Revive - Vol 08 | Issue 1 & 2 | January-February 2015

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REVIVE (ENGLISH)

january / february 2015

Date of Publication : 01/01/2015

INDIA BIBLE COLLEGE & SEMINARY

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Vol. 08, Issue No. 1 & 2

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church and state revive wishes you a Christ-filled 2015

Dear Friend, Brutal, tyrannical, extravagant, persecutor, murderer, cruel, opportunistic…

These are just a few of the words that describe the Roman emperor, Nero. Roman historian, Suetonius, said that Nero “showed neither discrimination nor moderation in putting to death whomsoever he pleased.” He killed his own mother and other relatives, and kicked his pregnant lover to death.

The India Pentecostal Church of God UK - Ireland Region

7th ANNUAL CONVENTION th st (30 May - 1 June, 2014)

Still, Paul urges Timothy to offer “entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings…on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.”

The Bible was written by people who lived in times when the government was not friendly to the people of God. Yet Jesus says to “render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s.”

Paul had a clear sense of God’s sovereignty over both church and state. He did not regard God as part of one realm and human institutions as part of another. All rulers, he said, are in power because God ordained them.

In spite of the horrible tyranny of Roman emperors (Nero put Paul and many other Christians to death), the general peace made it possible for the gospel to spread rapidly through the Empire. The very regime so fiercely devoted to emperor worship became the catalyst for the proclamation of the gospel. A wicked government may have twisted aims, but God uses its dysfunctional rulers to accomplish His higher purposes.

Why does God appoint rulers like Nero, Herod, Pontius Pilate and Hitler to serve as rulers? We cannot know the full mind of God on these matters, but we can say this:

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God has the long term in mind; though the short term looks bad to us, it always serves His larger purpose and works for ultimate good.

Rev. Dr. T. Valson Abraham preaching at the 2014 IPC UK-Ireland Annual Convention in Derby, UK

• God’s ultimate aim is to complete the Great Commission and glorify Himself.

• God uses rulers to discipline His people and bring them out of complacency and ingratitude to depend upon Him.

• God demonstrates through wicked rulers that He is not limited by human wickedness in accomplishing His greater good.

• Bad rulers have a way of deepening our faith in God so that we call upon Him to work in marvelous ways.

• Bad rulers move us to pray better prayers, develop more godly voting standards, and seek more godly ways of

Pastor C. T. Abraham - secretary of the region, conducting the Communion service

persuasion and action to influence political leaders.

Whenever we fail to pray for our leaders, regardless of their political persuasion, we sin against God. Evangelist Billy Graham has met privately with all kinds of political leaders. He says, “We sometimes forget that some of the loneliest people in the world are those who are constantly in the public eye. They have spiritual needs just like everyone else. I have found many world leaders who sense that our problems today are so complex as to defy [human] solution. They know that the only answer is to be found in God.” We often forget that the halls of government are also mission fields for the gospel.

We have had many opportunities to befriend numerous political leaders- not all of them Christian- who regularly come asking prayer for help with the deep burdens they carry.

Both church and state are God’s avenues to do His will. Let our prayers for our leaders come out of the abundance of our certainty in God and our own daily dialogue with Him so that we might prepare the way for completion of the Great Commission.

Blessings to you for the New Year, Rev. Dr. T. Valson Abraham Believers engaged in worship

Pastor Philip P. Thomas - secretary of IPC Kerala State

Pastor Jacob George - president of the UK-Ireland Region

contents

revive

www.revivemegod.org

renewing and enriching life Vol.08, Issue No.1 & 2 January / February 2015

A magazine that will enrich and renew your Spiritual life and give Christian perspective on current events.

CHAIRMAN PASTOR T. S. ABRAHAM VICE-CHAIRMAN PASTOR Dr.T. VALSON ABRAHAM MEMBERS BRO. JACOB THOMAS BRO. SUNNY KODUMTHARA EDITOR PASTOR DR. JOHN K. MATHEW ADMINISTRATIVE EDITOR PASTOR SAJU JOSEPH ASSOCIATE EDITOR MRS. STARLA LUKOSE MANAGER PASTOR T.J. ABRAHAM CONTRIBUTING WRITERS JUNE THOMAS ANN ABRAHAM PUBLISHER, PRINTER & OWNER MAJOR V. I. LUKOSE (Retired) HEBRON, KUMBANAD, PATHANAMTHITTA, KERALA. PRINTED AT VIANI PRINTINGS, LISSIE JN., ERNAKULAM, KERALA PLACE OF PUBLICATION KUMBANAD, PATHANAMTHITTA, KERALA - 689 547 DESIGN Beam Design S2dio Ph: 0481-2563554 beamfine@gmail.com

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Editorial

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Israel: A ‘Covenant Community’ amidst Political Aspirations

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THE CHURCH AND STATE IN THE APOSTOLIC PERIOD OF CHRISTIANITY

Pastor Dr. John K. Mathew

Pastor Phinni Joseph

Rev. Dr. Jose Livingston

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CHURCH AND THE POLITICAL STATE

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Christianity Under Imperial Favour and its Impacts

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POLITICS AND CHURCH

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Christian, Church and India

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news

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Pastor P. J. Daniel

Pastor Binoy Eapen Philip

P. Abraham

Dr. J. N. Manokaran

Quiz

The views and ideas expressed in each article are those of the writer.

- Editor Pictures Courtesy : Google

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Letters

Freedom is a Gift Dear Editor, It is made clear in the article of Dr. C. T. Luisukutty that while some religions promise spiritual freedom as a result of many years of hard work or after many cycles of life, in Christian faith spiritual freedom is a free gift of God given to everyone who believes in Jesus Christ. All that is required of man is to believe in Jesus Christ. Thus the first step of spiritual freedom is to believe in Jesus Christ and receive Him as one's Savior and Lord. As a result of this initial step the Holy Spirit takes residence in him and the Bible says, “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty" (2 Corinthians 3:18). This is spiritual freedom.

Raju Thomas, Chennai

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No License to do Anything Dear revive, I appreciate the December issue of revive magazine for its very exhaustive study on Christian freedom. I was very specially impressed by Mr. P. Abraham’s article. Some of the points he delineated are very true in today’s context. As we are pilgrims and strangers in this world, some may think that we do not have to obey the rules of the human government; but Peter tells us that we have an even greater obligation to obey the laws of the land. Christians are citizens of a higher kingdom and have a higher obligation. They should listen to God rather than men, when allegiance to the earthly rulers calls upon them to violate their consciences and standards of God's kingdom. The unsaved world watches the Christian; therefore, we must abstain from sins, by the power of the Spirit.

Our behavior must be honest, for this is the only way to silence their evil talk. A Christian is free, but his freedom is not license to do anything he wants. Let’s all have this balanced understanding of our freedom as Christians.

Jayan V.K, Kothamangalam

Don’t Change Foundation Dear Editor, Rev. Kris Jackson presents a very relevant issue as he uses the example of a fence. He begins with a question, “Is it possible to find a place of balance or moderation and still maintain moral integrity?” Then he quotes Dr. Warren Wiersbe, “Before taking down a fence, find out why it was put there to begin with”.

The ancient fences regarding reading materials, cinema, dating, dress, television, wining and dining and so on, were built for what were sound reasons at

the time. The forefathers sought to live close to the Lord, they didn’t want anything to threaten intimacy, so they built clearly defined fences or what would be more properly called “traditions”.

If any of the fences change with time, be sure, the foundation never changes. The way that leads to eternal life is still a narrow gate. Yes, let’s not change the very foundations or doctrines of the Word of God. George Mathew, Jabalpur

Freedom in Work Dear revive, Many people including Christians have not yet understood the real meaning of freedom. The December issue of revive makes it very clear through all the different articles. Pastor Saju Joseph points out freedom as it should be practiced in various aspects of life. For example, the freedom of work - if all the work that we do either in church or outside is done due to somebody else’s compulsion or to please some human being, it is a work in bondage. Every activity that we do as a church member, a Bible student, a minister in a church or in any institution, ought to be done as unto the Lord. If our prayer and other spiritual activities are controlled by a remote system with a set time-table and regulations then it becomes a work in bondage.

But if we do our work faithfully and sincerely, even if there is no warning bell or a supervisor, then it is a work in freedom. Let us enjoy freedom in its right sense even at our workplaces.

Raju Abraham, Abudhabi

Freedom vs.

Serfdom Dear Editor, Freedom is the gift of God. God created man with freedom to do

whatever for his or her permanent good. Greed is not freedom, it is serfdom. This led to man’s fall. This idea is brought out by MPK Kutty in your recent issue.

His insights were indeed very valuable. Man's original sin, as some say, is rebellion against God or wanting to do everything his own way. In short, man was seeking complete freedom. There are two freedoms - the false, where a man is free to do what he likes; the true, where he is free to do what he ought to God has a good plan for each of His creation and especially for each human individual. Whatever is not good for us is forbidden by God in His Word. To deny or prevent whatever is harmful for a child by its loving father or mother is not denying freedom for the child. The same is with human beings in the dealings of God. May The Holy Spirit help us to discern between freedom and serfdom.

Thomas Jacob, Florida

Right to Fundamental rights!

Dear revive, In the light of the present debate in India with regard to the religious conversion/reconversion more clarification is needed for a true meaning of religious freedom.

Sanjana Thomas in her article put forward a number of very relevant arguments in relation to the human rights issues people face today worldwide and in India specially.

Personal religious interests must not do any damage to others’ rights to the fundamental rights.

Christians must bear this in mind and witness by life more than by mere words. It is my prayer that God may enable all of us to adopt a very blessed and harmless method of persuasion to the love of God in Jesus by our life example.

Moni Jose, New Delhi

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Pastor Dr. John K. Mathew

The seventeenth century was a century of orthodoxy.

Both Protestants and Roman Catholics were concerned with dogmatic formulation of their positions for the purpose of catechizing their adherents. Although some of this orthodoxy stressed Christian experience, much of it emphasized right thinking. The drying up of the wellsprings of vitality in religion had started by the end of the seventeenth century.

If the seventeenth century was an age of orthodoxy the eighteenth was an age of rationalism. In part, rationalism was a reaction to or an outgrowth of cold orthodoxy. The rise of rationalism also resulted from the place given to philosophy in the universities.

During the middle ages, philosophy and theology had been wed in the system called 'scholasticism'; but with the decline of scholasticism and the church the two were divorced, with the result that philosophy became an enemy of theology.

Western philosophy was now free to discover answers to the big questions of life by means of human reason alone. From the same context rose a new social philosophy. John Locke is regarded as the father of this new philosophical thought. Locke taught that just as the universe was governed by natural law, so men as part of nature were guaranteed certain natural rights. His political philosophy was an important facet of the political theory of the eighteenth century and was written in to the American Declaration of Independence and the French Declaration of the Rights of Man. His religious views were significant too. In An Essay Concerning Toleration, The Reasonableness of Christianity, and in his Four Letters on Toleration he argued that no one could be saved by a religion that was forced upon them. Therefore, he called for religious toleration and the separation of church and state. Thus the concept of church and state separation is the product of Christian intelligence. The unfortunate part is that many other religions in the world have not yet conceived this idea or in other words it is indigestible to their intelligence.

But

whether or not governments support Christians, scripture exhorts Christians everywhere to pray for the governments under which they live.

The secular view of Christian countries guarantees a rapid growth for other religions.

In turn, in many countries of the world today, Christians are in the minority who struggle to live under unsympathetic or oppressive governments. Many countries in the world find pleasure in persecuting Christians and other minorities. The question is, is it a problem of religious intolerance or intelligence? But whether or not governments support Christians, scripture exhorts Christians everywhere to pray for the governments under which they live. january / february 2015

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Pastor Phinni Joseph Faculty, India Bible College & Seminary

The

real history of Israel begins with the redemption from Egypt.

When the people came to Mt. Sinai, the lord has given those Laws and regulations through the hand of Moses.

There were religious, ethical and social laws included in it.

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Israel: A ‘Covenant Community’ Amidst Political Aspirations Israel

is a nation related to Yahweh through a covenant. The descendants of Jacob came to be known as ‘the house of Israel ‘or the ‘house of Jacob’ in later years. Israel has a significant role in the eternal plan of God. They were chosen as a mediator for blessings. God has separated them from other nations around them. (Num. 23:9; Deut. 23:4-5). It was through the Call of Abraham that Israel took birth. (Gen. 12:1-2).

This promise was reaffirmed to Isaac and Jacob in the later years. We can understand that through the twelve sons of Jacob, the great nation Israel took shape.

The real history of Israel begins with the redemption from Egypt. When the people came to Mount Sinai, the Lord gave the Laws and regulations through the hand of Moses.

There were religious, ethical and social laws included in it. Though the people got freedom on the day when they came out of the land of Egypt, they became a sovereign nation only when they received the law at Mount Sinai.

They began to shape themselves as a nation under the reign of god, subjected to obey the divine commandments. The Sinai covenant was

established here. The covenant stipulations make clear the significant characteristics of the people of Israel: i) Israel is the treasured possession of God, ii) Royal priesthood iii) Holy nation. i) Israel as the Treasured Possession of God God has chosen the nation Israel as a treasured possession, though the whole world belongs to him. As a separated nation, they stand as God’s own people. They were entitled to this status by being obedient to the commandments of God. They were given the commission to be witness among other nations as the representative of God. ii) Israel as Royal Priesthood The duty of a priest is to stand in the gap between God and human so as to intercede for the people. So also the duty given to people of Israel was also that of an intercessor. What is expected here is to take up the priestly commission so that the other nations would get an access to the presence of god. More

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‘Holiness’ than a political commission, God has given a responsibility of divine intercession. God’s purpose was to bless all nations through the people of Israel. God’s intention about Israel was to take up the noble responsibility of Intercession for World humanity. iii) Holy Nation ‘Holiness’ is a significant theme in the Scriptures. It is not mere ritualistic 'do’s and don’ts' that holiness represents. Rather, a separation with a special purpose – therefore, separated things, instruments, individuals; communities cannot be used for ordinary purposes. Israel is separated unto God with a special purpose so that they cannot function as the gentile nations. They have to be under the reign of God and must be obedient and submissive to the statutes of God. Their lifestyle, religious rituals and practices, administration of the nation etc. should be in strict accordance with the Word of God. Only then are they entitled to the name ‘holy nation’.

Theocracy and Monarchy Israel easily broke away from their purposes and responsibilities, though they were created with a noble cause. They have changed from theocracy to monarchy. They were influenced by the neighboring nations to follow their pattern of governance. Extending the borders, subduing the enemy and equipping the military etc. have become their sole aim - as with the every king.

Hence, the scripture teaches us, the rule of kings in Israel was not pleasing to the Lord. They were exhausted by the political intrigues, luxurious life, worship of other gods and goddesses because they forgot their mission. We understand that

though they were called to be a light to the gentiles, they became worse than the gentiles.

Socio-Political and Religious Nexus The political and social life in Israel is closely integrated with the religious life of the people.

There were three major offices to regulate these various aspects of their existence. The political system was governed by the kings, religious system by the priests and the prophets served as the spokesmen of justice and correction in the society. When the king began to rule in Israel the socio-political- religious nexus was affected. The kings began to interfere in the duties of the priest and religious system. So the priests could not work freely and discharge their responsibilities.

This led to an unholy alliance with the political and religious leaders. The prophets of the 8th century testify that the princes and priests alike broke the commandments of the Lord. So, God raised up the prophets as corrective forces. When the people fell from the state of a ‘covenant community’ to a ‘political community’ ministry of prophets became an unavoidable necessity.

The prophets exhorted the people to walk in the ways of justice and holiness so as to obey the commandments of the Lord.

God’s purpose for the people of Israel was not to be ‘political entity’ under a king as the other gentile nations but to be a ‘covenant community’ under the chosen leaders given by the Lord. Only then would they become a special treasure for God, a royal priest and a holy nation.

Their mission was to be a witness for the Lord among the other nations, a light to the gentiles to declare the mighty acts of Yahweh to the coming generations.

is a significant theme in the Scriptures. It was not mere ritualistic 'do’s and don’ts' that holiness represents.

Rather, a separation with a special purpose. It’s just because of that reasons, separated things, instruments, individuals; communities cannot be used for ordinary purposes.

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Rev. Dr. Jose Livingston Assistant Professor in the Department of New Testament Studies at the New Theological College, Dehradun. He has completed his doctoral studies from the Senate of Serampore College. This article is a reflection drawn from his doctoral dissertation, “A Postcolonial Reading of the Acts of the Apostles.” Dr. Jose and his family have been serving the Lord in North India since 1996.

THE CHURCH AND STATE IN THE APOSTOLIC PERIOD OF CHRISTIANITY

The

Church was not considered to be a separate institution from Judaism till the last part of the first century. In the earliest part of the Christian history, the ordinary Galilean disciples were the core of the Church and the followers of Jesus were called as the ‘people of the way’

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Luke is

the main New Testament writer who gives a few details of the origin and growth of the church in the Greco-Roman Jewish world through the historical writing of his second volume called, Acts of the Apostles. In this account, he also explains the relationship of the church with the state during the Apostolic period. A superficial reading of this account gives an impression that the Christians were pro-Roman in their attitude towards the state (Ac. 13:7-8; 19:31,35-37) but Luke also gives a detailed description to the death, imprisonment, court scenes and trials of

the Apostles (Ac.12:1-19; 16:16-40; 19:23-41; 24-26).In this context, what does Paul’s arrest, trials, appeal to the state administration and his hopeful appearance before the Emperor Caesar mean? Moreover, what does the church relationship to the political state authority mean by then and now?

The Origin and Growth of the Church The Church was not considered to be a separate institution from Judaism till the last

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part of the first century. In the earliest part of the Christian history, the ordinary Galilean disciples were the core of the Church and the followers of Jesus were called as the ‘people of the way’ (Ac.9:2; 19:9, 23; 24:14). The Christian community did not have a strictly defined ‘established center’.

Further, they received their community identity as ‘Christians’ (Ac.11:26; 26:26), probably as a nick name in the context of suffering and persecution (cf.1Pet.4:16; Ant.18.3.64).

The early part of Acts portrays the expansion of the Christian community from Jerusalem to Judea-Samaria through the witnessing of the Apostles and the disciples. Later the ministry continued through Philip in Samaria, Peter in Caesarea, the persecuted and scattered believers in Antioch, Apostle Paul and his associates in the major part of the Greco-Roman world.From early on, the state rulers started persecuting the community of believers (church) as we see the death of James the apostle by Herod Agrippa (Ac.12:1-25). The movement of the Gospel to the new geographical locations brought conflict with the religio-political institutions in Philippi, Thessalonica, Athens and Ephesus. Moreover, the missionaries were considered as social deviants and political disturbers and traitors.

Brief Description of the Christian Community (Ac.2:43-47; 4:32-37) The early Christian societal life is described through the two summary passages in the Acts of the Apostles. We must analyse the first century church in the socio-political context of a stratified social system where the rich exploited the poor. In this environment the church exhibits an alternative Christian politeia (freedom of a city or state) with cardinal virtues of koinonia (fellowship) and philanthrophia (benevolence /love of humanity). The value systems of the state probably were not life affirming to the colonial subjects. But Christian identity is marked by ‘fellowship and the breaking of the bread’ (Ac.2:42), ‘all believers were one in heart and mind’ (Ac.4:32) and ‘had everything in common’ (Ac.2:44). An alternative structure was formulated by the first Century Christian Church by the rich selling their property, bringing the money to the Apostles’ feet (Ac.2:44-45; 4:3437). Their communal sharing brought ‘honour with all people’ resulting the rapid growth of the Christian community (Ac.2:47). The first century 'ecclesia' brought the rich and poor around the same table to experience the eschatological joy of living together as the family of God.

Paul before the Roman Political Authorities in Philippi, Thessalonica and Ephesus The early disciples of Jesus faced persecution in the Greco-Roman world mainly from the Jewish religious leaders in and around Judea (Ac.4:1-22; 5:17-42; 6:8-8:3). But later the Apostles faced direct political opposition as they moved outside Palestine (Ac.13-28). For eg., the Apostles (Paul and Silas) encountered state administered persecution in the process of sharing the gospel in Philippi, a Roman colony’ (Ac.16:12). The wholistic salvation (Spirit, Body, and Soul) is preached by the Apostles and salvation has come to so many people including the slave girl and the jailer and the family (Ac.16:16-40). This story reveals the collaboration of the slave trade that goes with the state politics in Philippi. Further, the slave girl was a profit making machine that benefited the state owned business men. It is probable that, the imperial state supported the elite businessmen to exploit the poor and the marginalized for their personal gain.The preachers of the gospel were brought before the state magistrates (Ac.16:2026) accusing as the disturbers of the state law and order. They were beaten, flogged and finally imprisoned at the instigation of the magistrates without any administrative trials (Ac.16:22-24).

Luke also sheds the light on the other part of the history of the church when the state politics worked against the preachers of the gospel. The Apostles did not run away from the jail as soon as the miracle happened rather they were witnessing to the great work of the Lord to the jailer and his family (Ac.16:25-34). Meanwhile, Paul challenged the mistreatment of the state administration by stating the illegal ‘public beating without a trial’ (Ac.16:37). Paul also ascertains the privileges of the Roman citizenship and boldly demanded the rights before the law enforcing authorities for their personal appearance to escort them (Ac.16:37, 38).

In Thessalonica, the instigators were the jealous Jews who collaborated with the native Greeks and accused the preachers of the gospel as the ‘trouble makers of the entire world’ (Ac.17:6) and they were charged with sedition (Ac.17:7).

This is a clear example of the ‘mob governance’ who has taken the law in their hands and where the state officials became mere puppets.

Ephesus was another colonized province where the mob violence took the administration to dictate their terms. Luke portrays the Roman colonized Asia Minor with exploitative structures of sorcery, magic and exorcism (Ac.19:13-20).

Magic was another exploitative structure

The

movement of the Gospel to the new geographical locations brought conflict with the religiopolitical institutions in Philippi, Thessalonica, Athens, and Ephesus.

Moreover, the missionaries were considered as social deviants and political disturbers and traitors.

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The

court did not acquit Paul even after they were convinced of Paul’s innocence.

In addition, Paul also could speak about the ethical values of ‘righteousness, self control and the judgement to come’

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working in Ephesus with the blessing of the city administration (Ac.19:11-20). It is a mixture of different religious traditions working together to stop the proclamation of the gospel under the protection of the state government. The Artemis (goddess Diana) cult was encountered by the preachers of the gospel (Ac.19:23-23). However, there were sympathetic elements among the state administration who intervened on behalf of the missionaries (Ac.19:35-41).

Paul’s Arrest and Trial before the State Administration in Caesarea Luke describes about the intervention of the state appointed imperial administrator Claudius Lysias rescuing Paul from the religious mob who tried to kill Paul as soon as he returned back to Jerusalem (Ac.21:31, 36; cf.22:22). Paul made use of the permission given by the state administration to defend his case through a speech in Aramaic (Ac.22:1-21). However, he questioned the method the state administrator (the commander) adopted in finding out the truth from Paul and also revealed his Roman citizenship (Ac.22:22-29).

Luke also projects the state administrations’ (the Roman tribune) role in saving the life of Paul from the Jewish religious fundamentalists (Ac.23:12-22). The state administration sent Paul to his superior Governor Felix in Caesarea as a prisoner with a letter explaining the case (Ac.23:25-30).The intervention of the state authorities in rescuing Paul from the angry mob in Jerusalem is seen as a preventive measure which

is considered to be positive.

Paul’s Trials before the Roman Governors Felix and Festus Paul could be seen as the representative of the minoritarean Christian community in its defendant platform before the administrative center. He was in chains (Ac.24:27) and he was treated as a political prisoner by the state administration. At the offensive side, the Jewish religious center at Jerusalem had appointed attorney Tertullus as a legal advocate to prosecute Paul (Ac.24:1-9).

The legal advocate framed serious charge against Paul as a ‘rioter’ (anti-Roman), ‘ring leader of the Nazarenes sect’ (Ac. 24:5) and accused him of profaning the temple at Jerusalem (Ac.24:6-8).

Paul defended his case confidently before the state administrative court (Ac.24:10-21). Further, giving due respect to the court, he clarified the opponents and challenged the legal prosecutor with proof. He argued for his faith in the ‘God of our fathers’, their scriptures, association with their temple by offering sacrifices and giving alms to the nation (Ac.24:14-18). Moreover, he expanded the idea of resurrection with the hope given in the Jewish scriptures (Ac.24:15,16). The court did not acquit Paul even after they were convinced of Paul’s innocence. In addition, Paul also could speak about the ethical values of ‘righteousness, self control and the judgement to come’ (Ac.24:25). The Roman governor Felix silenced the truth for two years and left him under detention. Luke narrates the state judiciary who sided with the powerful and the wealthy.

The Jerusalem centered Jewish lobby had an upper hand on the state politics in the decision making or prolonging the process as we see in the trials of Paul. They were also requesting an extradition of the case from Caesarea to Jerusalem and conspired to ambush Paul (Ac.25:1-9). Meanwhile, the Jewish aristocracy brought charges against Paul but were not able to prove their charges. Luke portrays Governor Festus also was inclined towards the opponents of Paul due to cowardice and political fovouritism towards the Jewish community in Jerusalem. However, Paul’s response to the state administrator (Governor Festus) challenged the extradition move by stating that “I am appealing to the emperor’s tribunal; this is where I ought to be tried… I appeal to the emperor.” (Ac.25:10,11).

He was negotiating with the state administrative center probably as the representative of the minority community. He also wisely made use of the amenities of his Roman citizenship. Luke portrays the heroic stand of Paul through the

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statement i.e., ‘if I am in the wrong and have committed something for which I deserve to die, I am not trying to escape death; but if there is nothing to their charges against me, no one can turn me over to them. I appeal to the emperor’ (Ac.25:11 NRSV).

Paul was finally tried under King Agrippa II, the representative of the state political rulers of the time (Ac.25:23-32). The gospel witness of Paul in the midst of the military pomp and glory (‘they entered the audience hall with the military tribunes and the prominent men of the city’ (Ac.25:23) displayed the boldness he showed before the state judiciary system. Paul’s speech before King Agrippa was the climax of his defense speech and he did not help Paul in his appeal for deliverance. Finally, Paul is coming to the political center of the time to argue his case before Caesar, the supreme authority over the imperial state (Ac.27:1-28:31). In the end, Luke describes, Paul’s preaching with boldness about the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus at the center of the state (Ac.28:30,31).

Paul also addressed the socio-economic issues in the state centers that exploited the marginalized with an alternative culture of the Gospel of Jesus. The state and religious centers work together in collaboration with each other for getting political favours. Paul played the role of an obedient Roman citizen but expressed his counter voices where ever/ whenever it was necessary.

Theological Implication The collaboration of the Roman State with the nationalistic Jewish religion of the first century becomes a threat for the growth of the church during the Apostolic period. The Jewish cultural nationalism similar to the present day Hindutva cultural nationalism forced the state to persecute the minority Christians. Similar to the deifying of the state leaders of the Roman Empire, in India also directly/indirectly a deification process is on the move. In this background, we have to preach a kingdom of God that goes beyond the nationalcultural-racial and ethnic boundaries. The Church needs to speak of God’s kingdom instead of our personal kingdoms through preaching the gospel, healing the sick, and casting out the demons just like the Apostles. The Church builds a community of equals by sharing their wealth. They also transcend the class, colour, gender and ethnic differences.

Paul’s claim of Roman citizenship (Ac.16:3740; 22:25-29) and his political appeal to Caesar

(Ac.25:11-12) give guidelines for the present day church,how to relate with the political state, the rules and the rulers.Paul claimed his rights as a Roman citizen as he encountered the political charges. However, the first century ecclesia did not take a revolutionary step in countering the imperial state rather they have taken a strategic stand of affiliation and distancing at the same time. They also challenged the religio-political power structures that destroy the human values of the time.

The dichotomy between political/spiritual, theological/secular, Church/State probably did not find place in the Apostolic period as Luke explained through the Acts of the Apostles.

The compartmentalized attitude will never help the present day minoritarean Christian community who suffers persecution from the religiously supported state government.

The recent development in the national politics exhibits the cruel face of the religious fundamentalism that frightens the minoritarean church through ‘saffronizing education’, ‘media’ and administrative bureaucracy.

The church of the new millennium must be a people’s Church that seeks justice and peace for the poor and the marginalized. The western type of ecclesial hierarchy that borrowed the imperial model of white color ministry for the leaders is against the model emanated from the first century ekklesia. The first century ecclesia confronted the imperial state ideology of exclusive nationality, culture and language.

They witnessed God’s love, justice and peace to the entire universe.

The imperial custody of the Apostles and their trials in the administrative capitals of Caesarea and Rome bring probable guidelines for the present day Church. The Church strategically affiliates and distances to the reliogio-political centers of the state. Moreover, they confronted the legal prosecution with proof (Ac.24:13). In our present day context also, the Church must appropriate the amenities of the state privileges.

She must strategically make use of her citizenary privileges before the political centers (Ac.25:612). She should become a bold witness to the gospel with full confidence on the rights of the nation and the authority God has given to him/ her (AC.28:30,31). The Church must be aware of her state given rights through the constitution and make use of the privileges similar to Paul’s appeal to Caesar over against the partisan position shown by governor Festus. The Church can also take a step to empower the believers by teaching and claiming the rights of the minorities.

The

imperial custody of the Apostles and their trials in the administrative capitals of Caesarea and Rome bring probable guidelines for the present day Church.

The Church strategically affiliates and distances to the reliogiopolitical centers of the state.

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Pastor P. J. Daniel Pastor, Bible Teacher, Trivandrum

Church

is a spiritual kingdom established by the Lord Jesus Christ on earth.

It is totally obliged to the one who has established it.

Church is the place where the will of God is being done on earth.

It originated on earth on the day of Pentecost, formally inaugurated by the Lord Jesus Christ by sending the Holy Spirit on earth.

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CHURCH AND THE POLITICAL STATE Church is a spiritual kingdom established by the Lord Jesus Christ on earth. It is totally obliged

to the one who has established it. Church is the place where the will of God is being done on earth. It originated on earth on the day of Pentecost, formally inaugurated by the Lord Jesus Christ by sending the Holy Spirit on earth.

It had not existed on earth before Pentecost. It can be proved by the statement of Jesus Christ at Caesarea Philip “I will build my church”. Since this statement is used in future tense, it is obvious that the Church was not in existence before the day of Pentecost. Jesus also stated that hell and hades cannot prevail against it.

Though the church is in the world it is not of the world. It is a heavenly system maintained on earth by the Holy Spirit to eradicate the dominion of Satan from the world, which he had usurped from Adam. The present ruler of this earth is Satan. He is the god and prince of this earth (2 Corinthians 4:4; John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11). When Jesus was tempted by Satan, He had shown all glory of this world to Jesus and demanded Jesus to worship him. Jesus did not try to argue against the dominion of Satan over

this world, but only argued against worship. Jesus well knew that it belongs to him only temporarily and it will be recaptured not by bowing down before him but by crushing his head on the cross.

So Satan’s dominion on earth is temporary. He knows well that his time is going to be finished.

So he is trying his level best to evacuate the Kingdom of God. But it will end in the destruction of the evil one, and Christ and His Kingdom will be the final winner. The Kingdom of God will be established in three stages. (1) The resurrection of Christ was the initial breakthrough. (2) The second stage will be at the resurrection of the saints at his second coming. (3) The final stage will be at the great white throne judgment, when all the wicked will be resurrected and put in the lake of fire. It will be the consummation of his heavenly kingdom when Christ will destroy “every rule and every authority and power” (1 Cor. 15: 23-25) But we have to discuss certain aspects regarding our relationship with this world. In this regard we have to discuss three passages from the New Testament. Romans 13: 1 -7; 1 Peter 2: 11 – 17; 1Timothy 2: 1, 2.

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Our Civic Responsibilities Though we live in this world our citizenship is heavenly (Phil. 3:20). As long as we live in this world we must maintain a heavenly pattern of life on earth. We are also the ambassadors of heaven. An ambassador is the representative of the country to which he belongs to. Since we are heavenly citizens we belong to heaven. So we should demonstrate the heavenly standard and lifestyle in this world. Though we are in the world we are not of the world.

Since we are in this world we have to keep certain civic responsibilities, which will be discussed in detail.

1. All authorities are appointed by God. There is only one higher power in this universe that is God, who is sovereign and omnipotent. He

is in total control of the cosmos. He ordains the higher powers on earth. Proverbs 8: 15 validates this suggestion. “By me kings reign and princes decree justice”. So all authorities got their authority from God. Jesus answered Pilate while he was interrogated, “you would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above” (John 19:11). From this verse it is obvious that all authority is given from above. This is the state in which Christians, under certain conditions, can be loyal subjects (1 Peter 2: 13 – 17) 2. All the citizens are supposed to obey the authorities.

We have to obey the civil codes and rules of the local government if it is applicable to our Biblical precepts. The three Hebrew youths never yielded to the commandment of Emperor Nebuchadnezzar, because bowing down before a

Whenever God erects a house of prayer, the devil always builds a chapel there; And 'twill be found, upon examination, The latter has the largest congregation Assorted Authors

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statue was against their Decalogue. Such cases God intervened and rescued His loyal servants.

As a common regulation all Christians are obliged to keep the civic rules of the state. If we do not obey them we resist the authority of God. Moreover we may come under condemnation or punishment. Resistance or rebellion against constituted authority is, therefore, to resist God who instituted the state (Romans 13: 2).

Within

such a society the church may be free to worship God, obey his precepts and spread his gospel. So it is the duty of the church to pray for the state, so that its leaders may administer justice and pursue peace.

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Being subject to state authorities is not a servile attitude. Subjection is used by Paul in regard to mutual respect and submission (1 Cor. 16: 16). “The rejection of subjection in an ordered society threatens peace and unity today. Ignorance and indifference to this cardinal principle of civilized society have brought things to the brink of chaos and anarchy”. A Christian can be responsible in the social order because he is free. Resistance or rebellion against constituted authority is, therefore, to resist God who instituted the state. The state is not eternal, and it is not the redemptive society – as the church but it is God’s instrument to bring order among the lawless.

3. They are appointed to maintain peace and social justice in the country.

They are appointed by God to maintain social security, peace and tranquility in the country.

They have to punish the anti-social elements. The Bible says that they bear the sword not in vain but to execute punishment upon the evil doers.

State officials are rulers and deserve the loyalty of Christians only when they approve good conduct and punish the wrong doers (Romans 13: 3, 4). “The corrupt politicians who appeal to the Christian conscience to protect their unjust reign of terror and tyranny should be totally repudiated”. Some rulers must be resisted by the testimony and their ruthless dealings with the Christians. We have examples of such in the history. Tertullian, the great convert of Carthage, protested to the precepts of the Roman provinces against the persecution of Christians. But one thing is sure that the church flourishes during severe persecution.

Tertullian’s famous statement approves it. “semen est sanguis Christianorum” –“blood of Christians is seed of the church”.

4. All subjects are supposed to pay the taxes of the residing countries.

Jesus said: 'render to Caesar that which is due to him'. It is a model to us that Jesus paid tax to the state government together with Peter through a miracle fishing. This is an example demonstrated

to his disciples, which is also applicable to each one of us. It is good to remember his famous saying on the occasion when he was asked as a trap whether to pay tax or not. “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are of God’s” (Mark 12: 17). We should not make any negligence in pay our taxes and other dues to the state government.

There is more than enough money due to the state authorities. Respect and honor are also due (Romans 13: 3, 4) but it is not to the wrong doers. Even those with the best of conduct must give honor and the highest consideration to those who promote the good and punish the evil. Public authorities of this type are worthy of confidence and full support. But we lack these in this modern generation. We see there is corruption and anarchy from top to the bottom.

It is difficult to solve the situation with a minority of Christians in our country. Jesus reiterates that we are the “salt of the earth”. As salt seasons and preserves things from decay, we too are supposed to preserve the world from moral corruption and decay.

5. All believers are supposed to pray for the authorities.

Apostle Paul urges to the Christians to pray for the kings and the higher authorities. The prayer would thus include all who are in high positions – President, Prime minister, Cabinet ministers and all the state ministers. Though we can pray for their conversion but the primary aim will be the welfare of the state, that we lead a quiet and peaceable life, godly and respectful in every way. Here is an important apostolic teaching about the church and the state. Even when the state is not Christian, it is the duty of the state to maintain the peace, protect the citizens from any kind of disturbances, to preserve law and order and to punish evil and promote good. Within such a society the church may be free to worship God, obey his precepts and spread his gospel. It is the duty of the church to pray for the state, so that its leaders may administer justice and pursue peace.

It is sure that the present world regulations are being turned against Christians, because Satan knows that the time of his doom is imminent. So he is on top gear to eradicate the heavenly reign over this earth. But we are confident that the heavenly kingdom will be the final winner. So, with Peter, we can confess that we are foreigners and sojourners of this world until we obtain that eternal kingdom.

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Pastor Binoy Eapen Philip Faculty, India Bible College & Seminary, Pastor.

Christianity Under Imperial Favour and its Impacts

Christianity had never tasted any Roman emperor who had supported her to such an extent as Constantine did.

By the

beginning of the 4th century fortunes changed for the persecuted sect. For nearly three hundred years the church was supressed by the cruel Roman emperors through persecution, but the church withstood persecution and the heroes of faith died like bold soldiers for their faith. The fortune or table changed to such an extent that Christianity became a procured religion and finally the only legal religion inside the Roman Empire.

The Edict of Milan passed in AD 313 marked one of the most distinct turning points in the history of Christianity. This period was one of the most important in the history of Christianity. Out of the seven ecumenical councils four of them were held during this time, Christian creeds were formulated during this period. Christianity became free to develop her theology, organisation and worship.

Christianity has much to talk about Constantine during this period.

Christianity and Constantine Christianity had never tasted any Roman emperor who had supported her to such an

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extent as Constantine did. It was in AD 313 the edict of Milan (Edict of Milan because this Edict was passed in a place called Milan in Rome) or the Toleration Act was passed by Constantine, since than Christianity was no longer in conflict with the Roman Empire. This put Christianity on equal terms with other religions.

Constantine

understood that Christianity could not be destroyed by persecution so he was sure that the God which the Christians worship was stronger than any other gods including the Roman Emperors

Constantine’s motive behind recognising Christianity is still a matter of debate. It has become a debate because a man who supported Christianity to such an extent in a period where Christianity was highly supressed never took baptism till his death nor his conduct never showed a Christian character. Thereby historians put three interpretations for his motive.

First, Constantine understood that Christianity could not be destroyed by persecution so he was sure that the God which the Christians worship was stronger than any other gods including the Roman Emperors.

Secondly, to what extent Christianity was persecuted to that extent was the growth of Christianity. He thus saw in Christianity a strong unifying force for the empire. if encouraged and strengthened thus his support could have helped political reasons. Thirdly, perhaps he had some real sympathy for this persecuted sect. It is also said that before his victory at the Melvian Bridge battle, he saw a vision of Cross in the sky and along with the vision he also heard a voice saying “Conquer with this sign”. So immediately he replaced the official eagle sign of Rome with the sign of Cross.

So these can be some of the possible motives behind him supporting and encouraging Christianity, whatever it may be the fact remains that it was he or during his period the position of Christianity highly revolutionised, from the lowest ebb to the limelight.

Theodosius and Christianity Theodosius I in 380 decreed that all subjects of the empire (east) must accept the Christian faith as stated in the creed of the council of Nicaea. This was done mainly to check the spread of Arian Christianity (A heritical teaching).

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In 392 Theodosius became the sole emperor and continued the same religious policy. Thus Christianity became part of the law of the empire. All its inhabitants had to profess themselves Christian on pain of being outlawed.

Many temples and idols were destroyed and by

AD 400, paganism was completely wiped out and the table now was fully turned.

Positive and negative impacts of imperial favour on Christianity When Constantine revolutionized Christianity it enjoyed lot of benefits.

1. Christianity became an accepted religion through the act of Toleration.

2. Sunday and December 25 was made public holidays.

3. Making grants from his treasury for church buildings and the support for clergy.

4. Exempting the clergy from Taxation.

5. Sign of cross became the sign of standard in Roman Empire.

6. Emperor Constantine made himself available to settle the problems in the church On the other side because of the favour of the state or the Emperors, Christianity also had to undergo negative effects with Christianity the favoured Religion in the Roman Empire, Imperial favour became one of the main cause of the spread of Christianity. Many people embraced Christianity to please the emperors and some other embraced Christianity out of force, while others received Christian faith because it was a matter of prestige.

Thus people joined Christian faith without a real conversion experience, because to be a Christian was now no longer dangerous, but a privilege.

Conclusion The support of state or imperial favour was always a blessing or a prayer answered to the persecuted Christian community. There was an age when they were turned into pieces, the period of Nero and Domition. But by the time of Constantine and Theodosius Christianity became the highly honoured religion of the empire. “from Rags to the Throne”. Even though Christianity enjoyed lot of benefits but on the other side lost people, because people now converted to Christianity not for Christ's sake but for Imperial favour.

Conversion without real experience lacks genuineness and this in turn creates disaster.

This happens today too. during the time of our fore fathers people accepted Christ with genuine repentance, tears rolling down their eyes. But now the youth of our church receive Christ for the “sake of receiving”. people with no genuine conversion will always be a burden for the Religion and the Church.

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P. Abraham Former senior scientific officer, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai

POLITICS AND CHURCH Different countries have adopted different approaches towards religion. Religion and politics make a toxic mixture. In some parts of the world, religion has become a dirty word. Europe is suffering from Christophobia and there is hostility against churches. Virulent atheism has spread there widely.

It was Thomas Jefferson who said in 1802 that religion is a matter which lies solely between man and his God. He felt that legislature should make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohihibiting the free exercise thereof. Thus he built a wall of separation between Church and State.

A few examples of some countries are given below: 1. India is nominally a secular, democratic republic and there are no special provisions favouring any religion in its Constitution.

However, many of the State governments have promulgated laws to regulate the freedom of religion. Politicians are often accused of playing communal politics. After the 2002 Gujarat violence, there were allegations of political parties indulging in vote bank politics on the basis of religion. Violent incidents are reportedly occurrring regularly against the Christian community in UttarPreadesh, Madhya Pradesh and Chhatisgarh. This is a matter of serious concern. Government should have zero tolerance for communal violence.

2. The monarchs of Great Britain have retained ecclesiastical authority in the Church of England. The British Queen is the Supreme Governor of this Church. The bishops of the Church are members of the Upper House of Parliament, the House of Lords.

3. The Australian Parliament opens with a Christian prayer and the preamble of their Constitution refers to a humble reliance on the blessing of Almighty God.

Biblical View According to the Bible, the will of God permeates and supersedes every aspect of life.

God's will takes precedence over everything and everyone (Matt.6:33). The plan and purposes of God are fixed and His will is inviolable (Dan.4:3435). It is God who sets up kings and deposes them (Dan.2:21). The most high is sovereign over the kingdoms of man and gives them to anyone He wishes (Dan.4:17). Politics is merely a method God uses to accomplish His purpose. Evil men will use political power for evil; but God means it for good, working all things together for good to those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose (Rom.8:28). At times, God uses evil men to punish the sin of His people: He used the Assyrians to punish the kingdom of Israel and the Babylonians to punish the kingdom of Judah.

Governments cannot save us; only God can.

No government can change the heart of man;

According to the Bible, the will of God permeates and supersedes every aspect of life. God's will takes precedence over everything and everyone (Matt.6:33).

The plan and purposes of God are fixed and His will is inviolable (Dan.4:34-35).

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Jesus

called sinners to repentance to make them citizens of heaven. The first century Christians were asked to proclaim the Gospel and live giving clear evidence to the transforming power of the Gospel.

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only God can transform our lives. Bible does not direct us toward political activism (2 Cor. 10:3-4).

We have also not been called to moralise our society. Jesus did not seek to bring reforms in the political arena. Neither did He join with the Zealots to bring better government for the Jews.

Jesus and His disciples did not spend time to reform the pagan world of its idolatrous, immoral and corrupt practices using the government of the day. The apostles never called the believers to organise civil disobedience movements to protest against the unjust laws of the Roman empire.

Instead, Jesus called sinners to repentance to make them citizens of heaven. The first century Christians were asked to proclaim the Gospel and live giving clear evidence to the transforming power of the Gospel. As followers of Christ, we represent Christ 24x7. Therefore, our participation in the political process reflects on Christ, who is the head of the Church (Eph.5:22).

As Christians, our responsibility is to obey the laws of the land and be good citizens (Rom.13:1-2).

It is the responsibility of the government to rule in authority over us –to collect taxes and to keep peace, maintaining law and order. We should exercise our opportunity to vote and elect leaders whose views closely parallel our own. Voting is a private way to help the society and does not distract us from our calling as believers in Christ.

However, we should always be reminded that the voting process cannot bring any real change to the people of our nation; change only comes from the heart. We are also mistaken if we think that it is the job of politicians to defend, advance or guard biblical truths and Christian values. Our mission is to change hearts through the word of God, not through political reform. By becoming all things to all men (1 Cor.11:1), we might by all means save some (1Cor. 9:19-23).

We must stand our ground when it comes to disobedience to the law of God. We should not buckle by compromising our convictions. In the Roman empire, the citizens enjoyed some privileges. Apostle Paul was able more than once to surprise and alarm the civic authorities who were torturing him, by reminding them of his Roman citizenship. He even demanded an apology from them for throwing him into prison.

In the early days of Christianity, a scoffer once enquired: “What is your Carpenter doing now?”

The answer of the unperturbed Christian was bold: “Making a coffin for your Emperor.”

John Calvin (1509-1564) read the newly published writings of Martin Luther and “God subdued and brought his heart to docility.”

Calvin's abilities led the city of Geneva to invite him to promote reforms there. Under the

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motto,”To God alone be the glory”, he set about transforming Geneva into a model Christian city.

Church attendance was compulsory. Theatregoing, shooting, gambling, dancing, drinking and extravagant clothing were forbidden. In spite of opposition, this strict regime ensured peace and prosperity for some years. Calvin's writings provided a clear handbook of Protestant thinking for succeeding generations. Hearing of the reforms Calvin had brought about in Geneva, hundreds of refugees flocked to the city. When they returned to their home country, they carried with them Calvin's teachings and ideas.

Christians have always lived, even flourished, under repressive governments. They, not their governments, were the light of the world and the salt of the earth. Their hope was in the protection provided by God, not the politicians.

Lay people who participate in political activity on an individual basis do it without identifying their political activity with the stand of the Church. Such people should always remember that “politics make strange bedfellows.” An argument often heard in this connection is that, if the Christians do not involve themselves in the political process, the government will be left in the hands of the non-Christians. Church history teaches that government in the hands of the Church is always bad for the Church. Christians will always be few, not many(Matt.7:13-14).

In today's society, the Church has generally refused to express publicly her stand on socially significant issues and to present it to governmental bodies. Even when it does, often it becomes a cry in the wilderness.

Our newspapers abound with stories about the misdeeds and scams of politicians. A number of them have been sentenced to several years of imprisonment in cases involving disproportionate assets. A minister who claimed a salary of only Re.1/- per month for 5 years had unaccounted wealth worth several crores and was recently sentenced to imprisonment. A minister in the central cabinet is now embroiled in a controversy inolving forgery of his graduation and postgraduation mark sheets. It seems this is in addition to 23 other cases pending against him. There are also many members of parliament with criminal antecedents.

Course of Action We live before a watching world. We do not know how many non-Christians are watching us daily, determining the truths of the message of Christianity strictly on the basis of how we live, how we work, how we respond to life's tests, or how we conduct ourselves in daily life. Peter

urges us to abstain from fleshly lusts. By doing right before God, we will muzzle the mouths of rumourmongers. When Christians fail to meet biblical principles, it is heart-breaking. Think of what it says to unbelievers who read it in the newspapers. Living a clean life is the least we can do to demonstrate our gratitude for God's deliverance. When Plato was told that a certain man was making slanderous charges against him, he responded: “I will live in such a way that no one will believe what he says.”

Christians should base their lives on the biblical principles of morality, unity, justice, mercy (Psa. 85:10), concern for the spiritual and material welfare of the people, love for the land and the desire to transform the world according to the words of Christ. Most political decisions and actions tend to benefit only a part of the society, while restricting or infringing on the interests of others. Many such decisions are stained with sin. Christians ought to be very sensitive morally and spiritually. Christians should be careful to see that their public activities do not turn from service to opportunities to nourish pride, greed and other vices.

Rowan Williams, the Archbishop of Canterbury, said: “Early Christianity was not an opting out of politics, but a living out of another kind of political identity and vision. You learn the deepest kind of civic responsibilty and civic virtue in this community. In the ancient world, this identity of being a Christian and the political expectation of the Roman empire came to a deadly collision, resulting in the martyrdom of many Christians. Church argues about what is good for the human race, in the light of what God has shown concerning the calling and dignity of the entire humanity.”

About 100 years ago, John Neville Figgis, an Anglican theologian, wrote about how the Church should be seeking to shape public opinion. “The Church ought to be a place where people were educating one another about civic questions, human dignity, liberty, responsibility and the creation of a sustainable environment.” He stated: “The first business of the Church is to live differently, to be the kind of community where civic dignity is all the time being developed and explored. That civic dignity becomes the organ by which people are instructed to go out into the wider society and talk about what is good for the wider community. The better we get at that argument within the Church, the better we shall get at arguing about the values and visions that we derive from what God has done. Church thus beomes a place where image, ideals and policies are generated and thought through in a way that

Christians should base their lives on the biblical principles of morality, unity, justice, mercy (Psa. 85:10), concern for the spiritual and material welfare of the people, love for the land and the desire to transform the world according to the words of Christ.

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Men are God's method.

The church is looking for better methods; God is looking for better men.

allows them to move into wider discussions.”

In other words, the Christians should shake themselves out of the salt-shaker.

Over the years, I have come to know of several Christian leaders belonging to different denominations (Anglican, Methodist, Charismatic, Pentecostal, Independent, etc) who play politics within the Church. For selfish reasons, they create division within the congregations and indulge in corrupt practices while dealing with finances and church properties. (As I write, a news clipping about the demeaning activities of a Pentecostal Pastor is on my desk.) More often than not, the quarrels and conflicts have expressed themselves in personal power plays, political maneuverings, strong-minded and selfish members determined to get their way, stubborn Pastors who intimidate and bully the members, unbending and tightfisted committee members who refuse to listen to reason, and those who seem to delight in stirring up others through rumours and gossip. Often the nasty infighting among us is embarrassingly petty and dirtier than the tricks played by regular politicians. We may be adults in age and height, but we can be awfully childish in attitude. The world has a field day watching us quarrel for the silliest of reasons (James 4:2). Litigation has led to severe indictment of several of these persons by the

judges. A number of such leaders have also been punished by the Church. However, the number of such politicians in the Church is steadily growing.

The saying goes:“Wherever there is light, there are bugs”; and the bugs are on the increase! We never learn to make the transactions transparent and the leaders accountable. We seem to think that our job is limited to “pay and pray.” It also appears that we are resigned to think that Christians living in close harmony is next to impossible.

It is for the Church to show to the world what makes a good citizen, a good city and a good society. As citizens of heaven, Christians should live differently to form intelligent, prayerful public opinion within the Church's own membership and then move into the wider society. Think, act and speak for the common good set before us in that transforming vision of the Body of Christ, in which no one lives for himself alone. In this context, I recall an Office Order issued by Dr.HomiBhabha, the founder of the atomic energy programme in our country. He emphasised that what is done in the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) should not only be right and safe, but also be such that the rest of the country can be asked to emulate.

Can we implement a similar requirement for the members of the Church and thus be an example for the world to emulate? So help us God.

E. M. Bounds

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Dr. J. N. Manokaran A Civil Engineer by profession. God called him and his family to be missional leader in Haryana as cross cultural missionaries for eleven years. Since, 1997 they returned back to Tamil Nadu to help missionaries and pastors to build their capacities by teaching, training and writing.

Christian, Church and India India is a vast country with a huge population.

It is diverse in culture, language, food and beliefs.

Christians are a minority, but have contributed greatly for the nation building. In fact, Christianity in India is older to several European and American religions as St. Thomas, one of the twelve disciples of Lord Jesus Christ came to serve in India.

There has been continuous presence of Christian community since first century in India.

India is a Republic, with a democratic and political environment. According to the Constitution of India, the nation is a secular country, where all religions are considered equal.

However, there is always criticism by some fringe elements, who habitually question the loyalty and patriotism of minorities including Christians.

In some parts of the country this is very loud and in some part just whispers.

Nation is sacred Humanity was scattered after the failure of human endeavour to be concentrated in one place by building a Tower. “From one man he made all the nations that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands” (Acts 17:26).Israel was a model nation.

God chose Abraham and his descendants. They went through the collective experience of being slaves in Egypt. Then Moses delivers them with

great power and provides them the Law and the Covenant. Vishal Mangalwadi writes: "No culture in history ever required it's slaves, brick makers and shepherds to read and write." A nation is formed by the law, literature and culture.

Vishal Mangalwadi writes: "Why don’t Hindus hurt cows? Because they consider cows “sacred”.

Why do most Indian politicians and civil servants rob their nation and individuals? Why do most businessmen cheat their nation by evading taxes?

Because we don’t believe that “nation” is sacred.

The nation, several generations of Indians have been taught, is merely an accident of mindless, meaningless history."

Biblical Understanding of Democracy However, the key verse to understanding democracy is: “For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king; it is he who will save us.” (Isaiah 33:22) The Israelites were under God who was their Judge, Lawgiver and King. Democracy springs out of these three words. The three pillars of democracy are: The Parliament (Lawgiver), The Executive (King) and The Judiciary (Judge). The three functions in a democracy were fulfilled by God Himself for the Israelites. In the secular world, these functions are fulfilled by human leaders.

The

three pillars of democracy are: The Parliament (Lawgiver), The Executive (King) and The Judiciary (Judge).

The three functions in a democracy were fulfilled

by God Himself for the Israelites.

In the secular world, these functions are fulfilled by human leaders.

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Tainted Human Institutions Human institutions are always tainted by sin as human being is a fallen creature. However noble the institution could be, they are tainted with sin, corruption and immorality. No human institution could be perfect. A good example is the Church which is imperfect. Therefore, we witness corruption, casteism, nepotism and other sins within the Church. Therefore, the three functions in the democracy ought to be different. Unlike monarchy where the king takes all the three roles, democracy has three different leaders. In monarchy, the law was king’s word even if uttered according to his selfish motives or whims and fancies.

The king in a monarchy was also the chief executive and also the arbitrator or judge.

Hence, monarchy was not a dynamic option.

The nations that experienced democratic institutions progressed while nations with monarchy stagnated.

The coziness between church and state is good for the state and bad for the church.

G.K. Chesterton

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Checks and Balances Since, human beings are fallen sinful beings, the institutions they touch also becomes corrupt and sometimes evil and wicked. There is a need for ‘checks and balances’ to make individuals and systems accountable, just and progress oriented.

So, in a democracy the Parliament, the Legislature and the Judiciary are interdependent and they are mutually accountable. The Parliament cannot pass a law that violates the basic tenets of the constitution or executive cannot introduce a ruling or create an institution that violates the constitution. The Judiciary can overrule a law

that violates the basic tenets of the Constitution like the Fundamental rights.

Nationalism based on righteousness "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." (Proverbs 14:34) Righteousness is doing what is pleasing, right and true before God. A nation should stand for truth and righteousness. Christians believe in a nationalism that is righteous and pleasing before God. The Church could be persecuted for standing for truth and righteousness. Even in India.

Jews chose Barabbas because of misguided nationalism. When Pilate gave the choice of choosing a prisoner to release as annual celebration; instigated by Priests and Jewish religious leaders Jews chose Barabbas. Indeed, Barabbas represented hatred, lawlessness, violence, revenge, and rebelliousness. Misguided nationalism is dangerous to a nation. The Church provides leadership in teaching right kind of nationalism that is true and righteousness.

Nationalism loves justice Ahab was not a righteous king. He desired to take the inheritance of Naboth for himself, which he was not willing to give. Ahab and his wife Jezebel conspired to make false allegations against Naboth and executed him. That was travesty of justice - unlawful takeover of property, owner was summarily executed by goons. Elijah confronted Ahab. The Church has the responsibility to rebuke the nation when such travesty of justice happens.

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Nationalism based on Truth The Church practices nationalism that is based on Truth. The Bible is the Word of God and is truth. Lord Jesus Christ is the Truth.

Nationalism should be based on truth revealed in the scripture. All people are created equal according to the Bible. The Church rejects any idea that states that people are created unequal - like the hierarchy of castes. Similarly, the status of woman is subordinate and demeaning in many cultures. The Church stands for the rights of women, dignity of women.

Nationalism based on Love True nationalism is based on love and not on hate or revenge. Hatred to some people, who are different because of religion, or caste, or economic status or education has to be opposed.

Lord's parable of Good Samaritan teaches how he was Great, that he crossed all boundaries of religion, race, class, nationality and helped the dying man. (Luke 10:25-37) The Church exemplifies nationalism that is defined by love of God and not hatred of people. Narrow minded nationalism that claims superiority over others are not based on love.

Nationalism and language The Church affirmed a culture by providing the Bible in their language. The Global Church involved in missions in India, translated the Bible into several Indian languages. Almost all major languages of India has their language renewed and rejuvenated by the work of missionaries, who wrote the grammar books and dictionaries of those languages. In spite of, several years of independence, no Indian language has developed to have higher education in science, medicine, technology, management or finance.

Inclusive nationalism The Church believes in inclusive nationalism.

There are always some people who like to exclude genuine people of a nation in the name of religion or race or ethnicity or language or caste. Esther confronted the conspiracy of Ethnic cleansing

by Haman with spiritual weapons of prayer and fasting and wise food diplomacy.

Christian Role in the nation Christians recognize the Sovereign authority of God, Nations are God creation, contribute for Nation Building and are spiritual and moral influence over the nation. Christians believe that the Constitution is the governing document, under the authority of God. When the nation

violates God's basic tenets; The Church functions as the Prophetic Voice.

1. Nation building: The Christians and the Indian church should be actively involved in nation building. In fact, moved by the love of God and the Spirit of God, Christians can do unique contribution for the nation. There are opportunities in the field of education and medicine. Somehow, Christians have not done enough in these two fields. Earlier Christians were in the forefront, now many opportunities have been lost. For example, India needs 300 more medical colleges. Christians, group of Christian medical professionals, and denominations could take this challenge and contribute. There are other needs that could be easily identified. Old age homes are needed in many parts of the nation.

2. Spiritual and moral influence: The Christians are light to the spiritually dark world. Today, there is lot of confusion in the areas of ethics.

The secular world is not able to take right kind of decisions. The Church that has the Word of God, should be able to articulate biblical standards and worldview to the world. For example, 'live-in-relationship' is accepted by the media, even courts. Promoting biblical worldview is important for the Church in India.

3. Prophetic Voice: The Church is the prophetic voice of the nation. There are policies taken

by Government that is not beneficial to many people. There are policies that favours elitism, or a group of people with vested interests. The Church should voice the concern on behalf of the oppressed, marginalized, and exploited masses. There are people who could be fewer in number, but excluded from Government programmes and systems. The Church should speak on behalf of them.

The

Church is the prophetic voice of the nation.

There are policies taken by Government that is not beneficial to many people.

Challenge Christians are true nationalists who stand for truth, justice, righteousness and right of all people. Historically, the Indian Church has contributed to nation building by sowing the seeds of nationalism by providing the Bible, teaching human values and demonstrating Christ's love in action. The Church has been the voice of the voiceless, oppressed and marginalized. The Church could be persecuted for this noble stand, but that cannot silence or eliminate the Church from nation building. In fact, the church should willingly face and accept persecution for doing the Will of God in the world.

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John Bunyan

(1628–1688)

“Christmas can be celebrated in the school room with pine trees, tinsel and reindeers, but there must be no mention of the man whose birthday is being celebrated.

One wonders how a teacher would answer if a student asked why it was called Christmas.”

Ronald Reagan

Author of

The Pilgrim’s Progress Despite creating such a beloved, often-translated Christian allegorical work as The Pilgrim’s Progress, British author John Bunyan faced a life of difficulty and obstacles. First, he had little schooling. His formal education lasted only two to four years; he served as an apprentice in his father’s tinker’s trade, and he also spent some time in military service. Second, his youth appeared not to be one of piety, but of abandonment, where he indulged in profanity and other behaviors considered sinful at the time. For a while, he was racked with fear over having committed the “unpardonable sin.” Some even believe he suffered psychotic illness. Only after becoming an enthusiastic believer while immersing himself in the Baptist Church did he feel free from his mental and spiritual burdens.

Fact: Sir Walter Scott believed John Bunyan was of gypsy descent because his father was a traveling tinker - a mender of pots and pans. Others say the elder Bunyan was a village blacksmith.

These trials became the basis for his great work The Pilgrim’s Progress. As he began to write, he also preached, and this, too, became a contentious issue in his life. He fiercely disagreed with the Quakers and at one point was indicted for preaching without a license. When he refused to stop preaching, he was thrown into prison. For twelve years he was confined, and there he wrote a large part of his definitive work. Only after Charles II issued the Declaration of Religious Indulgence was Bunyan finally released. But Bunyan began to preach again, causing Charles II to retract his declaration and throw Bunyan into prison again.

Despite these circumstances, Bunyan was able to finish his masterpiece.

An uneducated, mentally anguished criminal wrote The Pilgrim’s Progress, the second-most translated book of all time behind the Bible.

Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you.

He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.

PSALM 55:22 NLT

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Bangladesh: Extremists attack believers during baptism Bangladesh, November 9, 2014 Faith Bible Church baptized 42 believers from Muslim backgrounds in Lalmonirhat, north Bangladesh. While the event was going on, at least 200 local Muslims attacked the new believers and pastors Salim Haidar and John Arif.

The Muslims called the police and had the Christians arrested. Charges were then filed against the two pastors. They were accused of converting Muslims by offering them money.

“The police detained the believers all night,” said a local Open Doors source. “The believers strongly denied the allegations.”

The believers were released the next morning, but the two pastors were kept in custody. They posted bail with the help of a lawyer, but it was denied. The first hearing is set for next Monday.

“The officer-in-charge said that he cannot release the pastors because of pressure from Islamic leaders,” added the same source.

Jesuit detained on trumped up rape charges Ranchi, December 1, 2014: Police detained a 60-year old Jesuit priestprincipal in Jharkhand last week on charges of rape based on the oral testimony of a girl student, but Jesuits say he is “an unjust victim of illegal detention.”

Father Soosai Nayagam, 60, of Dumka Raiganj Province “has become an unjust victim of illegal detention in jail,” said a press release from the Jesuits today.

According to the release last Monday the officer-in charge of Rajmahal police station Umesh Ram arrested Fr. Nayagam, principal of St. Berchmans Inter College, Mundli, Sahibganj.

It was based on the oral testimony of a 19 year girl student of the college. The officer recorded the priest’s crime as rape under a section of the Sc/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act and forwarded

the priest to the court.

This was based on the oral testimony, recorded but unsigned by the girl, the magistrate ordered the detention of the priest for 14 days.

The arrest took place in dramatic circumstances, the release said adding that it was the scheme of those who were unable to stomach the principal’s overdrive for strict discipline from students and teachers alike.

“Now it has come to light that the girl later made a statement before a judicial magistrate alleging that she was not sexually harassed by the Principal. Certified copies of all related documents, including the FIR, are in the possession of certain reliable sources,” said the release said.

The arrest leaves several questions unanswered, and the state has to answer them “in unmistakable terms,” the release said.

The Church is not a gallery for the exhibition of eminent Christians, but a school for the education of imperfect ones.

Henry Ward Beecher

Pope Francis prays in Turkey’s Mosque, head bowed toward Mecca Turkey, November 30, 2014: A day after calling for inter-religious dialogue to end Islamist extremism, Pope Francis on

Saturday visited a 17th-century mosque in Istanbul and spent several minutes in a silent prayer with his head bowed in the direction of Mecca.

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QUIZ–33 MORE KINGS, PHAROAHS, AND OTHER RULERS

The ABC of becoming a Christian

Aaredmitinthat you need of

someone to save you from guilt, shame and bondage or addictions.

Admit that you have violated God’s Laws.

Believe that Jesus Christ is

the only One who is able to save you and to bring deliverence and offer forgiveness of sins. Believe that Jesus is the only One to conquer death and is the risen Saviour.

C

onfess with your mouth that Jesus is your Lord and submit to His rulership in your life.

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1. Which Syrian King besieged Samaria, causing great famine that led to cannibalism?

2. Which King of Judah had to be hidden as a boy to protect him from the wrath of the wicked Queen Athaliah?

3. Which King of Israel made Elisha angry by not striking the ground enough with his arrows?

4. Which King of Judah was stricken with leprosy?

5. Which King of Israel had much of his territory taken away by the Assyrian king?

6. Which Assyrian King was killed by his sons while worshipping in the temple of his god Nisroch?

7. Which king of Syria joined the king of Israel in attacking Judah?

The pope made the gesture to promote Christian-Muslim relations at the Sultan Ahmet Mosque, known as the Blue Mosque, on Saturday, the second day of his three-day Turkey visit, according to the Vatican Radio.

He removed his shoes before entering the mosque with blue tiles on its walls. Standing next to him was the Grand Mufti, who explained about the Koranic verses illustrated on the stones pillars and the dome.

The pontiff also toured on Saturday the nearby Hagia Sophia, a Byzantine basilica which

8. Which cruel king lied to the wise men about his desire to worship infant Jesus?

9. Which King of Judah reigned for only two years and was murdered by his court officials?

10. Who had a dream about a statue composed of different materials?

Answers for Quiz - 32 1. Ai (Josh. 8: 3-29) 2. Antioch (Acts 13:14) 3. Beersheba 4. Bethlehem 5. Athens (Acts 17) 6. Colossae (Col. 4:9) 7. Joppa (Jonah 1:3) 8. Gaza (Amos 1:6-7) 9. Gibeon (I Kings 3:5-15) 10. Philadelphia (Rev. 3:7-13) was turned into a mosque after the fall of Constantinople in the mid-15th century before being transformed into a museum.

The ISIS, an al-Qaeda offshoot, seeks to form an Islamic emirate in the Levant region through “jihad.” In Iraq, ISIS men have killed hundreds of civilians. Numerous members of the Christian and Yazidi minorities have also been killed, and tens of thousands of them have fled their homes. About 5,000 Yazidi girls and women were recently taken captive by ISIS to be sold or given to fighters as slaves.

CSF: Afghan believer in Delhi set free.

PAD building targeted in Afghan New Delhi, November 25, 2014: The Afghan believers had some good news as one of the three brothers (Hasibullah) was released from jail on the night of 25th November 2014 and they strive for the release of the other two brothers. They have thanked The CSF for their prayers and support.

The Afghan refugee believers in the national capital said they also received with sorrow and pain, news that extremists targeted the PAD Office, where believers used to worship on Fridays and Saturdays. There was also a seminary in this building and a brother who was the Director of

the PAD organization was also living there.

While the worship was going on in the building, the suicide attackers attacked the building and as the result of this attack brothers Werner and Zabi were killed and some other believers were injured.

There is no news about brother Werner’s son and daughter as they were also at the building at the time. His wife was out as she is a doctor and works in one of the hospitals.

Some of the injured believers who were spoken to, said the attackers shot all of them but the Lord saved a few. Please keep the prayers going.

Dear Friend, Brutal, tyrannical, extravagant, persecutor, murderer, cruel, opportunistic…

These are just a few of the words that describe the Roman emperor, Nero. Roman historian, Suetonius, said that Nero “showed neither discrimination nor moderation in putting to death whomsoever he pleased.” He killed his own mother and other relatives, and kicked his pregnant lover to death.

The India Pentecostal Church of God UK - Ireland Region

7th ANNUAL CONVENTION th st (30 May - 1 June, 2014)

Still, Paul urges Timothy to offer “entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings…on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.”

The Bible was written by people who lived in times when the government was not friendly to the people of God. Yet Jesus says to “render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s.”

Paul had a clear sense of God’s sovereignty over both church and state. He did not regard God as part of one realm and human institutions as part of another. All rulers, he said, are in power because God ordained them.

In spite of the horrible tyranny of Roman emperors (Nero put Paul and many other Christians to death), the general peace made it possible for the gospel to spread rapidly through the Empire. The very regime so fiercely devoted to emperor worship became the catalyst for the proclamation of the gospel. A wicked government may have twisted aims, but God uses its dysfunctional rulers to accomplish His higher purposes.

Why does God appoint rulers like Nero, Herod, Pontius Pilate and Hitler to serve as rulers? We cannot know the full mind of God on these matters, but we can say this:

•

God has the long term in mind; though the short term looks bad to us, it always serves His larger purpose and works for ultimate good.

Rev. Dr. T. Valson Abraham preaching at the 2014 IPC UK-Ireland Annual Convention in Derby, UK

• God’s ultimate aim is to complete the Great Commission and glorify Himself.

• God uses rulers to discipline His people and bring them out of complacency and ingratitude to depend upon Him.

• God demonstrates through wicked rulers that He is not limited by human wickedness in accomplishing His greater good.

• Bad rulers have a way of deepening our faith in God so that we call upon Him to work in marvelous ways.

• Bad rulers move us to pray better prayers, develop more godly voting standards, and seek more godly ways of

Pastor C. T. Abraham - secretary of the region, conducting the Communion service

persuasion and action to influence political leaders.

Whenever we fail to pray for our leaders, regardless of their political persuasion, we sin against God. Evangelist Billy Graham has met privately with all kinds of political leaders. He says, “We sometimes forget that some of the loneliest people in the world are those who are constantly in the public eye. They have spiritual needs just like everyone else. I have found many world leaders who sense that our problems today are so complex as to defy [human] solution. They know that the only answer is to be found in God.” We often forget that the halls of government are also mission fields for the gospel.

We have had many opportunities to befriend numerous political leaders- not all of them Christian- who regularly come asking prayer for help with the deep burdens they carry.

Both church and state are God’s avenues to do His will. Let our prayers for our leaders come out of the abundance of our certainty in God and our own daily dialogue with Him so that we might prepare the way for completion of the Great Commission.

Blessings to you for the New Year, Rev. Dr. T. Valson Abraham Believers engaged in worship

Pastor Philip P. Thomas - secretary of IPC Kerala State

Pastor Jacob George - president of the UK-Ireland Region

News paper Reg. No. KERENG/2007/22479

REVIVE (ENGLISH)

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Date of Publication : 01/01/2015

INDIA BIBLE COLLEGE & SEMINARY

Trains dedicated men & women to fulfill the Great Commission of Jesus Christ

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Vol. 08, Issue No. 1 & 2

January / February 2015

Hebron, Kumbanad, Kerala

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Three year Program for secular degree holders.

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Three year program in malayalam for those with S.S.L.C pass certificate or the equivalent.

For more details contact Dean of Admissions, India Bible College & Seminary Hebron, Kumbanad Kerala - 689 547 India Tel : 0469-3051700 0469-2664075,2665855 Fax: 0469-2663919 E-mail : igotoibc@gmail.com Web : www.ibc.ac.in

Dip. Th (2years) English Medium Qualification: 10th pass or it’s equivalent

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