Tim Maas Retired Quality Assurance Specialist with the U.S. Army

I would say that Christians should do all that is within their power (both individually and corporately with others who share their views) to address corruption in government through the exercise of their lawful rights and freedoms (such as voting and freedom of expression) with respect to changing that government to address its corrupt practices.

In cases of irreconcilable conflict, Christians must obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29). However, Christians should also seek to obey the law to the greatest extent possible, and to refrain from any type of violence.

Ultimately, Christians are not citizens of any earthly realm, but of God's kingdom. But they must also be prepared to bear the temporal consequences of any actions taken in opposition to earthly governments.

September 04 2020 • 1 response • Vote Up • Share • Report

Grant Abbott Child of Father, Follower of Son, Student of Spirit

I think the book of Daniel provides a great example for us to follow.

Daniel and his 3 friends were taken to Babylon to be trained in the culture and language and then enter the king’s service (work for the government).

Their faith in God was tested in many ways by this corrupt government. They were ordered to eat meat that was sacrificed to idols. They were ordered to worship a statue of the king. They were ordered not to pray to other Gods.

But these men refused to compromise their faith. God was pleased to give them incredible wisdom to oversee the king’s affairs. Daniel was given the ability to interpret dreams and became a confidant of the king.

But they were still persecuted for their faith. Daniel was thrown in a lion’s den but saved by an angel. His 3 friends were thrown in a blast furnace but saved by an angel again. The other government leaders tried to find evidence of corruption in their work to discredit them, but they could find nothing. They rose to become the senior administrators in the king’s government. Their faithful witness led to King Nebuchednezer finally coming to believe the Lord God Almighty, and he ordered all his subjects to worship God alone.

Daniel prayed to God 3 times a day. I am convinced that Daniel would have prayed for justice, righteousness, love and faithfulness (the foundation of God’s throne) to be present in their lives and in the Babylonian kingdom. 

Through prayer and our personal integrity and faithfulness, Christians have changed corrupt governments into just and righteous ones in the past, and can do so again in our present times.

September 06 2020 • 1 response • Vote Up • Share • Report