Government(patriarchal government, sanhedrin)
Summary
The system of political authority and administration, which among the Hebrews progressed from patriarchal rule through theocratic judges to monarchy.
☩Patriarchal Government
The earliest form of government among the Israelites, as with all nations, was patriarchal. The heads of families exercised supreme authority over their households, children, and servants without accountability to any superior human power. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob governed their families, made treaties with kings as equals, and vindicated their rights by force when necessary.
☩Theocratic Period
After the exodus, Israel became a theocracy with God as the supreme ruler, His laws mediated through Moses. During the period of the judges, leadership arose as needed in times of crisis, with no permanent central authority beyond the priesthood and Mosaic law. This period was characterized by the refrain 'every man did that which was right in his own eyes.'
☩The Monarchy
Israel's request for a king like other nations represented a rejection of theocratic rule, though God permitted it and incorporated it into His purposes. The monarchy brought centralized authority, standing armies, and taxation, but also led to abuses and eventually the nation's division and exile.
☩Christian Teaching
The New Testament teaches that governmental authority comes from God, and citizens should obey laws and pay taxes. Christians cooperate with government in promoting peace and restraining evil while maintaining ultimate loyalty to God.
Related Verses219 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Government Of The Hebrews," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. III (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Government," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. II (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.Don Fleming, "Government," in Bridgeway Bible Dictionary (Bridgeway Publications, 1990).