Church and State, by Roy Mohon, published by the James Begg Society, booklet, 23 pages, obtainable from the Free Presbyterian Bookroom.
This booklet provides, on the basis of the doctrine of The Westminster Confession of Faith, a brief discussion of the relationship between Church and state. Both, the writer says, were instituted by God and both are to be regulated by the will of God. He quotes James Bannerman: “For the civil ruler to pass beyond the line that divides [Church and state], to trespass within the dominion of Christ, to assume jurisdiction there . . . is plainly to touch very nearly the honour of Christ’s crown”. Yet, says the author, “it is evident that neither can function completely in disregard of one another”. Finally in this section, Mr Mohon emphasises that both Church and state are to be ruled in righteousness; he refers to a number of Scripture passages to show the necessity for righteousness in trying those charged with an offence.
He goes on to emphasise the duty of prayer for civil rulers, and likewise the duty of obedience. Yet both the Church and the Christian may rebuke rulers, for personal and legislative wrongs. The final section deals with the scriptural evidence for the time when the nations will submit to the authority of Christ.
A useful introduction to an important subject.
Return to Table of Contents for The Free Presbyterian Magazine – May 2002