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Worldview and Government
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The solution to all of man's problems begins incrementally when each called-out person turns his life around, governing himself rightly by yielding to God.
The Chemistry of Government
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe principles of governance are deeply intertwined with the responsibilities of childrearing, as both involve similar foundational concepts of management and regulation. Governance, whether in a family or a state, is about the authoritative direction and regulation of a community. In the family, parents act as governors, serving as a regulating force to guide and manage the development of children, ensuring that they grow with a sense of responsibility toward God and community. Government is not a precise science like chemistry but involves elements that can be analyzed and understood. It consists of three main elements—reward, fear, and charisma—which can be applied individually or in combination, yielding various outcomes in governance. When used alone, the expectation of reward can lead to bribery, fostering a spoiled character in children and distorting their sense of fairness and duty. Governance by fear, while initially appearing stable, often breeds rebellion and resentment, proving highly volatile and explosive over time. Charisma, when misused, can become manipulation, exploiting others through attraction for selfish gain, and ultimately leading to betrayal and pain when the governed realize they have been used. Combining these elements offers potential for better governance. The blend of charisma and fear, akin to monarchy, can evoke loyalty and stability through attraction and the fear of disadvantage, yet it risks oppression and a lack of reward for the governed, often resulting in discontent. The combination of reward and fear, as seen in systems emphasizing material success, provides incentive but can erode spiritual values and family ties through self-interest and materialism. Charisma with reward, while fostering affection, may lack discipline, leading to rebellion if there is no fear of consequence. The most effective form of governance integrates all three elements—charisma, reward, and fear—in balanced measure. This approach, modeled after God's principles, uses the hope of reward and the fear of disadvantage judiciously, ensuring they inspire change and wisdom without overwhelming the governed. Charisma, rooted in a deep respect for the governor, flows from qualities like love, self-control, and balance, encouraging voluntary submission and loyalty. In a family, parents embody this charisma, standing as representatives of God to their children, guiding them through example and conscious effort to instill a profound sense of responsibility toward Him. This balanced governance, combining art and science, helps train children in the right path, preparing them for citizenship not only in earthly communities but ultimately in the Kingdom of God.
Don't Be a Politician
Sermon by Mike FordJesus proved that one cannot become a leader through political intrigue, but by assuming the position of a humble servant. God sets Himself against the proud.