In the nuanced dance between faith and state, the Reformed tradition offers a rich tradition of thought on government, its divine institution, and its implications for Christian life. Government is good until it proves to have become a wicked monstrosity, especially if it is in opposition to its Lord. Let’s explore this perspective, weaving together scriptural insights with the wisdom of historical Reformed figures.
The Divine Blueprint for Governance
The Bible, particularly in Romans 13:1-7, lays a foundational principle that all authority is established by God. This scripture not only ordains government but also outlines its purpose: to punish wrongdoers and commend those who do right. This divine mandate for order and justice is not merely a suggestion but a reflection of God’s own governance over creation.
Rom 13:1 Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. 2 Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, 4 for he is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God’s wrath on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore one must be in subjection, not only to avoid God’s wrath but also for the sake of conscience. 6 For because of this you also pay taxes, for the authorities are ministers of God, attending to this very thing. 7 Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed.
John Calvin introduced the concept of two kingdoms, explaining, “There are two governments in man: one spiritual, by which the conscience is formed to piety and the service of God; the other civil, by which man is trained to the duties of humanity and citizenship” (Institutes of the Christian Religion). This doctrine posits that while the state maintains civil order, the church focuses on spiritual matters, ensuring a balance where each serves its divine purpose without overstepping bounds. Both answer to God. When one or both cease to do so, they become something to oppose for reform. Man ought never to work to rid themselves of government. Anarchy is always wicked.
Justice, Order, and Resistance
Government, from a Reformed perspective, is God’s instrument for justice, reflecting divine order. Yet, this isn’t a call for blind obedience. Historical figures like John Knox and Samuel Rutherford challenged the divine right of kings, advocating for resistance against tyranny. Knox’s bold stance against Mary, Queen of Scots, and Rutherford’s seminal work Lex, Rex (The Law is King) argue for a form of constitutionalism where law, not the monarch, holds sovereignty. Rutherford famously stated, “The power of the magistrate is not absolute, but limited by the law of God and the consent of the governed” (Lex, Rex).
The Church’s Role in Governance
Abraham Kuyper, another influential Reformed thinker, emphasized Christ’s sovereignty over all spheres of life, including government. His declaration, “There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all, does not cry: ‘Mine!’” (Sphere Sovereignty), underscores that while governments are instituted by God, they are not above divine law.
Engaging with Government: A Reformed Approach
So, how does a Reformed Christian engage with government? With a critical yet constructive spirit. We recognize government as necessary for societal order, yet we also hold it accountable to divine justice. If the government strays from that standard or substitutes another standard, it must be opposed and resisted by the Christian when it demands unlawful action. This perspective invites believers to be active participants in governance, advocating for policies that reflect God’s kingdom values of justice, peace, and righteousness.
The Westminster Confession of Faith, a cornerstone of Reformed doctrine, states, “God, the supreme Lord and King of all the world, hath ordained civil magistrates, to be, under Him, over the people, for His own glory, and the public good” (Westminster Confession of Faith, Chapter 23). This acknowledgment of government’s role under God’s sovereignty guides our engagement, encouraging us to work towards a society that mirrors divine order.
Conclusion: A Call to Balanced Engagement
In conclusion, the Reformed perspective on government is one of balance. It calls for submission to authority while advocating for justice and righteousness. It recognizes the divine institution of government yet challenges it to uphold divine law. For the Reformed Christian, engaging with government is not just about civic duty but about reflecting God’s kingdom on earth, ensuring that our earthly governance echoes the justice, peace, and order of heaven.
This perspective, rich with scriptural foundation and historical wisdom, invites us not just to participate in but to transform our societies, always under the guidance of divine sovereignty. Christians must embrace the reality that government is a gift of God and for our good, but we must not accept any and every form when it seeks to undermine the Creator who has given it with a purpose. That purpose is to remain always to serve the Giver of all Good Gifts.
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