The bible is filled with principles that help us understand what the proper role of government should be. Mike dives into some of the many principles that he has discovered during his biblical research. He starts with the nature of man, comparing the world view of Plato to the Apostle Paul.

He then goes on to talk about the nature of government, decentralization of power, god-ordained institutions, personal property, and submission and rebellion to authority. This lecture was given on July 18th, 2011 as part of an IPS Government and Economics Conference hosted in Modesto, California for Christian educators.

You'll Learn:

• [01:35] The first scriptural principle that impacts government is the nature of man.
• [03:17] Plato's Republic is his explanation of utopia. A republic is broadly referred to as a system of government.
• [06:14] Plato begins with an assumption that is opposite of the Judeo Christian doctrine.
• [09:01] The biblical model says that man is corruptible. Power tends to corrupt.
• [10:05] Decentralize power, because you can't trust mankind.
• [10:55] The strategy of God versus the strategy of Satan.
• [16:38] We are seeing a centralization of power. This is Satan's agenda.
• [17:30] 2. The nature of government. The three god-ordained governmental institutions are family government, church government, and civil government.
• [19:52] Each form of government is given tools of discipline including the rod, excommunication, and the sword.
• [22:03] The biblical model of the civil government is force. The potential for abuse is far greater.
• [23:53] 3. Decentralization of power. 1st Samuel chapter 8. No tax should be above the 10% tithe.
• [33:48] 4. The three god-ordained institutions of family government, church government, and civil government.
• [34:08] 5. The importance of property. God is a god of private property. The Ten Commandments assume private property ownership.
• [38:03] Some people interpret Acts 5 of the New Testament to endorse socialism. There's a difference between voluntary charity and property being taken by force.
• [42:18] 6. Proper submission and rebellion to authority. Romans chapter 13 and 1st Peter chapter 2.
• [43:23] All authority comes from God. Ruling authorities rule as God's servants.
• [48:30] The difference between the French Revolution and the American Revolution.
• [49:09] 7. Specific rules and guidelines that the government should do.

Your Resources:

• Books to browse
• Five Principles By Michael Winther
• The Republic
• Establishments and Limits of Civil Government
• Vindiciae Contra Tyrannos: A Defense of Liberty Against Tyrants