The claim that Jesus Christ rejects all manmade governments and only approves of His divine rule demands careful examination. Such assertions, though well-meaning, often overlook the theological and historical contexts provided by scripture, prophetic teachings, and the principles of the restored gospel. Let us delve into why this claim is not consistent with Christ’s teachings or the doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
1. Scriptural Support for Participating in Manmade Governments
While Jesus Christ is indeed King and His ultimate authority is undeniable, the scriptures demonstrate that He acknowledged the role of earthly governments. Consider the following examples:
Matthew 22:21: Jesus said, "Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's."
This statement clearly shows that Jesus recognized the coexistence of divine authority and human governance. Earthly governments and divine authority serve different purposes, and Christ did not call for the rejection of human systems outright. Instead, He urged His followers to fulfill their responsibilities within both realms.Romans 13:1-7: The Apostle Paul taught, "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."
Paul’s message refutes the notion that all manmade governments are illegitimate. Instead, he explains that human governments can serve as instruments of God’s will, maintaining order and justice in society.
2. The Doctrine of Agency
Central to the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the principle of agency. God’s plan is built on the ability of His children to make choices, and manmade governments—particularly democratic or republican forms—allow for the collective exercise of agency. The founding principles of such governments, including liberty, accountability, and the rule of law, are deeply compatible with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Doctrine and Covenants 101:77-80:
The Lord declared that the U.S. Constitution was inspired by Him to establish principles of freedom: "I established the Constitution of this land, by the hands of wise men whom I raised up unto this very purpose."
This revelation directly counters the claim that democratic or republican governments are affronts to Christ. Rather, they are divinely inspired frameworks designed to protect God-given rights and promote individual liberty.
3. Contextualizing John Taylor's "The Government of God"
John Taylor, the third president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, emphasized the eventual establishment of God’s Kingdom on earth in his book The Government of God. However, Taylor did not advocate for the wholesale rejection of existing governments during the interim period before Christ’s Second Coming. Instead, he recognized that manmade governments serve a purpose until God’s Kingdom is fully established.
Taylor acknowledged that manmade governments are imperfect but necessary to maintain societal order. He foresaw that the Kingdom of God would grow and develop alongside earthly governments until Christ’s return.
The "government of God" that Taylor refers to is not an immediate overthrow of all earthly systems but rather the ultimate establishment of divine governance when Jesus Christ reigns personally during the Millennium.
4. The Church’s Approach to Civic Engagement
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints actively encourages its members to engage in civic duties. Voting, running for office, and sustaining constitutional principles are seen as essential ways to participate in God’s plan. The First Presidency has repeatedly issued statements urging members to support and sustain their local governments:
From a 2019 letter: "We urge Latter-day Saints to be active citizens by registering, exercising their right to vote, and engaging in civic affairs."
This demonstrates that the Church views earthly governments as having a legitimate role in God’s plan, even if they are imperfect.
5. Historical Precedents
Throughout history, God has worked through imperfect systems and leaders to accomplish His purposes. Examples abound in scripture:
Joseph in Egypt: Joseph served in Pharaoh’s government and used his position to save countless lives during a famine (Genesis 41).
Daniel in Babylon: Daniel faithfully served within Babylon’s governmental system while remaining true to God’s commandments (Daniel 6).
The Nephite System of Judges: King Mosiah established a democratic-republican form of governance among the Nephites to ensure accountability and righteousness (Mosiah 29).
These examples demonstrate that God’s purposes can be fulfilled even through human governments.
Conclusion
While Jesus Christ’s ultimate authority as King is undeniable, there is no scriptural or doctrinal basis to claim that He rejects all manmade governments outright. Earthly governments, though imperfect, are tools that can uphold divine principles and allow God’s children to exercise their agency. The teachings of John Taylor, coupled with revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants, reinforce the idea that righteous governments can coexist with God’s ultimate plan, preparing the world for the eventual establishment of His divine Kingdom.
The gospel of Jesus Christ does not call for the rejection of all earthly systems but instead teaches us to work within them to promote righteousness, freedom, and divine principles. As members of the Church, we are called to engage with the world, build up our communities, and prepare for the day when Christ Himself will reign as King of Kings.
No comments:
Post a Comment