What does the Lord say about Government? It was the Lord who instituted the government, the church and the family. What does the Bible teach about government?
I. The purpose of Government is not to meet our needs.
It does not exist to assure us of health care, welfare, social security, medicare, medicaid, etc. That is the job of the family, not government. 1 Timothy 5:8 says, "But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel." 2 Thessalonians 3:10, "For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat."
Government has been intruding into family business for 30-40 years, creating a generation of Americans dependent on government rather than on each other. We have become addicted to government. What happens when the government runs out of money? Like now? Learn to take care of yourself and your loved ones.
II. The purpose of Government is not to take care of older people.
1 Timothy 5:4 says, "But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God." We need to strengthen our families again and teach our children and grandchildren to care for their elders. If parents care for children for 21 years while they are growing up, certainly children owe them that many years at the end of their lives. What ever happened to common sense?
III. The purpose of Government is to punish evil doers.
1 Peter 2:13-14 states, "Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well."
Romans 13:1-7, "Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour."
Good rulers are a terror to crime and criminals.
IV. The Purpose of Government is to praise and reward good people.
The above scriptures spell this out also.
Conclusion:
Consider these principles when voting next. Choose candidates you feel will uphold these Biblical truths of government.
More government means less freedom. Less government means more freedom.
