Church and State

A.  We live in a very narcissistic society, where a larger number are playing by different social rules.  One side believes the rules of society don’t apply to them because they are better, smarter, richer, G-ds choosen, more connected, etc; and the other side believes the rules don’t apply to them because identity politics tells them they are a victim of oppression.  Everyone playing by the same rules leads to greater social capital and cooperation. 

1. Let’s lay down the rules of social order (virtue)

2. Let’s keep them (personal responsibility)

3. Let’s all play the same game. (few exceptions)

4. Let’s reinforce that social order through our support of positive art and media that reinforces the rules instead of undermines them. 

B.  Capitalism vs. Marxism is a false dichotomy.  The rich do have a duty to help the poor or underprivileged.  The real question is whether it’s the government’s or religion’s job to administer social justice.  According to James 1:27, the job of social justice is religion and this is because government can’t legislate/mandate positive behavior (accountability).  Government can tax and redistribute, but they can’t rehabilitate.  Consequently, government entitlements make people entitled and enable the poor to stay poor.   I believe in a separation of Church and State, and the Stare needs to get out of the business of religion.  Religion needs to start doing its job (welfare and virtue). 

Only religion can mandate positive behavior (the government shouldn’t require people buy and eat broccoli).  But this may be the whole point and aim to get us to that point.   Government protects by punishing harmful behavior.  But more and more, government is beginning to punish what it determines to be lack of performing beneficial behavior.  Dictating behavior and enforcing behavior/practice through penalty = fascism. 

1. Obamacare mandates purchase of health insurance and fines lack of purchase.

2. MIPS: fines doctors 10% if they depart from practice guidelines. 

3. Canada tried to fine people who failed to use gender neutral pronouns.