C.S. Lewis once
noted there are two opposite errors our race can fall into about devils.
We can disbelieve their existence, or we can have an excessive, unhealthy interest in them.
Something similar can be said about the errors Christians face when it comes to politics.
On the one hand, we can dismiss politics as an unspiritual, dirty business unworthy of our attention.
Or, we can allow politics to become all-consuming, and believe the fortunes of God's kingdom depend on whether our candidate gets elected.
Either one of these errors is easy to slip into.
So how do you avoid these two ditches?
A dominion mandate perspective ought to lead the way...
When God first gave His commission to rule and cultivate the earth, civil rulers weren't necessary.
But once sin entered the world, the need for those who
would assure justice arose.
What the Bible calls 'minister of justice' is a noble calling and those who serve in such a position are worthy of honor (Rom.13).
But we must remember... this position is just one among many in God's world.
And civil rulers are not gods, or miracle workers or saviors.
They are servants... charged to enforce God's standards of justice -- not to be confused with today's 'social justice' -- without partiality.
And, as the Apostle Paul says...
We are to pray for those in authority over us so "we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity" (1 Tim.2:2).
This instruction helps give the perspective on politics we need...
We shouldn't expect too much of politics...
... and if civil rulers overstep their bounds and seek to become gods rather than
ministers of justice, we should let them know.
Yet we shouldn't expect too little either...
... and if these servants aren't upholding God's standard of justice and promote wickedness, we should make them feel it.
Because in the end...
God's purpose for civil authorities is simple...
It's to insure true justice...
...so the rest of us can go about the business of fulfilling our own callings effectively and in peace.
Get Dominion,
