, well-meaning Christians have founded a number of evangelical activist organizations and put millions of dollars into them in an illconceived effort to counteract the secular undermining of American culture." Page 5
What is the undermining of American culture? It is our legislators and judicial system that have sanctioned same-sex unions, abortions, criminals rights, and so on.
As Christians we know these types of activities are wrong. However, the problem with being against these types of activities politically is the fact that people (Christians) can turn against the people personally instead of just politically.
"Believers become antagonistic toward the very lost people God has called to love and reach with the gospel." Page 5
Thus, they hate the sin and the sinner.
"Over the past several centuries, people have mistakenly linked democracy and political freedom to Christianity." Page 6
"The United States was actually born out of a violation of New Testament principles, and any blessing that God has bestowed on America have come in spite of the disobedience by the Founding Fathers." Pages 6-7
"The ideal human government can ultimately do nothing to advance God's kingdom, and the worst, most despotic worldly government in the end cannot halt the power of the Holy Spirit or the spread of God's Word." Page 7
"A certain amount of healthy and balanced concern with current trends in government and the community is acceptable, as long as we realize that such interest is not vital to our spiritual growth, our righteous testimony, or the advancement of the kingdom of Christ. Above all, the believer's political involvement should never displace the priority of preaching and teaching the gospel." Page 8
"Christ did not come to promote some new social agenda or establish a new moral order." Page 11
The Apostle Paul tells us that we need to reject the ungodly ways of this world. We cannot compromise the truth of God's Word. We are to present the world with the gospel of Christ. Anything else that does not promote God's Kingdom should not be the focus of our life.
More to come with Chapter 2. Leave some comments if you want.
"During the past twenty-five years, well-meaning Christians have founded a number of evangelical activist organizations and put millions of dollars into them in an illconceived effort to counteract the secular undermining of American culture." Page 5
What is the undermining of American culture? It is our legislators and judicial system that have sanctioned same-sex unions, abortions, criminals rights, and so on.
As Christians we know these types of activities are wrong. However, the problem with being against these types of activities politically is the fact that people (Christians) can turn against the people personally instead of just politically.
"Believers become antagonistic toward the very lost people God has called to love and reach with the gospel." Page 5
Thus, they hate the sin and the sinner.
"Over the past several centuries, people have mistakenly linked democracy and political freedom to Christianity." Page 6
"The United States was actually born out of a violation of New Testament principles, and any blessing that God has bestowed on America have come in spite of the disobedience by the Founding Fathers." Pages 6-7
"The ideal human government can ultimately do nothing to advance God's kingdom, and the worst, most despotic worldly government in the end cannot halt the power of the Holy Spirit or the spread of God's Word." Page 7
"A certain amount of healthy and balanced concern with current trends in government and the community is acceptable, as long as we realize that such interest is not vital to our spiritual growth, our righteous testimony, or the advancement of the kingdom of Christ. Above all, the believer's political involvement should never displace the priority of preaching and teaching the gospel." Page 8
"Christ did not come to promote some new social agenda or establish a new moral order." Page 11
The Apostle Paul tells us that we need to reject the ungodly ways of this world. We cannot compromise the truth of God's Word. We are to present the world with the gospel of Christ. Anything else that does not promote God's Kingdom should not be the focus of our life.
More to come with Chapter 2. Leave some comments if you want.
August 10, 2008
Something Different
I started reading John MacArthur's book, Why Government Can't Save you.
As usual I planned to write a short review. However, after the first chapter I realized I would not be able to post a short review as it would turn into a very long review. So I will be reviewing the book chapter by chapter.
For the most part I will stick with quotes from the book, but some of my own thoughts will be thrown in as necessary.
Check back next week for a review of Chapter #1 - Political Involvement: A Christian Perspective.
As usual I planned to write a short review. However, after the first chapter I realized I would not be able to post a short review as it would turn into a very long review. So I will be reviewing the book chapter by chapter.
For the most part I will stick with quotes from the book, but some of my own thoughts will be thrown in as necessary.
Check back next week for a review of Chapter #1 - Political Involvement: A Christian Perspective.
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