Belgic Confession, Article 36: The Civil Government
Article 36 of the Belgic Confession presents the Reformed doctrine of civil government, grounding legitimate authority in God's sovereignty and human depravity while establishing the government's duty to uphold justice, protect the gospel, and restrain lawlessness. This foundational confessional text articulates the proper relationship between church and state, defining the limits and responsibilities of civil rulers subject to God's law. Essential reading for understanding Reformed ecclesiology, the doctrine of providence, and the Christian's obligations toward civil authority.
Article 36: The Civil Government We believe that because of the depravity of the human race, our good God has ordained kings, princes, and civil officers. God wants the world to be governed by laws and policies so that human lawlessness may be restrained and that everything may be conducted in good order among human beings.For that purpose God has placed the sword in the hands of the government, to punish evil people and protect the good.[RCA only* And the government’s task is not limited to...