Christians and the Sphere of the State

Hugh Hewitt recently interviewed theologian J.P. Moreland on the evangelical understanding (or lack there of) of being a responsible Christian citizen in our democratic republic.

Moreland, who has written extensively on Christian truth in the public square, had this to say:

"Being involved in politics is not unchristian. In fact, it’s a part of our calling as Christians. Why? Because we are supposed to do good to all people including the household of faith. And to do good to all people means establishing just laws and a just and a stable social order. And that’s the job of the state. It’s political. So the first thing a pastor should do and the Church should do is to enlist people like the dickens to be involved in the political process and vote. It is unconscionable that we have these rights, and that we have an obligation as disciples of Jesus to try to bring goodness and truth to society, that we don’t use all means available to promote just laws and a just and stable social order through the political process. And so voting is absolutely critical."

In addition to encouraging civic participation through voting, Moreland also advised Christian leaders to teach on four topics, drawn out from scripture:
1) The culture of life
2) A minimal view of government, understanding the difference between negative rights and positive rights
3) Promotion of government that maintains control over crime
4) Equipping the local church and other charities to be the willing providers of aid to the poor and needy, instead of the coercive machinery of the state


This conversation is sorely needed within the church; the whole transcript is worth reading and can be found here.