Separation of Church and State
Church and State are two separate institutions according to the Word of God. The Church of Jesus
Christ consists of those individuals who have been called out of the world (lost humanity) and made
citizens of a Heavenly Kingdom. The principle of separation of Church and State is taught in the
New Testament. Romans 13 informs us that the State is of divine origin; and Matthew 16 tells us
that the church is likewise of divine origin, but both are to serve in separate capacities.
Law and order that are in harmony with God's moral law must be maintained. This is the duty of the
State. The church, on the other hand, provides an means of fellowship for the saint and an effective
outreach in the proclamation of the Gospel.
As individual Christian citizens, we are to pay taxes that are due to governmental powers. We are
also instructed to respect our leaders and to pray for them (1). As believers, we should do all in our
power to keep our society free, that we might have liberty to worship and serve our Savior.
(1) Romans 13:7