I know there are many Christians (maybe even a silent majority) to whom this question doesn't really apply. So don't take this as a generalization of Christians or their beliefs, or even an attack on those to whom this question does apply.That said, there are a few things about the Christian movement, especially in politics and legislation, that I can't quite wrap my head around. Basically my question is summed up in, "What good is enforced righteousness?"So I'll start with a few things that I understand to be presuppositions of the Christian faith:
1. The World in its current condition is wicked, filled with sin and sinners; without Christ, everyone in it is destined by nature to damnation.2. The only power in the world that is capable of saving a lost soul is none other than Christ himself.3. In order to be saved, one must make a conscious decision to follow Christ, to believe in the Gospel.
Of course, I realize there's more to it than just that, but can it be agreed that before any meaningful change in a person's life can take place, those three points must be believed? If so, then there are a few questions I have.In the realm of politics and the governing of a free State -- I understand that Christianity has certain moral requirements, and that the faith requires something more of believers than the World would require otherwise. Some things that take place in the world are therefore understandably uncomfortable for Christians. But there are Christians who seek to explicitly prohibit some behaviors through the government and through laws. I won't get into specifics because I want this to remain a discussion of the larger mindset of these Christians, not devolve into the same tired debate I'm sure most of you have already had (I know I have).My first question about that is, do you believe that by legislating and enforcing righteous behavior, you will produce a more righteous population? If so, doesn't that directly conflict with the idea that only a personal belief in and relationship with Christ can spring righteousness in a person's life?Secondly, does the teaching in the Bible, that the Kingdom of God is not an Earthly kingdom, not apply in this case? I'm not singling Christianity out here except for its own internal doctrines stating that government belongs on earth, and that your relationship with God is something altogether more sacred and on a higher plane.Third, is it even possible to enact legislation that enforces a Christian morality? Considering that the morality of the Christian faith comes from a personal relationship with Christ and study of the scriptures (and that can only be honestly attempted by someone who willfully chooses to do it, despite the temptations of the world), one would assume that Christianity is limited to those who profess it and believe it; that it can be exported and offered to -- but not enforced on -- those who don't believe.Fourth: It would seem therefore that any law that restricts or outlaws "sin" solely on moral grounds circumvents the pivotal role that Free Will must play in true morality, and therefore actually weakens the Christian faith. What good is a life of virtue when there is no choice but virtue? Where is the honesty in chastity when to be unchaste is punishable by law? Why should I commend someone for adhering to a lofty moral regimen when that morality has been reduced to such a degree that it is the defacto state for most people -- not an exception, but the rule? If a believer does all of this honestly and of his own volition, what is there to impress a nonbeliever who sees everyone doing it anyway?Thanks for reading all of this; I hope to hear back from someone soon!
