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The Kingdom that Turned the World Upside Down  /  Chapter 13, Am I of This World  /  Discussion Questions
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Question 5
Bercot argues the New Testament gives instructions only to Christian subjects, never to Christian rulers; what do you think that omission is meant to teach, and how should it shape a Christian’s ambitions regarding government power?
Another way to ask: If the New Testament gives guidance to Christian citizens but not to Christian rulers, what do you think that is meant to teach? How should that affect a Christian’s desire to gain or use government power?

Direct Answer Bercot’s point is that the New Testament treats earthly government as “of this world,” so Scripture instructs believers on how to live under it rather than how to run it—warning Christians not to aim for government power as though it were a normal part of Christ’s kingdom.

Support from Transcript:

  • He contrasts other relationships where God gives guidance to both sides: “instructions to both husbands and wives… masters and servants… parents and children… pastors and… flock.”
  • “However, when it comes to earthly governments, it’s quite different.”
  • “The New Testament gives instructions only to Christian subjects, never to Christian rulers.”
  • He presses the implication: “If God had intended for there to be Christian rulers, why were no instructions given to them?”
  • This fits his earlier theme that Christ’s kingdom is “not of this world” and not defended by force.
Discussion Follow-ups If Scripture trains us mainly as subjects, what does faithful citizenship look like without chasing control? What ambitions might need to be surrendered if they depend on “earthly might”?

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