Q: With the rise of international terrorism, there has been much debate about the proper balance between individual freedom and a government’s right to infringe on some freedoms through surveillance and other heightened security precautions. What is a biblical approach to this tension between the right to freedom and the need for security?
A: In the Bible, freedom is a big deal. So is the role of government to protect its citizens. The question is balancing the two without leaning too far in one direction or the other. International terrorism and even cyberterrorism have raised the ante on this question. Government shouldn’t infringe just because it wants to, but should do so because it has direct bearing on the protection of the people. If that line is crossed, the rulers have interfered with freedom.
Q: One of the ways that government overreaches its God-ordained boundaries is through over- taxation. What does the Bible have to say on the issue of taxation, and what would be a just, kingdom approach to taxation?
A: Jesus said, “Render unto Caesar that which is Caesar’s,” and He was holding money in his hand when He said it. God says, “Pay your taxes for the benefit that civil government brings to you.” In 1 Samuel 8, He says, “Watch out for big government because if you allow government to get too big, it will overtax you.” He believes in low taxes, limited regulation and high productivity. If the church had done its job, we wouldn’t need high taxation to support a behemoth like welfare, because the church and places like it would be the charitable institutions in every community throughout the nation.
Q: The foundation for a kingdom approach to education is for parents to take responsibility for the total education for their children. What are some practical tips from your own experience in raising four kids for how parents can take this responsibility seriously?
A: First and foremost, parents have to be involved. Don’t just depend on the reputation of the school or what you hear from one teacher. Find out what’s going on. Ask questions. Investigate. Look at your options; is the public school the best option, or should you consider a private or charter school? Consider the quality of education and the capabilities of those teaching there.
Another thing we can do as parents is, whatever your kids are learning, bring God’s view into the subject matter. You may not always know about the sciences or history, but you can bring a spiritual perspective to the table as they learn.
Why We Do What We Do
"I write to you from West Virginia, about 16 hours away by car. I'm a retired firefighter from a city here in WV. I send my sincere thank you and encouragement to all of you. Your dedication to the ministries that flow out from your support has made a difference in my life. So many times when I needed it the most, I was able to listen to God's Word preached to me by your minister, Dr. Tony Evans. The message always seems to meet my need. I didn't know I needed it until I heard the message. That's amazing to me. God knows what I need, while most of the time, the things I thought I needed were just wants. I was seeing things wrong in so many ways, and these messages cleared up my vision by making me see through spiritual eyes dedicated to the Lord Jesus. I love listening between church services. I wanted to let you all know that all of you are appreciated so much and loved. Don't give up, Church!"
—Forrest
