Day 303

Of the Civil Magistrate.

Chapter 24, Paragraph 2.

” It is lawful for Christians to Accept, and Execute the Office of a Magistrate, when called thereunto; in the management whereof, as they ought especially to maintain Justice and Peace,…”

Scripture Lookup

2 Samuel 23:3

Psalm 82:3,4

Reflection

Can you be a Christian and be involved in the government?

Many religious sects have answered that question with “No.” God’s kingdom is not of this world, they argue, so to be involved with something so occupied with the here and now is unseemly for a Christian. Government is corrupt, and Christians are to not associate with corruption. Anabaptists, from which groups like the Amish have descended, held to this position.

Such a view that rejects involvement in government fails to recognize that government is not in itself a bad thing. Upholding justice and maintaining peace are good works: “By me [Wisdom] kings reign, and rulers decree justice.” -Proverbs 8:13 God has established rulers over the people for their protection and for His glory. At times, those rulers may be Christians. While serving in the government may be fraught with many temptations and challenges, a Christian does not sin if that is her vocation.

Withdrawing from distasteful professions seems noble. Yet it is important to distinguish between those professions that are inherently sinful (like prostitution) and those who merely carry a bad reputation (like lawyers and used car salesmen). Politics can be a dirty business, but it doesn’t have to be. Christians are free to pursue vocations in the government.

Questions to Consider

• What are the hindrances to Christians serving in government, and how can they be overcome?