Social organization is an inherent aspect of human nature, but the fallen nature of humanity may require the use of coercion or constraints in social structures to prevent harm and maintain order, as exemplified by the biblical flood story.
Fact #1: Civil Government is Necessary
According to Culver's perspective, humans would naturally develop some form of social organization even without the Fall. However, such organization would operate without coercion if humanity remained unfallen. Since humans are inherently social beings created for community life, some form of organization is essential for thriving.
The situation changes with fallen humanity. Sinful inclinations among community members necessitate a different organizational structure involving constraints or coercion. As Culver states:
« If sin's violence to man cannot be kept in check by voluntary control, then God in His grace would control it by coercive means. »
The article emphasizes that civil government cannot achieve social perfection. Culver argues that humans are "non-perfectible, either individually or collectively," meaning governments led by fallen humans cannot establish societies where justice and righteousness universally govern all decisions. Nevertheless, civil government serves as God's instrument to preserve human life and create conditions where redemptive work can occur.
Fact #2: Justice is the Basis of an Effective Civil Government
Effectiveness varies among civil governments. Two conditions enhance effectiveness:
First: Officials must recognize civil government's divine origin. Culver explains: "God alone is sovereign but has delegated the power of civil government to magistrates." This principle appears in Romans 13:1: "For there is no power but of God; and the powers that be are ordained of God."
Second: Civil government requires a moral foundation for its decisions and actions. Culver grounds this in religious understanding — specifically, recognizing humans as bearers of God's image. Denying this foundational principle leads to totalitarian regimes.
The author acknowledges the difficulty in securing secular leaders' acknowledgment of ultimate divine accountability. Therefore, structural safeguards including division of powers and checks-and-balances become absolutely necessary. Culver asserts:
« Every social order rests on a creed, on a concept of life and law, and represents a religion in action. »
The author finds it significant that despite efforts to suppress truth, virtually all human efforts toward justice function as faith statements. Culver emphasizes: "The concept of justice, rooted in God's person, to which all men are responsible and by which they are judged, is a religious one."
Fact #3: Christian Duty Toward Civil Government is that of Obedience, not of Rebellion
Jesus and his apostles consistently emphasized obedience to authorities — God, kings, governors, and parents — regardless of their justice or injustice. Culver notes: "He makes plain that one ought to live in the civil commonwealth in such a manner as to support peace and public order."
The article highlights the remarkable context in which disciples wrote about civil responsibility. They faced genuine persecution under pagan and Jewish authorities, yet they maintained this teaching. Culver, citing Phillip Schaff, observes:
« The attitude of Christ, His apostles, and His church, down to the time of Constantine, toward the civil government is truly sublime. They recognized it an ordinance of God, despite its degeneracy… even though they were persecuted by it with fire and sword. »— Culver, citant Phillip Schaff
The disciples wrote about overcoming evil with good despite circumstances that might justify rebellion. Except when government orders contradict God's law, obedience remains a Christian virtue.
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