The Rejection of Human Depravity and Its Consequences
Modernity’s rejection of the Christian doctrine of human depravity has profound implications. By denying the inherent sinfulness and fallibility of mankind, society has emboldened the centralization of power. We see this in the rise of technocratic elites and unaccountable governing bodies that operate with little to no checks on their authority. This concentration of power, irrespective of the seemingly benevolent intentions behind it, is a breeding ground for tyranny. History teaches us that unchecked power inevitably leads to abuse and oppression.
The planners and visionaries of our age, however well-intentioned, are flawed by their very nature. Without acknowledging the intrinsic corruption that affects all humans, their grand schemes are doomed to fail. They overlook a fundamental truth: the problem is not solely external but internal. Human depravity is universal, cutting across all levels of society and affecting every individual. This understanding is crucial, as it informs a governance model that is inherently cautious about the concentration of power.
The Presbyterian Solution: Decentralization and Accountability
Presbyterianism, with its decentralized structure, offers a compelling solution to the dangers of concentrated power. By distributing authority across various levels—local Sessions, regional Presbyteries, and national General Assemblies—Presbyterian governance ensures that no single entity wields excessive power. Each assembly is composed of elected elders who are accountable to their congregations and to one another. This system of checks and balances gave rise to the political ideals of democratic republics, which seek to prevent the rise of authoritarianism.
Furthermore, the Presbyterian model is deeply rooted in the recognition of human depravity. It acknowledges that all individuals, regardless of their status or position, are prone to sin and corruption. This realistic view of human nature informs a governance structure that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and mutual correction. It is a model that inherently guards against the concentration of power and the ensuing dangers of tyranny.
Humility and Self-Examination: The Path to True Governance
To save the West, we must return to a humble acknowledgment of our own depravity. The problem lies not merely in external systems or distant elites but within our very hearts. As John Calvin emphasized, true reform begins with self-examination and the recognition of our own sinfulness. It is only when we come to the table with the conviction that we are the problem that we can begin to build systems that mitigate the effects of our fallen nature.
This humble acknowledgment will not usher in a utopia. Human governance, by its very nature, will always be flawed. However, by recognizing and addressing the reality of human corruption, we can curb the excesses and abuses that so often accompany concentrated power. The Presbyterian model, with its emphasis on decentralized authority and collective accountability, provides a practical framework for achieving this goal.
Reawakening the Importance of Checks and Balances
Our citizenry has all but forgotten why we need checks and balances. Despite having these systems in place, there is a concerning trend of abandoning them. The fundamental principle behind checks and balances is to prevent the concentration of power and to ensure that all branches of government remain accountable. This principle is deeply rooted in the recognition of human depravity. By dispersing power, we acknowledge that no individual or group can be trusted with unchecked authority.
The Presbyterian system, with its layered assemblies and collective leadership, mirrors this ideal. It serves as a constant reminder that every person is fallible and that power must be carefully distributed and monitored. As we see our democratic institutions waver, it is crucial to reemphasize the importance of these safeguards. Without them, we risk sliding into tyranny, regardless of the noble intentions of those in power.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Presbyterianism offers a vital corrective to the modern West’s drift towards centralized power and the denial of human depravity. By embracing the Reformed understanding of human nature and adopting a governance structure that decentralizes authority, we can protect against the rise of tyranny and promote a more just and accountable society. This approach, grounded in humility and self-examination, reminds us that the problem is not “out there” but within ourselves. Only by acknowledging and addressing our own depravity can we hope to build systems that safeguard against the corrupting influence of power and preserve the liberties and responsibilities that underpin a free and democratic society.
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Recommended Reading
The Presbyterian tradition has a rich history of theological and political thought that has contributed to the development of the idea of checks and balances. Here are some key works and figures from the pre-modern era that were influential:
1. John Calvin's "Institutes of the Christian Religion" (1536)
John Calvin's magnum opus, "Institutes of the Christian Religion," laid the theological groundwork for much of Presbyterian thought. In this work, Calvin discusses the nature of human sinfulness and the need for governance that acknowledges human depravity. While not explicitly about checks and balances, Calvin's emphasis on the corruptibility of human nature influenced later Presbyterian views on the necessity of distributed power.
2. George Buchanan's "De Jure Regni Apud Scotos" (1579)
George Buchanan, a Scottish historian and Presbyterian, wrote "De Jure Regni Apud Scotos" ("The Law of Kingship among the Scots"). This work argues against the divine right of kings and for the accountability of rulers to the people, which laid an intellectual foundation for the idea of checks and balances in governance.
3. Samuel Rutherford's "Lex, Rex" (1644)
Samuel Rutherford, a Scottish Presbyterian theologian, wrote "Lex, Rex" ("The Law and the King") during the English Civil War. In this book, Rutherford argues that the law is above the king and that rulers are accountable to the law and the people. This work was instrumental in shaping ideas about limited government and the separation of powers.
4. The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646)
The Westminster Confession of Faith, a foundational document for Presbyterianism, outlines a system of church government that includes representative assemblies and distributed authority. This ecclesiastical structure influenced broader political theories about the separation of powers and checks and balances.
5. The writings of John Knox
John Knox, a Scottish minister and leader of the Reformation, played a crucial role in establishing Presbyterianism in Scotland. His works argued for limitations on monarchical power and the importance of accountability and governance according to biblical principles.
6. The Scottish Covenanters' literature
The Scottish Covenanters were a Presbyterian movement in the 17th century that resisted royal attempts to impose episcopacy on the Church of Scotland. Their writings, such as the "National Covenant" (1638) and the "Solemn League and Covenant" (1643), emphasize the importance of lawful and accountable governance.
7. The Vindiciae Contra Tyrannos (1579)
Though not written by a Presbyterian (but a French Protestant and member of the anti-monarchist Monarchomaques)., "Vindiciae Contra Tyrannos" ("A Defense of Liberty Against Tyrants"), attributed to Philippe du Plessis Mornay, was highly influential among Reformed thinkers. This work argued that rulers are accountable to God and the people, and it advocated for resistance against tyrannical authority. It was widely read by Presbyterian leaders and influenced their thoughts on governance.
These works collectively underscore the importance of limiting the concentration of power and ensuring accountability, both in the church and in civil governance. They contributed to the intellectual heritage that shaped the development of modern democratic ideas, including checks and balances.