CHURCH AND STATE-- SAME TEAM, DIFFERENT ROLES

God has given governments the power of the sword (force) but not the power of the keys (faith). God has given Church the power of the keys (faith) but not the power of the sword (force). This world is a better place when the two work separately, but cooperatively.

Notes And Next Steps

Matthew 22:15-22 + Part 3 of the series “Politics Is Driving Me Crazy!"

God has given the power of the sword to government.

Rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities. (Romans 13:4,5)

God has given the power of the keys to Christians.

“I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 16:19) … “If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven” (John 20:23).

“Hypocrites” … “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” (Matthew 22:18,21).

Jesus trusted in his Father’s authority over all government.

Jesus loved you enough to restrain his powers and die for you.

 

CROSSTALK

      1. SOLVE THIS PROBLEM: We thank God for our veterans this coming week. Imagine a veteran who has served in bloody battles and ended the lives of others. His conscience burdens him. How does the biblical teaching of separation of church and state help him handle those memories in a healthy way?
      2. MAKE-A-LIST: Give some examples of the state doing its job well, so that it benefits the church. And the church doing its job well, so that it benefits the state.
      3. LEARN FROM JESUS: Why was Jesus’ answer the perfect answer that escaped the trap?