The recent riots in Kenya is another example of the weakness of governments in Africa. The failure of governments in Africa regularly make the news. Whether it is corruption, neglect, incompetence, or outright scandal, Africans long for better governments. But what makes for good government, according to Scripture?

Government is meant to serve the good of its people. As Romans 13:4 puts it, “The civil authority is God’s servant for your good.” But what does this actually look like? What should government protect and promote, and what principles should guide its structure?

The Role of Government in Protection

At its core, government exists to protect its citizens. The Bible outlines several key areas where this protection is essential:

1. Protection against crime:
   Governments are called to prevent and punish wrongdoing. First Peter 2:14 says rulers are “sent by God to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right.” A society that does not address crime creates an environment of fear and instability.
2. Protection against disease:
   Disease can devastate a nation’s productivity and economy. While ancient texts don’t discuss modern health systems, the principle of caring for the community applies. Addressing public health is part of a government’s responsibility.
3. Protection against violations of contracts:
   Trust is essential in any society. Contracts, whether business or personal, must be honored. Exodus 20:15-16’s command not to steal or bear false witness highlights the importance of honesty, a principle upheld by fair legal systems.
4. Protection of intellectual property:
   While modern patents and copyrights didn’t exist in biblical times, Exodus 20:15’s command against theft still applies. A society that does not protect intellectual property discourages innovation and fairness.
5. Protection against foreign invasion:
   Throughout the Bible, Israel faced attacks from enemies. Their victories often came when they sought God’s guidance and maintained justice. Today, national defense is a vital part of ensuring peace and stability.
6. Avoidance of wars of conquest and civil wars:
   Peaceful governance prevents unnecessary wars and internal strife, fostering stability and prosperity.
7. Protection of the environment:
   The Bible calls humanity to be good stewards of creation (Genesis 1:28; Psalm 8). Governments play a role in protecting natural resources and promoting sustainable practices for the good of the country.

What Should Government Promote?

Beyond protection, governments can encourage things that lead to a stable and prosperous society. The Bible doesn’t mandate these, but they align with its values:

1. Universal education:
   Education helps people develop skills and opportunities. While parents bear the primary responsibility for training their children (Deuteronomy 6:5-7), governments can support literacy programs and vocational training.
2. Stable family structures:
   Strong families are the building blocks of a stable society. Governments can create policies that encourage marriage and responsible parenting, reducing poverty and promoting well-being.
3. Freedom of religion:
   Religious freedom benefits society by fostering moral values and encouraging economic productivity. Denying this freedom, as seen in restrictive regimes, often harms both individuals and nations.

Governments take many forms: monarchy, oligarchy, democracy, and autocracy. The Bible doesn’t prescribe one system but acknowledges the realities of human fallenness and the need for accountability. Let’s explore some principles for good governance:

1. Rule of law:
   Leaders and citizens alike must be accountable to the same laws. This ensures fairness and prevents tyranny, as illustrated in the story of David being confronted by Nathan for his sins (2 Samuel 11-12).
2. Fair courts:
   Courts should enforce justice without bias. Deuteronomy 16:18-20 emphasizes the importance of impartial judges who do not pervert justice or accept bribes.
3. Integrity in leadership:
   Bribery and corruption erode trust in government. Numerous scriptures warn against these practices (Exodus 23:8; Proverbs 17:23), highlighting the need for honest leadership.
4. Balanced power:
   Governments need enough power to maintain order but not so much that they oppress their people. Judges 17-21 shows the chaos of anarchy, while unchecked kings like Solomon abused their power (1 Kings 11:3-4). A balance is key.
5. Separation of powers:
   The Bible offers examples of shared leadership, from the 12 apostles to elders in local churches. Dividing responsibilities prevents the concentration of power and encourages accountability.
6. Government accountability:
   Leaders must answer to the people they govern. Regular elections, transparency, and term limits are practical ways to ensure this. Scriptural examples, such as Moses consulting the elders (Exodus 4:29-31), show the value of leadership with consent.

The Ultimate Government

Finally, it’s important to remember that no earthly government will ever be perfect. Humanity’s fallenness guarantees that every system will have flaws. The only truly just government will be the theocracy under Christ, as Revelation promises. Until then, our responsibility is to pursue the best systems possible—ones that promote justice, protect the vulnerable, and allow people to flourish.