The Christian and Human Institutions     
 

by Marc W. Gibson

 

Human institutions are all around us, and for good reason – we need them. We need schools, hospitals, banks, libraries, restaurants, gas stations, supermarkets, etc. These are human institutions because they are founded, operated, and overseen by men. This is different than the institutions of marriage and the church, which are divine institutions founded and overseen by God. As human beings in this physical world, we use various human institutions for various reasons, and this is proper, as long as the institution does not involve one in sin (such as a strip club, casino, nightclub, etc.). We may pay for necessary services from, donate our time and/or money to, or work in such institutions. While all this is true, there are two cautions for Christians that need to be remembered. First, we must be careful not to tie the church to any human institution that would compromise the authorized divinely-revealed work that God gave the church to do. On the one hand, the church may pay for services from human institutions to provide a place for worship (rent, bank loan, electric company, insurance), spread the gospel message (printing service, newspaper column), or provide benevolent help to needy saints (food, doctor bill, etc.). On the other hand, the church has no authority to build and maintain a hospital, restaurant, college, or sports arena. As individuals we can own and donate to these things, but the church is not to own or support human institutions. It is without divine authority. Secondly, while individual Christians can be involved in establishing and maintaining a publishing company, religious journal, or college, these institutions are human, not divine. A college geared toward a “Christian” atmosphere and faculty is still not the church. But those involved will often defend it from criticism at all costs. Religious colleges and papers can support error and those who teach error. If I am employed or an alumni of a college, or write for a paper, will I defend “my” institution from criticism instead of defending the truth? Personally, I prefer to keep my distance from such ties, lest I forget my true allegiance. Think on these things!          Other Articles Dealing With Others Paul and Sosthenes The First Beatitude in Psalms How Long? Conversation Control There Is A Higher Standard Reactionary Apostasy God Said Sing Why I Pray     For Past Auburn Beacons go to: www.aubeacon.com/Bulletins.htm   Anyone can join the mailing list for the Auburn Beacon! Send your request to: larryrouse@aubeacon.com