We believe . . .
The Lutheran Churches Of Calvary Grace believe that the church, the state, and all governmental authority, has been instituted by God. "The authorities that exist have been established by God" (Romans 13:1). Christians should therefore, obey the government that rules over them (Romans 13:5) unless that government commands them to disobey God (Acts 5:29).
The Lutheran Churches Of Calvary Grace believe that God has specified that the church and the state each have their own distinct responsibilities. To the church the Lord has assigned the accountability of calling sinners to repentance, of proclaiming forgiveness through the cross of Christ, and of heartening believers in their Christian living. The purpose is to lead the elect of God to eternal salvation through faith in Christ. To the state the Lord has assigned the duty of keeping good order and peace, of punishing the wrongdoer, and of arranging all civil matters in society (Romans 13:3,4). The purpose is "that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness" (1 Timothy 2:2).
The Lutheran Churches Of Calvary Grace believe that the only resources God has given to the church to carry out its assigned purpose are the Word and sacraments (Matthew 28:19,20). People are converted by the Holy Spirit only through the message of law and gospel, sin and grace, the wrath of God against sin and the mercy of God in Christ. We believe that the means given to the state to fulfill its obligation is civil law with its punishments and rewards, set up and used according to the light of reason (Romans 13:4). The light of reason includes the expected knowledge of God, the natural knowledge of the law, and conscience.
The Lutheran Churches Of Calvary Grace believe the proper relation is conserved between the church and the state only when each remains within its divinely assigned sphere and uses its divinely entrusted means. The church should not exercise civil influence nor obstruct the state as the state carries out its responsibilities. The state should not become a courier of the gospel nor impede the church in its preaching mission. The church should not attempt to use the civil law and force to lead people to Christ. The state should not seek to govern by means of the gospel. On the other hand, the church and the state may cooperate in an endeavor as long as each remains within its assigned place and uses its entrusted means.
The Lutheran Churches Of Calvary Grace believe that Christians are citizens of both realms and serve God by faithfully fulfilling their duties in both (Romans 13:6,7).
The Lutheran Churches Of Calvary Grace reject any attempt by the state or government to restrict the free exercise of religion.
The Lutheran Churches Of Calvary Grace reject any views that look to the church to guide and influence the state directly in the conduct of its affairs.
The Lutheran Churches Of Calvary Grace reject any attempt on the part of the church to seek the financial assistance of the state in carrying out its saving purpose.
The Lutheran Churches Of Calvary Grace reject any views that hold that citizens are free to defy such laws of the state with which they differ on the basis of personal judgment. This is what Scripture teaches about church and state. This we believe, teach, and confess.
