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We don't long for a state ruled by Christian fiat any more than these alarmists do.

That's because we believe we already live in a theocracy, though not fully realized, ruled by God himself. But—to calm the rising anxiety of some—it's not a theocracy (or kingdom) of coercion. The all-powerful King asks his people to kneel. He does not force them. Those who refuse may do so and will answer to the King himself, not to us.

But let's get a grip: Neither evangelicals, the Religious Right, nor any sizable Christian movement is in any position to seize the reins of government. It is far more likely that evangelicals will respond to recent criticism by retreating from political life and emphasizing personal piety. There are already indications of this in several of the "insider" books criticizing the Religious Right. Likewise, a popular song on Christian radio stations right now declares, "You ask me what I think of the war. … My only position is kneeling."

Indeed. But kneeling before the King does not preclude our duty to promote justice in a world in which God's sovereignty is not yet fully manifested. The kingdom of God has been breaking through since the Resurrection. One day it will be here in fullness, but it is already here. The question is not what would happen if we lived in a theocracy. For those who have eyes to see, we already do. Hallelujah.

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First Things has an overview of some of the recent books on theocracy in America.

Philip Yancey wrote a column on comparative theocracy.

Weblog also has something to think about.

More Christianity Today editorials on Politics include:

God's Will in the Public Square | Democratic Senator Barack Obama gets it mostly right. A Christianity Today editorial (September 1, 2006)

Worship as Higher Politics | Political priorities for citizens of the kingdom. A Christianity Today editorial (June 23, 2005)

How Serious Are Democrats? | Making abortion rare will take more than words. A Christianity Today editorial (March 16, 2005)

Same Song, Second Term | It is a unique political moment for Christian conservatives—or is it? A Christianity Today editorial (Jan. 10, 2005)

For Whom Would Jesus Vote? | Single-issue politics is neither necessary nor wise. A Christianity Today editorial (Oct. 27, 2004)

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November 2006, Vol. 50, No. 11