Can we co-operate with the atheistical government?

[daego]

We got a news recently. The Red Cross of Shenzhen city, as an semiofficial branch of the Shenzhen government, calls 600 Christians to support its public donation activity on Oct 20th. The national church and the family churches are preparing for this activity.



It is the first time that the government allows the church to serve the society in the public. Many Christians welcome this activity while some say we cannot co-operate with the atheistical government since it is corrupted.



What do you think? How do you do in the public donation activity?

[HelenaZF]

I believe the scriptures are very clear that earthly governments operate by God's authority. We are told to obey the laws of the land to to honor the governments set over us. No distinction is made as to whether the government is corrupt or righteous, we are instructed to acknowledge their authority.



I believe that consequently, if the government provides an opportunity for the church to do ministry and service, that it is a "door" opened for the church. One that has been ultimately provided by God who holds the hearts of the kings in His hands.



That is an exciting thing that something like this would be facilitated through an atheistic government. Just because they do not acknowledge God, it does not mean that they cannot be moved by His hand. I think that if we could read the prayer logs of heaven, that we would find that there are saints who have been praying for something like this to happen in the land.

[DeanZF]

If the Red Cross in your country operates as it does in this country, it is primarily a good thing. Blessing something that is positive will bring life to those affected by the organization, yes? If your church and others can be part of that bringing of life, you can also be bringing the power of our God into an otherwise godless situation.



Scriptures tell us that we are to be salt and light in a godless society, yes? What better opportunity than to help those who are severely needy and to quietly speak words of life as you smile and comfort them in their time of need.



And if you bring the Peace that passes all understanding into the situation, isn't that a witness even to the leaders of the organization itself?