Because it is commanded:Valerie wrote:I might say to this then, are the prayers being heard of those who chose to pray only?Judas Maccabeus wrote:We all want good laws. But should we try to achieve this by mixing ourselves with the civil powers, or by praying for them. I will contend the latter may be the most effective. The former clearly does not work, and exposes the church to the influence of the civil authorities.Valerie wrote:
I agree with you for the most effective way to change a soul, one on one, evangelizing, discipleship etc- but I think that the application was not just for that period of time, I really don't believe that God wants ungodly rulers to make ungodly laws and to legalize what He calls sin. That is not at the heart of the God I know- now making things legal or illegal does not make one a Christian- but Jesus said whoever causes one of these little ones to stumble -
Matthew 18:6-7King James Version (KJV)
6 But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.
7 Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!
I am not suggesting that we should be all about expecting laws to make Christians- but I also do not agree with legalizing sin such as abortion and homosexuality-for example. These 'little ones' Jesus is speaking about not stumbling, may not be growing up in Christian environments and they are led to believe this sin is okay- they may be deep in sin, because it has become legal and therefore it must be alright- just sharing my thoughts on this- because I do feel the Church at large needs to be an influence here- MORE in the way you say, but not exclusively-
J.M.
The effectual fervent prayers of a righteous man, availeth much- (James 5:16)- I know that by our prayers and faith mingled with our prayers, can move mountains- so affecting the government by prayers alone, could accomplish much. But what do we see? Government getting more evil, making more evil laws, and affecting the morality of our land in general.
Is God listening to the prayers of those who contend to 'only' pray? If so, where is the evidence, if not- why not? Are they not fervent enough? After all the laws of the land, affect all- affect the children- who we care for- being affected.
Some might add faith without works is dead- i suppose i can admire those who contend for the faith and hope to affect the government to affect the laws of the land to align to good and not evil- (as Romans 13 points out the purpose for Gov't) and if everyone involved in government is a non believer, then they will not even know the difference between good and evil.
If, as you suggest, the 'former' does not work- how can you verify that 'praying only' works? Just pondering this-
1 Tim 2:1-3 I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior,
It works because doing God's will always "works." Maybe not as we define it.
J.M.