Article 19. THE CHRISTIAN AND THE STATE
ARTICLE 19 THE CHRISTIAN AND THE STATE
We believe that the state is ordained of God to maintain law and order. We seek to obey the New Testament commands to render honor to the authorities, to pay our taxes, to obey all laws which do not conflict with the higher law of God, and to pray for our rulers. The church should also witness to the authorities of God’s redeeming love in Christ, and of His sovereignty over all men. In law enforcement the state does not and cannot operate on the nonresistant principles of Christ’s kingdom. Therefore, nonresistant Christians cannot undertake any service in the state or in society which would violate the principles of love and holiness as taught by Christ and His inspired apostles.
Acts 4:19; Acts 5:29; Romans 13:1-7; Ephesians 1:20-22; Ephesians 5:23; 1 Timothy 2:1-2. The Christian and the Kingdom of Christ
We believe that Christians are citizens of two kingdoms, yet are not to be a part of this world’s system. Jesus taught us to be servants in his eternal kingdom by preaching, teaching and obeying the gospel message. Since the kingdom of Christ is not of this world, the Christian should devote his time and energies to the eternal kingdom of Christ leaving the things of this earthly kingdom to others. Therefore, we should not be involved in the politics of this world, such as voting for political officers, or participating in jury duty, etc.