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Crucial Questions #19
¿Cuál es la relación entre la iglesia y el estado?
Desde los comienzos del cristianismo, la relación entre la iglesia y el estado ha sido un tema de gran preocupación. El tema aún es confuso y contencioso para muchos cristianos hoy, así como los temas de activismo político, libertad de religión, y desobediencia civil confrontan a aquellos que buscan entender esta relación crucial. En este libro, el Dr. R.C Sproul examina esta relación mirando la naturaleza y misión del gobierno, cómo los cristianos deberían ver y relacionarse con su gobierno, la legitimidad de las iglesias establecidas por el estado, cómo manejar los abusos de poder, y la legitimación de la desobediencia civil.
32 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2014
349 people are currently reading
829 people want to read
About the author
R.C. Sproul
675 books1,973 followersDr. R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was founder of Ligonier Ministries, an international Christian discipleship organization located near Orlando, Fla. He was founding pastor of Saint Andrew’s Chapel in Sanford, Fla., first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine.
Ligonier Ministries began in 1971 as the Ligonier Valley Study Center in Ligonier, Pa. In an effort to respond more effectively to the growing demand for Dr. Sproul’s teachings and the ministry’s other educational resources, the general offices were moved to Orlando in 1984, and the ministry was renamed.
Dr. Sproul’s radio program, Renewing Your Mind, is still broadcast daily on hundreds of radio stations around the world and can also be heard online. Dr. Sproul produced hundreds of lecture series and recorded numerous video series on subjects such as the history of philosophy, theology, Bible study, apologetics, and Christian living.
He contributed dozens of articles to national evangelical publications, spoke at conferences, churches, and academic institutions around the world, and wrote more than one hundred books, including The Holiness of God, Chosen by God, and Everyone’s a Theologian. He signed the 1978 Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy and wrote a commentary on that document. He also served as general editor of the Reformation Study Bible, previously known as the New Geneva Study Bible.
Dr. Sproul had a distinguished academic teaching career at various colleges and seminaries, including Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando and Jackson, Miss. He was ordained as a teaching elder in the Presbyterian Church in America.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
March 19, 2025
Reading in Spanish is hard. Reading theology in Spanish is even harder. No wonder it took me almost a year to get through it
February 28, 2022
Very relevant to the current events we're witnessing. Very short. God's answers!
October 22, 2025
“God has established two realms on earth: the church and the state. Each one has its own sphere of authority, and neither is to infringe on the rights of the other. And as Christians, we are to show great respect and concern for them both.” Excerpt From What Is the Relationship between Church and State? R.C. Sproul
It’s definitely a solid book. Solid theology that is supported by scripture and uses a lot of real world examples to support its belief. Only wish is that with some of the more modern examples that are debated currently he provided the scriptural evidence of those beliefs. It might have doubled the length of the book, however, I think it is important to provide why this evidence matters in regards to scripture. Ultimately I agreed with the evidence he is presenting, but in case someone who does not agree with him picked up this book I wish he defended the position. Another solid read though by Sproul, not sure who I’d recommend this one too though. By nature it is very specific to the issue of Church and State that has been debated since the establishment of the Church and even before that with the establishment of the priests and judges of Israel.
It’s definitely a solid book. Solid theology that is supported by scripture and uses a lot of real world examples to support its belief. Only wish is that with some of the more modern examples that are debated currently he provided the scriptural evidence of those beliefs. It might have doubled the length of the book, however, I think it is important to provide why this evidence matters in regards to scripture. Ultimately I agreed with the evidence he is presenting, but in case someone who does not agree with him picked up this book I wish he defended the position. Another solid read though by Sproul, not sure who I’d recommend this one too though. By nature it is very specific to the issue of Church and State that has been debated since the establishment of the Church and even before that with the establishment of the priests and judges of Israel.
July 28, 2020
Very clear and useful.
Just has a historical error on p. 30 of my edition (Sproul writes that Henry VIII gave himself the title "defensor fide" when he became protestant. Actually the Pope gave him this title in 1521 in recompense for a book Henry wrote against Luther and the protestants)
Just has a historical error on p. 30 of my edition (Sproul writes that Henry VIII gave himself the title "defensor fide" when he became protestant. Actually the Pope gave him this title in 1521 in recompense for a book Henry wrote against Luther and the protestants)
April 27, 2021
Right now with COVID in the states and elsewhere in the world, I’ve been curious about what it means to obey the government, and when should we disobey (if at all). This little booklet answered my question, and I greatly appreciate how easily the topic is broken down. Quick read and easy to read. Highly recommend!
February 24, 2020
Dr Sproul apresenta de forma simples e objetiva uma boa introdução sobre a relação entre a igreja e os estado. O livro mostra que o Senhor Deus concedeu as "chaves" a igreja e a "espada" ao estado e como devemos compreender onde essas instituições devem atuar e quais são os limites de ação de cada uma. Recomendo a leitura.
June 29, 2015
Boa introdução ao assunto. Especialmente interessante o capítulo sobre a religião estabelecida.
January 21, 2025
R.C. Sproul, a masterful communicator of Reformed theology, tackles the intricate relationship between church and state in this concise and thought-provoking booklet. Drawing from a biblical worldview, Sproul unpacks the biblical foundation of governance and explores how believers should engage with civil authorities while maintaining fidelity to the Kingdom of God.
Strengths:
1. Clarity and Accessibility: As expected from Sproul, the writing is accessible without sacrificing theological depth. He skillfully navigates complex issues in a way that both scholars and laypeople can appreciate.
2. Biblical Foundations: Sproul's exposition of Romans 13 is particularly strong, emphasizing the divine origin of government and its role as a servant of God for justice. He provides a robust framework for understanding submission to authorities while recognizing the limits of that submission when obedience to God is at stake.
3. Historical Context: The inclusion of references to key historical events, such as the Reformation and examples of civil disobedience, adds richness and practical application to his arguments.
4. Balanced Perspective: Sproul avoids the extremes of either blind allegiance to the state or total withdrawal from public life. He thoughtfully calls Christians to honor God by respecting civil authorities, yet he underscores the primacy of God's law.
Weaknesses:
1. Lack of Depth on Practical Application: While the theological principles are well-articulated, the booklet could benefit from more guidance on how Christians should navigate specific contemporary issues, such as religious liberty or ethical dilemmas in politics.
2. Brief Format: At under 100 pages, the work feels too brief for such a nuanced topic. Readers may find themselves wanting more exploration of certain areas, such as the tension between church and state in pluralistic societies.
Conclusion:
“What Is the Relationship Between Church and State?” is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the biblical principles governing the interaction between these two God-ordained institutions. While it is not exhaustive, it serves as an excellent starting point for further reflection and discussion. Sproul's theological insight is unmatched, though a more robust engagement with modern-day implications would have made this work even stronger.
Recommendation: Highly recommended for those interested in Reformed theology and its application to civil life, though readers desiring more in-depth practical guidance may need supplementary resources.
Strengths:
1. Clarity and Accessibility: As expected from Sproul, the writing is accessible without sacrificing theological depth. He skillfully navigates complex issues in a way that both scholars and laypeople can appreciate.
2. Biblical Foundations: Sproul's exposition of Romans 13 is particularly strong, emphasizing the divine origin of government and its role as a servant of God for justice. He provides a robust framework for understanding submission to authorities while recognizing the limits of that submission when obedience to God is at stake.
3. Historical Context: The inclusion of references to key historical events, such as the Reformation and examples of civil disobedience, adds richness and practical application to his arguments.
4. Balanced Perspective: Sproul avoids the extremes of either blind allegiance to the state or total withdrawal from public life. He thoughtfully calls Christians to honor God by respecting civil authorities, yet he underscores the primacy of God's law.
Weaknesses:
1. Lack of Depth on Practical Application: While the theological principles are well-articulated, the booklet could benefit from more guidance on how Christians should navigate specific contemporary issues, such as religious liberty or ethical dilemmas in politics.
2. Brief Format: At under 100 pages, the work feels too brief for such a nuanced topic. Readers may find themselves wanting more exploration of certain areas, such as the tension between church and state in pluralistic societies.
Conclusion:
“What Is the Relationship Between Church and State?” is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the biblical principles governing the interaction between these two God-ordained institutions. While it is not exhaustive, it serves as an excellent starting point for further reflection and discussion. Sproul's theological insight is unmatched, though a more robust engagement with modern-day implications would have made this work even stronger.
Recommendation: Highly recommended for those interested in Reformed theology and its application to civil life, though readers desiring more in-depth practical guidance may need supplementary resources.
April 19, 2018
First sentence: A few years ago, I was invited to be the keynote speaker at the inaugural prayer breakfast for the governor of Florida.
R.C. Sproul examines an important, ever-relevant question in this booklet. The question? What is the Relationship Between Church and State? Other questions posed and answered include: what is government? where does government get its authority? what is the church? where does the church get its authority? are the purposes of the government and church the same or different? where did the phrase 'separation of church and state' originate? what did the phrase mean originally? how has the meaning changed through the centuries? what is religious freedom and why is it important? Not all questions receive equal treatment. It is a very short booklet, after all. But it is a thought-provoking one.
I would recommend this one!
R.C. Sproul examines an important, ever-relevant question in this booklet. The question? What is the Relationship Between Church and State? Other questions posed and answered include: what is government? where does government get its authority? what is the church? where does the church get its authority? are the purposes of the government and church the same or different? where did the phrase 'separation of church and state' originate? what did the phrase mean originally? how has the meaning changed through the centuries? what is religious freedom and why is it important? Not all questions receive equal treatment. It is a very short booklet, after all. But it is a thought-provoking one.
I would recommend this one!
March 12, 2021
A great, short, simple, concise and easy to understand book. Most Christians including myself have a low understanding of Church doctrine and the role of government, RC Sproul does a great job explaining it. I think especially in these uncertain and difficult times where people have been confused over the coronavirus restrictions, I think this book will help a lot of Christians clear up a lot of things.
June 1, 2021
Succinct, but more timely than ever. A lot of pastors would do well to read this book, especially in light of the recent pandemic and all the measures associated with it. Here's the final paragraph: "God has established two realms on earth: the church and the state. Each one has its own sphere of authority and neither is to infringe on the rights of the other. And as Christians, we are to show great respect and concern for them both" (p. 56).
October 22, 2019
A brief look at the Biblical purpose and role of government as it relates to the church and individuals. It starts with a very helpful look at the God-given authority of all governments. Then it moves on and discusses a Christian's responsibility to obey and disobey it all based on God's words.
I do not agree with his interpretation of Revelation, but as he only mentioned it in passing I can still recommend this book.
I do not agree with his interpretation of Revelation, but as he only mentioned it in passing I can still recommend this book.
June 4, 2022
READ THIS. It blew my mind up - metaphorically, that is, haha. Especially the realization while reading Chapter 4 that God used the Tudors as a domino to set a whole bunch of events in place that led to the USA's existence.
(The Kindle version is free on Amazon btw)
(The Kindle version is free on Amazon btw)
October 4, 2025
Clear and lucid. I wish the section on civil disobedience was much more fleshed out, but the author leaves room for it to be worked out in practice. Instead, he rightly focuses on the clear Scriptural emphasis on civil obedience and Christian respect for the state.
July 25, 2022
Very helpful and clear. A quick read or quick audiobook that I would definitely recommend to all.
Especially relevant to us today.
Especially relevant to us today.
October 13, 2020
A quick primer on the topic. I found it helpful in thinking about this topic. I sure do miss RC Sproul!
January 9, 2018
This is a very hard subject to talk about, but R.C. Sproul handles it in a way which is centered solely on the teachings of the Bible and not the patriotic passions which often taint this discussion.
June 19, 2022
A clear and concise treatment of the issue at hand.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2020
I began this short book by R C Sproul's reading his description of "separation of church and state." He claims this is a "mythical" concept. In doing so, he claims this is the idea that governments are not accountable to God. This is not a good understanding of this concept. Later, Sproul goes on to contradict himself when he describes the foundation and roles of the state and government, concluding the book as follows,
"God has established two realms on earth: the church and the state. Each one has its own sphere of authority, and neither is to infringe on the rights of the other."
This statement, and others he makes throughout the book, supports the idea of a separation of church and state. Yet, he began the book saying this was a mythical concept. He would have made a stronger argument if he stated that while all governments are accountable to God, separation of church and state concerns the roles of both in a civil society.
Even so, the book contains some very good principles about governments and a Christian's duty to obey civil authorities unless such authorities order people to do things prohibited by God. However, Sproul also misinterprets Augustine's view of government (I presume Sproul was referring to Augustine's work, The City of God), saying it is a necessary evil. In reading Augstine's work, I would not use this phrase to describe his views on government unless one believes all human endeavors are necessary evils (i.e. all human activity falls short of the glory of God, including church administration).
Likewise, Sproul does not sufficiently deal with the problem of human evil in churches, which a key reason for a separation of church and state. That is, if governments can become evil, so can human based religion, including churches (see the book of Revelation chapters 2 -3, for examples). Sproul does not sufficiently distinguish the spiritual Church from human based institutional churches in this book.
Finally, Sproul does not sufficiently deal with an issue Christians must face in civil societies: what to do with nonbelievers? A characteristic of a civil society is that people are not forced to be members of a religion (something Spoul agrees with in this book), or forced to make allegiances or statements of faith that go against a person's conscience. Sproul correctly states that the right to use force is restricted to the state, but is limited in its scope. Sproul does not adequately deal with the conclusion that civil societies are likely to be made up of individuals who are not Christians. This is important because a church is also limited in what it can do to propagate the Gospel of Jesus Christ such that human institutions cannot use force to propagate the Gospel (again, something with which Sproul agrees). Therefore, all individuals, regardless of their faith or not having a religious faith, must have their civil rights and liberties protected by the government. This means that a civil government must have limits on what it can force people to do, and likewise, churches also have limits on what they can do in a civil society to propagate their faith.
A better book to read about church and state is John Locke's short work, A Letter Concerning Toleration. It is a more thorough look into the roles of religion and state, as well as the limitations on what religions can be tolerated in a civil society.
"God has established two realms on earth: the church and the state. Each one has its own sphere of authority, and neither is to infringe on the rights of the other."
This statement, and others he makes throughout the book, supports the idea of a separation of church and state. Yet, he began the book saying this was a mythical concept. He would have made a stronger argument if he stated that while all governments are accountable to God, separation of church and state concerns the roles of both in a civil society.
Even so, the book contains some very good principles about governments and a Christian's duty to obey civil authorities unless such authorities order people to do things prohibited by God. However, Sproul also misinterprets Augustine's view of government (I presume Sproul was referring to Augustine's work, The City of God), saying it is a necessary evil. In reading Augstine's work, I would not use this phrase to describe his views on government unless one believes all human endeavors are necessary evils (i.e. all human activity falls short of the glory of God, including church administration).
Likewise, Sproul does not sufficiently deal with the problem of human evil in churches, which a key reason for a separation of church and state. That is, if governments can become evil, so can human based religion, including churches (see the book of Revelation chapters 2 -3, for examples). Sproul does not sufficiently distinguish the spiritual Church from human based institutional churches in this book.
Finally, Sproul does not sufficiently deal with an issue Christians must face in civil societies: what to do with nonbelievers? A characteristic of a civil society is that people are not forced to be members of a religion (something Spoul agrees with in this book), or forced to make allegiances or statements of faith that go against a person's conscience. Sproul correctly states that the right to use force is restricted to the state, but is limited in its scope. Sproul does not adequately deal with the conclusion that civil societies are likely to be made up of individuals who are not Christians. This is important because a church is also limited in what it can do to propagate the Gospel of Jesus Christ such that human institutions cannot use force to propagate the Gospel (again, something with which Sproul agrees). Therefore, all individuals, regardless of their faith or not having a religious faith, must have their civil rights and liberties protected by the government. This means that a civil government must have limits on what it can force people to do, and likewise, churches also have limits on what they can do in a civil society to propagate their faith.
A better book to read about church and state is John Locke's short work, A Letter Concerning Toleration. It is a more thorough look into the roles of religion and state, as well as the limitations on what religions can be tolerated in a civil society.
October 3, 2020
Often, when I hear about a new law that has just been passed, I think about how it will directly impact me. Sometimes I conclude that the legislators didn’t go far enough, but other times I feel they are overreaching into areas that they have no business legislating.
In his book What is the Relationship Between Church and State R C Sproul, helps Christians understand the role of government in our lives & how we should act/interact with our leaders.
Romans 13:1-7 (NIV) says “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.”
On this premise, let’s move forward with Sproul’s narrative. The topics discussed are:
1) Legal Force
2) Civil Obedience
3) The Sword and the Keys
4) Established Religion
5) An Instrument of Evil
6) Civil Disobedience
The principles set forth here can be a guide before, during & after this current election cycle is complete.
NOTE: This pocket-sized volume is book number nineteen in Sproul’s “Crucial Questions” series
#BGBG2 #BIBLEGATEWAYPARTNER #CRUCIALQUESTIONSNO19
https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/blo...
In his book What is the Relationship Between Church and State R C Sproul, helps Christians understand the role of government in our lives & how we should act/interact with our leaders.
Romans 13:1-7 (NIV) says “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.”
On this premise, let’s move forward with Sproul’s narrative. The topics discussed are:
1) Legal Force
2) Civil Obedience
3) The Sword and the Keys
4) Established Religion
5) An Instrument of Evil
6) Civil Disobedience
The principles set forth here can be a guide before, during & after this current election cycle is complete.
NOTE: This pocket-sized volume is book number nineteen in Sproul’s “Crucial Questions” series
#BGBG2 #BIBLEGATEWAYPARTNER #CRUCIALQUESTIONSNO19
https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/blo...
January 10, 2023
En Chile hace unas semanas el actual presidente Gabriel Boric indulto a criminales sentenciados y desde ese momento capturo mi atención la idea de la relación entre iglesia y estado... pues ante tal acción no estoy de acuerdo, pero me era necesario fundamentar bíblicamente nuestra posición ante este asunto. Así que comencé con este pequeño libro, aunque alejado de nuestra realidad latinoamericana, su desarrollo es impecable y clarificador debido a que la iglesia representa un tipo de autoridad de Dios ante el mundo, y el gobierno ya sea cristiano o secular, también representa la autoridad de Dios ante el mundo y la iglesia, tanto gobierno u estado e iglesia se manejan en dos esferas diferentes estas conviven y debiesen respetarse mutuamente, no estar aisladas una de la otra...
November 5, 2021
Aspectos generales entre la Iglesia y el Estado.
Condensado muy enriquecedor sobre la relación entre la Iglesia y el Estado. Cómo hijos de la luz debemos formentar el orden, respeto y obediencia por las autoridades ( siempre y cuando dicha obediencia no maltrate la autoridad superior desplegada por el ETERNO).
La iglesia está para velar el buen desempeño en defensa de la vida de sus ciudadanos.
Condensado muy enriquecedor sobre la relación entre la Iglesia y el Estado. Cómo hijos de la luz debemos formentar el orden, respeto y obediencia por las autoridades ( siempre y cuando dicha obediencia no maltrate la autoridad superior desplegada por el ETERNO).
La iglesia está para velar el buen desempeño en defensa de la vida de sus ciudadanos.
April 8, 2022
Quero dizer que isto é opinião minha, e a nota deste livro é sobre esta opinião, eu não gostei certas partes apenas pq eu não concordo com uma grande maioria que esta em pauta aí, mas o livro serve para aquilo que foi criado, ele fala de uma maneira muito fácil de entender, e traz passagens bíblicas para dar mais credibilidade à sua tese, tlvz pra alguém faça todo sentido e concorde com ele, mas para mim não
April 19, 2023
As great as my respect is for Sproul, I don't believe that this short book is particularly helpful. I'm sure that his perspective is more nuanced than he had time to get into in this book, but it's so brief and simple that it actually becomes unhelpful. I don't believe he did a great job exploring the intricate complexities of the issue of church and state, and left a couple statements out there that left me frustrated and feeling like he didn't understand the depth of the topic.
October 5, 2017
Concise Biblical Statement
This book is a good overall summary of several guiding principles in a Biblical and Christian understanding regarding the relationships between God, Human Government, and the Christian
This is a good summary of the Christian's obligation as it relates to the church, human, government and the Lord himself.
This book is a good overall summary of several guiding principles in a Biblical and Christian understanding regarding the relationships between God, Human Government, and the Christian
This is a good summary of the Christian's obligation as it relates to the church, human, government and the Lord himself.
February 13, 2018
R. C. Sproul has written an incredible series of small books that introduce you to really hard questions. This is not an extensive overview of the issue in the slightest, but it is a very helpful introduction to the topic that all people can understand and learn from. IT'S ALSO FREE if you get it as an ebook. This is worth your time!
September 22, 2018
Augustine believed that the state was an evil, but a necessary evil that is used to constrain the evil of people. Any law inhibits freedom. When we ask the government to make abortion illegal, we are not asking the state to be Christian; we are asking the state to be the state; The state exists to constrain evil and promote life.
September 24, 2018
Very good!
This book is a good book explaining why we have the separation between church and state. I do believe that even though the church is not the government, the church should influence the government to a certain degree. Even though the book is heavy, it is logical and packed with practical applications. Well-done!
This book is a good book explaining why we have the separation between church and state. I do believe that even though the church is not the government, the church should influence the government to a certain degree. Even though the book is heavy, it is logical and packed with practical applications. Well-done!
January 3, 2021
I thought I would disagree with R.C. more than I did. The first two chapters came off a bit too duteous, deferential, and patriotic for my taste. R.C. does a good analysis of Romans 13. Though I wish he cast a wider net of scripture and how God's people related to various governments. I think this book is a good conversation starter for the church to consider it's entanglement with the State.
June 21, 2021
Who do we obey ?
Dr. Sproul discussed a difficult subject for some Christian s to answer . The apostle seems to put us in a difficult position When he declares that we must submit to uthorities as God set them to rule. However, Dr. Sproul clarifies this seeming dilemma .
In our times of social conflict this is a good book to read.
Dr. Sproul discussed a difficult subject for some Christian s to answer . The apostle seems to put us in a difficult position When he declares that we must submit to uthorities as God set them to rule. However, Dr. Sproul clarifies this seeming dilemma .
In our times of social conflict this is a good book to read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews