Chapter 1
Should Christians be
involved in
government?
“If a government desires to be blessed
of its maker, it must be just.” p. 3
How can a government
be truly just?
Is government necessary?
What is anarchy?
What’s the problem with
anarchy?
Human depravity


Trinity
Man created in God’s image

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How does man declare God’s glory?
Creation Mandate: Genesis 1:28
Authority structure

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Doesn’t mean we are totally wicked.
Means every aspect of our being has been
twisted by our fall into sin.
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We proved through our sin that we are
incapable of governing ourselves.
One result of the Fall is the need for
government or some authority structure to rule
over us.
“If men were angels, no government
would be necessary.” –James Madison,
Federalist No. 51
 What
is the purpose of
government?
 1.
Reward the righteous.
 2. Punish unrighteousness.

1 Peter 2:13-17
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What is righteousness?
“Righteousness is conformity to a standard.”
The ultimate standard is the character of God.

Everyone must submit himself to the
governing authorities, for there is no authority
except that which god has established. The
authorities that exist have been established by
God. Consequently, he who rebels against the
authority is rebelling against what god has
instituted, and those who do so will bring
judgment on themselves…
 What
is submission?
 Who
are the governing
authorities?
 Why
is it important to obey
civil laws?
 Is
“rebellion” ever permitted?


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
Should Martin Luther have protested against
the Pope?
Should the American colonists have rebelled
against King George?
Should Ghandi have refused to buy salt from
the English?
Should Rosa Parks have refused to sit at the
back of the bus?

Seek government change through evangelism
and prayer.

Vote
Support candidates
Run for office

Be an informed participant in government.
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What is patriotism?
Is patriotism a good thing?

What is jingoism?

If a citizen believes that his country is engaged
in a war that is not just, should he protest?
Refuse to participate? Go along anyway?
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
Research a local elected official from Houston,
Pasadena, Deer Park, La Porte, Friendswood,
League City, etc.
Name, position, responsibilities?
You may wish to contact his/her office and tell
him/her you are going to be praying for
him/her and ask what he/she would like you
to pray for.