The Bible has a great deal to say about churches that are linked to worldly government.

The Bible has a great deal to say about churches that are linked to worldly government. In fact, many Bible passages serve as warnings against becoming entangled with the political powers of the world. In the New Testament, Paul’s letters to churches in cities like Corinth and Colossae contain specific instructions on how believers should interact with worldly rulers. Jesus himself gives several warnings about the church’s involvement in the world’s affairs. 

The book of Revelation specifically mentions churches that link to world governments in a negative light. Revelation 3:15-17 says, “I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth. For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked.” Most Bible scholars interpret this passage to be specifically warning churches against aligning themselves with the political rulers of their day.

The book of Daniel contains more warnings concerning entangling with worldly governments. In Daniel 6, we read of how King Darius foolishly bowed to the pressure of his advisors and passed a decree that all prayer should be directed only to him. This displeased God greatly and led to a series of terrible consequences, including the imprisonment of Daniel. This story serves as a warning to Christians to exercise caution when interacting with representatives of world governments.

In the Bible, many warnings have been given from God to his beloved people about certain churches linked to world governments. While the Bible does not directly target a specific denomination or world government, it does provide warnings about the dangers of those who affiliate themselves with false gods, false ideologies, and unjust governments.

Through Christ and his Apostles, God has given us a clear expectation of behavior in the church aligned to world governments. Paul’s letter to the churches in Corinith, admonishes the believers to align their actions to the gospel, rather than seeking to please the world or its rulers. We are warned by Christ’s words that the governments of the world are transitory, while the teachings of God are eternal. It is expected that if we become too attached to the customs of the world, we may lose sight of the unchanging laws of God. 

The Bible cautions us against putting our trust in world governments, or anyone in authority. Deuteronomy 6:9 warns, “Be careful not to become involved in the practices of the nations that the Lord will drive out before you.” The Amorites and Canaanites are examples of people who turned away from God and became corrupt in their practices. We are not to follow their example by becoming too deeply involved in the world and its ways. This includes any govenment’s leadership, laws, or customs that conflict with God's own commands. 

Through his warnings throughout the Bible, God encourages us to follow the path he has laid out for us and to remain very discerning about the churches that choose to align themselves with the rulers of world governments. In the book of Romans, Paul clearly states his faithfulness to God, even if it means standing against those in power who are practicing evil. He encourages us to follow his example, understanding that God himself is our ultimate ruler and judge.

When selecting a church to attend, we must be sure to vet it thoroughly and make sure it is adhering to biblical standards. We must be ever mindful of how linked to world governments the church is and its potential impact on our faith. The Bible has been clear in its warnings, and we must heed them to ensure we never become too deeply entrenched in the ways of the world.

The Bible, ultimately, speaks loud and clear on this issue: the church must be separate from the world and the rules of man. To become entangled with worldly governments and rulers is to compromise one’s faith and is not in accordance with God’s will. Instead, churches should aim to operate in a way that centers around God’s laws and commandments. By walking this line, the church can stay true to its mission and bring glory to God’s name.