Two Extremes

Reference: Institutes of the Christian Religion, 4.20.1

When it comes to politics, John Calvin argues that Christians are at risk of gravitating to one of two extremes.  He claims that his theological reflection on civil government is necessary because

“… on the one hand, frantic and barbarous men are furiously endeavouring to overturn the order established by God, and, on the other, the flatterers of princes, extolling their power without measure, hesitate not to oppose it to the government of God.”

In other words, we either assume that human government is inherently at odds with God’s will and therefore dismiss it; or we assume that a particular government is so aligned with God’s will that we can't see the ways the two may be at odds. 

Calvin points out the folly of Christians who believe that their primary loyalty to Christ excuses them from obligation to civil law.  Here Calvin echoes the Apostle Peter, who says,

Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor. (1 Peter 2:16-17)

Calvin argues that a societal rule of law is essential to human life:

“But we shall have a fitter opportunity of speaking of the use of civil government. All we wish to be understood at present is, that it is perfect barbarism to think of exterminating it, its use among men being not less than that of bread and water, light and air, while its dignity is much more excellent.”

His point is that in a broken world in which people are naturally inclined toward disorder and self-interest, God ordains and blesses the implementation of structures that impose order.  Calvin goes so far as to say “that they [civil magistrates] are invested with divine authority”.  This is consistent with what Peter says in 1 Peter 2:13-25, as well as the words of Psalm 82, quoted by Jesus in John 10:34-35.  The basic gist of this scriptural argument is that all authority in heaven and earth belongs to God; therefore any authority wielded by a person is authority that God has, for the time, granted.

That does not mean that everyone who wields authority does it in a way that honors God.  Calvin cautions Christians never to mistake an earthly kingdom for the Kingdom of God:

“…it matters not what your condition is among men, nor under what laws you live, since in them the kingdom of Christ does not at all consist.” 

His words are intended as a comfort to those living under a government or culture that challenges the Christian faith.  They are also intended as a warning to those who believe their government will usher in the Kingdom of God.  This is a very important caution to Christians within our culture who believe that a particular political party will better serve the cause of the church.  Parties may endorse values such as moral restraint or social justice which are consistent with the Kingdom, but at the same time champion personal greed or the use of oppressive force to achieve its ends, which are at odds with the Kingdom.  Calvin says, simply, no human kingdom is or ever will be the Kingdom of God.  Don’t place hopes and expectations on your government that rightfully belong to God.