Articles that influenced this posting, please read before continuing:
http://www.firstthings.com/web-exclu...a-time-to-rend
http://theweek.com/article/index/272...lling-it-quits
The short version of the argument is when a minister solemnizes a marriage, he is acting as an agent of the state and because of the redefinition of marriage by the state, the minister should stop invoking the states power as part of the marriage. A couple can still get a religious service but to make the union civilly legal, they have to go elsewhere.
I think the articles are essentially correct. I think Christian need to rethink if they act as an agent of the government. We may also need to rethink the benefits of government. Is the tax exemption for clergy valid or does it makes one beholden to the government? I have one pastor friend who would give the tax break up in minute if keeping it restricted how he proclaims the Gospel.
I am recognizing (while not fully comprehending the impact) that once society generally endorsed conservative Christian values even if in application society was a little lax. Now that endorsement is being withdrawn. We are now watching the pendulum swing towards condemnation of those who hold conservative Christian values.
Is it time to rend the connection between Christian participation and government?
Is there a chance that being a participant in the government will make a difference?
To be clear, I view voting as acceptable and even a requirement for Christians (render unto Caesar). The question is can a Christian be an employee or agent of the government.
http://www.firstthings.com/web-exclu...a-time-to-rend
http://theweek.com/article/index/272...lling-it-quits
The short version of the argument is when a minister solemnizes a marriage, he is acting as an agent of the state and because of the redefinition of marriage by the state, the minister should stop invoking the states power as part of the marriage. A couple can still get a religious service but to make the union civilly legal, they have to go elsewhere.
I think the articles are essentially correct. I think Christian need to rethink if they act as an agent of the government. We may also need to rethink the benefits of government. Is the tax exemption for clergy valid or does it makes one beholden to the government? I have one pastor friend who would give the tax break up in minute if keeping it restricted how he proclaims the Gospel.
I am recognizing (while not fully comprehending the impact) that once society generally endorsed conservative Christian values even if in application society was a little lax. Now that endorsement is being withdrawn. We are now watching the pendulum swing towards condemnation of those who hold conservative Christian values.
Is it time to rend the connection between Christian participation and government?
Is there a chance that being a participant in the government will make a difference?
To be clear, I view voting as acceptable and even a requirement for Christians (render unto Caesar). The question is can a Christian be an employee or agent of the government.
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