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In Christianity, there is a lot of discussion about end times, tribulation, rapture, and similar topics. Mike Winther addresses end times views found in the Bible. The modern church holds different views compared to the traditional perspectives. In this episode, Mike argues in favor of the traditional view rather than the modern interpretation of the end times.
[01:02] There are Christians who believe that when the Antichrist takes over there will be a one world government. This ties in because there are people pushing for a one world government. [02:52] Their church had a dispensational view. This view says that there's a 7-year tribulation coming, at the end of this is the second coming of Christ, things get worse and worse, there's a one world government, and Christians are persecuted. [03:41] There is also the view that the church is raptured out either at the beginning, middle, or end of the tribulation. [05:58] Mike spent a year reading Gary Demar and studying biblical end times. He had an amazing bible study year. [06:23] If you haven't heard of this view, he wants you to at least know about it. You might just have the best Bible study year of your life. [06:45] Eschatology is the study of the end times. [07:34] Matthew 24. The Olivet discourse. [17:41] According to all of the scripture these prophecies took place in the first century. [19:44] The new world view is the future tribulation and the one world government. The old worldview was that the tribulation was a prophecy. [20:02] The prophetic event that we are waiting for is the second coming of Jesus. [21:27] The Antichrist isn't mentioned in Revelations. [22:53] Mike talks about Revelations 1. [26:29] In Matthew, Jesus talks about the abomination of desolation. [28:31] Second Thessalonians chapter 2. [30:41] Psalm 110. This is the Old Testament passage most quoted in the New Testament. [32:37] The end times view of things getting worse and worse isn't supported in scripture. [33:13] The 3,000 page challenge. [33:58] Free yourself from debt and government subsidies. Consider the 5% Challenge and supporting good causes. [37:21] Suggest a ministry in the church for government economics. [38:04] Encourage private education as opposed to government education. [40:09] Don't be afraid to teach hard biblical truth. Present it lovingly and humbly but present the truth. [41:31] Have a long-term strategy of education and changing hearts and minds. [45:00] William Wilberforce and his plight to absolve the slave trade. [48:22] Let's start building the kind of world that God wants us to build. Your Resources: Books to browse Biblical Principles of Government (1a) Biblical Principles of Government (1b) Biblical Principles of Government (2a) Biblical Principles of Government (2b) Biblical Principles of Government (3a) Biblical Principles of Government (3b) Biblical Principles of Government (4a) Biblical Principles of Government (4b) Biblical Principles of Government (5a) Biblical Principles of Government (5b) Biblical Principles of Government (6a) Biblical Principles of Government (6a) Biblical Principles of Government (7a) Biblical Principles of Government (7b) Biblical Principles of Government (8a) Biblical Principles of Government (8b) Biblical Principles of Government (9a) Biblical Principles of Government (9b) Biblical Principles of Government (10a) Last Days Madness God and Government The Apocalypse Code William Wilberforce
He also emphasizes that this topic is not an absolute necessity of the Christian faith. True and honest Christians disagree about the end times and even about what the Bible says regarding them. As believers, this is a subject on which we can agree or disagree. Most churches have adopted the newer version of the end times from the 1860s or 1870s; this view encourages the church to remain passive. In this discussion, Mike revisits what the Bible says as he concludes this series.
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In this session, Mike Winther discusses government, relativism, and absolute truth. He talks about how the modern educational system teaches relativism instead of absolute truth. A significant part of the modern world's conflict centers on the debate over the existence of absolute truth. The message of this class is that absolute truths do exist, and there may be more of them than we initially thought.
In the first week of this lecture series, Mike explored the proper role of government. The core assumption is that there is a proper role for government, as well as improper roles. We should have a framework for determining what the proper role of government is. God's commands and prohibitions that apply to individuals also apply to groups, including the government. Any exceptions to this rule must be clearly outlined in scripture.
We can always look to the Bible to see what powers are given to the government or magistrate. The civil government adjudicates disputes, protects our rights, and defends us from foreign invasion. Mike reviews some concepts from previous episodes and introduces new material on foreign policy and war. He shares how biblical principles that apply to individuals on a small scale also apply to groups and governments.
You’ll Learn:
[00:56] Government, relativism, and absolute truth. Our modern education is teaching our kids relativism, not absolute truth. [02:05] There are absolute truths. We should have a framework for deciding what the proper role of government is. [03:21] The collective application of God's commands. God's command applies to us individually and collectively. [06:09] The civil government adjudicates disputes between individuals. Each institution has tools given to them by scripture. These include the power of the rod for the family government, excommunication for the church government, and power of the sword for the civil government. [07:07] The government is also here to protect our rights. [13:17] The law is needed to bring salvation, social order, and help us identify who God is. [13:49] R. J. Rushdoony is one of Mike's favorite authors. [18:39] Foreign policy and war. The use of the sword. [23:47] What applies on the small scale also applies on the big scale. [26:00] If we are wronged in a non-violent way we turn the other cheek. [29:29] The biblical principle of self-defense. [34:34] Mike talks about the US drone strikes in Pakistan. [37:23] Mike talks about constitutional wars and unconstitutionally declared wars. If we're going to go to war they should be constitutionally declared. [41:20] He also touches on Brexit and the European Union. [45:17] Mike gives an example about how division is better than one central power. [46:56] The more power, the more temptation to sin. Your Resources: Books to browse Biblical Principles of Government (1a) Biblical Principles of Government (1b) Biblical Principles of Government (2a) Biblical Principles of Government (2b) Biblical Principles of Government (3a) Biblical Principles of Government (3b) Biblical Principles of Government (4a) Biblical Principles of Government (4b) Biblical Principles of Government (5a) Biblical Principles of Government (5b) Biblical Principles of Government (6a) Biblical Principles of Government (6a) Biblical Principles of Government (7a) Biblical Principles of Government (7b) Biblical Principles of Government (8a) Biblical Principles of Government (8b) Biblical Principles of Government (9a) Biblical Principles of Government (9b) R. J. Rushdoony: A Patriarch for Modern Theonomy Institutes of Biblical Law (Vol. 1-3) -
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In this ongoing discussion of Biblical Principles of Government, Mike Winther talks about the ongoing battle over history. He begins with a tribute to King Massasoit and explains how the pilgrims bought land from the Native Americans. This tribute eventually evolved into a plaque commemorating the conflict between the pilgrims and the Native Americans, highlighting two different narratives. There is a battle over history.
[00:40] The Mayflower II is a replica of the Mayflower. There is a statue of Massasoit . A symbol of people who held justice higher than their race. [02:36] We don't evangelize a compromising truth or a compromising God. [03:02] Land was purchased by the pilgrims who understood property rights. [04:08] National Day of Mourning, and Thanksgiving as a reminder of genocide. [08:26] Pilgrims founded Harvard as a university to teach pastors and Christians and create a new level of leadership. [09:36] Mike explains how Charles I was a tyrant. [12:09] The brief that John Cooke helped create to justify sentencing Charles I. [14:13] The people wanted a king, and Charles II had a reign of terror unlike anything that his father had done. [15:10] The battle for heroes. George Washington was unique. [15:49] The French and Indian War. This was the French and the Indians against the colonists and the English. [21:01] Mike talks about George Washington's miraculous survival in the war. [28:14] Looking back and making historical figures heroes to suit our political agenda. [34:32] Our heroes matter. Selling ideas by selling our heroes. [35:17] Industrialization of the 1800s. A lot of the population was moving out west. [36:05] In order to get the Transcontinental Railroad, the government created the Union Pacific and the Central Pacific Companies to build railroads. [37:17] The greatest subsidy was the US Army which was used to clear the Indians from the land. [40:16] Whenever anybody tells you a project is too big for the private sector, don't believe it. [43:01] There's a lot of revisionist history out there. Both sides accuse the other side of revising history. Your Resources: Books to browse Biblical Principles of Government (1a) Biblical Principles of Government (1b) Biblical Principles of Government (2a) Biblical Principles of Government (2b) Biblical Principles of Government (3a) Biblical Principles of Government (3b) Biblical Principles of Government (4a) Biblical Principles of Government (4b) Biblical Principles of Government (5a) Biblical Principles of Government (5b) Biblical Principles of Government (6a) Biblical Principles of Government (6a) Biblical Principles of Government (7a) Biblical Principles of Government (7b) Biblical Principles of Government (8a) Biblical Principles of Government (8b) Biblical Principles of Government (9a) Mayflower II The Tyrannicide Brief: The Story of the Man Who Sent Charles I to the Scaffold Bulletproof George Washington Real Lincoln Lincoln Unmasked The Myth of the Robber Barons by Burt Folsom Crown and Covenant Trilogy
We learn about some interesting aspects of English and early American history from the pilgrims, legal scholars, and early church leaders. Mike emphasizes that in order to have liberty and freedom, these concepts must exist in the minds of the people. He then turns to America and the battle for heroes, starting with the unique characteristics of George Washington. This discussion provides a wonderful look into our history, all tying back to Biblical principles.
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Mike Winther continues his discussion on Biblical Principles of Government. This episode will focus on history, but he begins the lecture by highlighting two key solutions to our problems: the political solution and the educational solution. All of our efforts to change the world can be divided into these two categories.
[01:02] The political and educational solutions to our problems. We either try to change society politically or through education. [01:41] Sometimes we get our focus wrong and put all of our effort on the political solution and neglect education. [05:32] If we spent 1/10 of what is spent on political campaigns on education and teaching High School students this course, it would change society. [12:16] Mike talks about the importance of reading and how we all need to be readers. [16:06] History and the etymology of the word. His story or the working out of God's story. [19:15] History is important to God. Just try to find a book in the Bible that isn't about history. [19:44] Psalm 78 and Joshua 4 and Judges 5 and the New Testament. [22:23] Mike talks about the six philosophical views of history that frame how people view history. [23:15] The state of society, good or bad. Early time and later time. This charts the views of History. [23:46] 1. The random view of History. Things are sometimes better and sometimes worse. [24:13] 2. The pendulum view of History where we swing from one extreme to another. [24:51] 3. The evolutionary progress view. This is where everything evolves over time and gets better. [25:39] The first three views of history are atheist or agnostic. The next three are compatible with Christianity. [25:41] He also talks about what all Christians agree on. [27:13] 4. The pessimistic view. Things get worse and worse until the second coming. [27:46] 5. The neutral view. We're not getting more or less righteous, things just vacillate back and forth. [28:08] 6. The optimistic view. Over time, the church has more influence, and the level of righteousness improves. [28:46] Psalm 110 [36:37] History is simply the study of the consequences of ideas. It gets exciting when you think about the stuff that really happened. [37:48] The Magna Carta was the first time a king was seriously challenged. [38:36] The Great Charter was the start of a multi-millennial challenge to the power of the king. [39:46] Mike shares the history before the landing of the Mayflower. [40:30] The Gutenberg Bible gave more people access to read God's word. [42:28] Separatists were people who were tired of the Church of England and were separating. The Puritans were trying to purify and solve all the flaws. [43:11] The pilgrims lived in Holland before they came to Plymouth. John Robinson preached all of God's words. [44:14] The number one reason they left Holland was because their children were too influenced by the secular nature of Holland. The fifth reason was to evangelize the natives of North America. [48:20] The Mayflower Compact. The first constitution in the US. [51:51] The providential view of history says that Providence or God intervenes in history. [56:24] The pilgrims didn't have enough crops to sustain themselves. [01:00:35] The first experiment in socialism was a failure. Once it was abandoned they had more food than they could use. Your Resources: Books to browse Biblical Principles of Government (1a) Biblical Principles of Government (1b) Biblical Principles of Government (2a) Biblical Principles of Government (2b) Biblical Principles of Government (3a) Biblical Principles of Government (3b) Biblical Principles of Government (4a) Biblical Principles of Government (4b) Biblical Principles of Government (5a) Biblical Principles of Government (5b) Biblical Principles of Government (6a) Biblical Principles of Government (6a) Biblical Principles of Government (7a) Biblical Principles of Government (7b) Biblical Principles of Government (8a) Biblical Principles of Government (8b) A Practical Guide to Culture: Helping the Next Generation Navigate Today's World History of Plimoth Plantation
We either try to change society politically or through education. Unfortunately, we often concentrate all our efforts on the political solution, when focusing on education is the real answer. Spending just one-tenth of what is spent on political campaigns on biblical education could significantly influence the outlooks of future generations. Mike also emphasizes the importance of reading physical books, underlining, and bookmarking the best passages.
Mike kicks off the history portion by breaking down the etymology of the word "history." He discusses how history is important to God and uses the Bible as an example. Mike then explores the six philosophical views of history that shape how people perceive it. We learn that history is the study of the consequences of ideas. Mike strives to make history interesting and ties it back to the Biblical Principles we cherish.
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Mike Winther continues his valuable teaching on economics, government, and history in section 8a of his Biblical Principles of Government course. Have you ever wondered how an economy grows? Mike begins by discussing growth, inflation, and increasing the money supply, answering these questions using his ongoing small island economy example.
He also addresses incentives to invest and explains how market downturns are less severe when people have substantial savings. Additionally, we learn why a fixed economy would benefit more individuals. After covering economic topics, Mike shifts his focus to education.
He explores the biblical view of whom we teach and how we teach. He also shares concepts both inside and outside the Overton window, the differences between Puritans and separatists, what parents know about teachers, and many other intriguing ideas and examples. As usual, this lecture is as relevant today as it was when it was first recorded.You’ll Learn:
[00:41] If we didn't have inflation or the money supply increased, how would the economy grow? [00:55] Thinking the economy can't grow without inflation is a Keynesian philosophy. [01:06] Mike goes back to the island example to illustrate his point. [02:18] He talks about how the value of money can increase and help retirees and all of us with a motivation to save and invest. [04:20] Education. Deuteronomy 6:4 [05:47] Who gets education? Who do we educate? How do we educate? [07:28] Mike shares concepts outside the Overton window. [10:04] He talks about Puritan versus separatist. [14:35] kids learn to read and write to properly decipher the word of God. [19:16] What do parents know about their children's teachers? [21:43] In 1831, Tocqueville said that it's rare to find a student who hasn't had teaching about the Constitution of the United States. There also weren't government schools. [27:06] Mike talks about the State having more authority over our children's education. The idea of switching the Overton window from private to public education. [33:38] What we teach our kids in high school matters because it affects what they believe later on when they become adults and start deciding for themselves. [34:38] We need to look at education and ask what the ideal should be. [35:25] It should be an ideal that the education of our kids is Christian and private. [38:32] When you put the word state in a school it means it's a government school. [38:54] Why is our educational system feeling? Socialism and communism. What it teaches. [39:38] Mike shares quotes by Martin Luther. [40:24] AA Hodge quotes on government education. [41:48] Strategy: Decrease public education. Increase private education. Don't fund the enemy. Vote down the school bond issues. We need to fund good ideas. Educate yourself. Educate others. Your Resources: Books to browse Biblical Principles of Government (1a) Biblical Principles of Government (1b) Biblical Principles of Government (2a) Biblical Principles of Government (2b) Biblical Principles of Government (3a) Biblical Principles of Government (3b) Biblical Principles of Government (4a) Biblical Principles of Government (4b) Biblical Principles of Government (5a) Biblical Principles of Government (5b) Biblical Principles of Government (6a) Biblical Principles of Government (6a) Biblical Principles of Government (7a) Biblical Principles of Government (7b) Biblical Principles of Government (8a) -
As Mike Winther continues his Biblical Principles of Government series, we'll explore practical components about how the world works while increasing our intellectual inquiry. All of this is so we can gain a better understanding of how we can make a difference.
He kicks off the show by discussing whether the topics covered in the series really matter.
For many Christians, they don't. Everything is already seen as a foregone conclusion. This is a view that people have held since the second century AD. If your answer is yes, this matters, then what are you going to do? This lecture will highlight why it matters and what actions you may want to take.You’ll Learn:
[00:52] Does the stuff that we've been talking about matter? [01:19] For a lot of Christians, the stuff doesn't matter. [01:37] If the answer is yes, what are you going to do? [02:11] Matthew 10:16 [05:57] Mike makes a chart with two extremes like 0% government and 100% government. He also makes a chart with philosophical positions and the number of people with those views. [08:15] With extreme positions the vast majority of our population will fall in the middle of a bell curve. [13:05] His chart shows how candidates move towards the middle majority in a way that makes the two political parties similar. [15:29] Political parties and candidates will try to position their beliefs and what they tell you as close to the hump in the bell curve as possible. [17:53] The political solutions in America actually aren't political solutions. We're not going to change America at the voting booth. [19:15] We need to move up by educating people and changing hearts and minds. [21:55] The dialectic is a philosophy or explanation of how history works. [23:19] The thesis and antithesis do battle. Neither side wins but there is a blending. [29:33] The real victory goes to the bold. [33:52] Every issue has unthinkables on both sides. [37:00] If you want to persuade someone, you need to ask whether they're in the Overton window. [37:32] The public opinion bubble. The concept of the dialectic. The concept of the Overton window. These are three accurate ways of analyzing how change happens in society. [38:34] America is as America thinks. [40:44] Hearing policy options over and over will move someone's Overton window. [42:57] Sharing ideas is the start to shifting public opinion. [43:06] How do we move the population bubble? How do we do these things to change the course of civilization? [44:09] Number one thing is we need God's help. Promote truth and a Biblical perspective. [44:32] You don't need immediate results. Go for the long haul. You can accomplish a lot if you don't care who gets the credit. [48:44] The elections are just the fuel gauge. Your Resources: Books to browse Biblical Principles of Government (1a) Biblical Principles of Government (1b) Biblical Principles of Government (2a) Biblical Principles of Government (2b) Biblical Principles of Government (3a) Biblical Principles of Government (3b) Biblical Principles of Government (4a) Biblical Principles of Government (4b) Biblical Principles of Government (5a) Biblical Principles of Government (5b) Biblical Principles of Government (6a) Biblical Principles of Government (6a) Biblical Principles of Government (7a) Biblical Principles of Government (7b) -
Mike Winther continues his conversation from last week about charity, highlighting God's plan for generosity and the importance of sharing. He differentiates between God's model of voluntary charity and the concept of forced charity, such as Marxism, which he claims is not genuine charity. He compares the government's approach to God's model, beginning the episode by referencing scriptural passages that outline God's vision.
Mike also examines God's "safety net," which includes working, helping one's family, and seeking support from the church. Another critical topic he dives into is the church's role in charitable work. He references passages from "Bringing in the Sheaves" while discussing the ongoing struggle against poverty. Additionally, he touches on the enumerated powers of the federal government and how states contribute to defining these powers. Ultimately, he brings all his teachings back to biblical principles, emphasizing their importance over government policies.You’ll Learn:
[00:41] James 1:26 talks about pure and faultless religion and caring for widows and orphans. 1st Timothy 6:17 talks about the same. [02:44] The idea of being willing to share is God's plan. [03:04] 2nd Thessalonians 3:10. If man will not work, he shall not eat. [04:23] 1st Timothy 5:7 is about providing for your relatives. [05:00] God's safety net is you work, and you take care of your family. [05:34] There are three layers to God's "safety net" including individual hard work, family, and the church. [06:22] Ezekiel 16:29 The first sin is not helping the needy. [07:39] Taking care of the poor and needy is a Christian mandate. [07:54] Charity. 1. Giving to those with real need. 2. Giving voluntarily. 3. Giving out of love. [09:37] If Christians do charity correctly, Jesus and the church get the credit. [12:02] Institutions and mechanisms for charity. Self-reliance. Family. Church. Other voluntary non-Christian organizations. [13:00] Who gets charity? The widow, orphan, alien, and disabled. [13:50] Charity should be voluntary, local, and glorifying to God. [16:23] The war on the poor. LBJ declared a war on poverty in the 1960s. The alm's race had begun. [20:10] Presidents suggest spending Congress approves the budget. We can't collectively lump all the spending in one group or another. [22:54] The Deacon role is to take care of the Widow, orphan, and alien. [24:16] The states enumerate powers that they gave to the federal government. [26:48] Davy Crockett was a member of the US House of Representatives. [34:12] Redistribution frequently takes from people who are worse off than the ones getting the distribution. [37:25] The power of the truth of Christianity. [40:02] Providing charity is a difficult task. [42:05] The concepts of this class build each week and weave together like a fabric. [49:00] There's a battle over who provides the charity. As a church, we need to contend with that. Your Resources: Books to browse Biblical Principles of Government (1a) Biblical Principles of Government (1b) Biblical Principles of Government (2a) Biblical Principles of Government (2b) Biblical Principles of Government (3a) Biblical Principles of Government (3b) Biblical Principles of Government (4a) Biblical Principles of Government (4b) Biblical Principles of Government (5a) Biblical Principles of Government (5b) Biblical Principles of Government (6a) Biblical Principles of Government (6a) Biblical Principles of Government (7a) Bringing in the Sheaves -
In this discussion, Mike Winther explores the significant topic of charity. Mike approaches this subject with caution to ensure that our actions align not only with our intentions but also with what God intends. He discusses the arguments for both large and small government structures, highlighting two main reasons why government expansion occurs. Mike examines what the Bible says about charity and assisting the poor, and he contrasts God’s model of charity with that of Karl Marx.
Additionally, Mike addresses the issue of inflation, the increase in the money supply, and rising prices. We learn how inflation lowers the standard of living and serves as another means of wealth redistribution. The discussion also covers the influence of the wealthy and the pivotal meeting at Jekyll Island that led to the establishment of the Federal Reserve. Often, the solutions we devise are part of the problem itself. We further explore how inflation negatively impacts savings.
You’ll Learn:[01:03] What happens when we increase the money supply?
[02:34] Inflation reduces our standard of living and is another method of redistribution of wealth.
[03:16] Inflation is a hidden tax and even a moral evil.
[09:08] Mike talks about the private rail car taking the wealthy men who established the Federal Reserve to Jekyll Island. This gives monopoly control over our currency and interest rates to the semi-public semi-private institution.
[10:41] The Federal Reserve Act was sold as something to help the little guy. It actually did just the opposite.
[12:55] Mike talks about campaign finance reforms and how they backfired. It led to longer terms of office for the incumbents.
[16:17] Mike shares a hypothetical scenario that compares kids stealing a widows savings to losing savings when inflation is higher than interest rates.
[18:14] We have an ethical obligation to do something when we know an evil is occurring.
[21:01] Mike talks about how the government finances deficits. Methods include bonds, borrowing from foreign investors, and having the Federal Reserve create money in exchange for a bond.
[26:14] Debt is a bad thing.
[27:21] There's a battle over the size of the government.
[28:08] When people's safety feels threatened they allow the government to get bigger. We also expand government to help the poor.
[29:09] Who gets charity? Who gives charity? What are the standards for charity?
[30:03] Deuteronomy 10:17 through 19. Deuteronomy 14:28. Deuteronomy 24:19.
[38:10] The practical applications of this course are going to multiply. It's always a good idea to look at principles.
[42:26] Should we be forced to pay for someone else's education against our will?
[46:30] Is there a right to freedom of movement? What are the circumstances where you could legitimately reject someone from coming here?
[46:57] Individualism says the individual is most important. Collectivism says the group is most important.
Your Resources:Books to browse
Biblical Principles of Government (1a)
Biblical Principles of Government (1b)
Biblical Principles of Government (2a)
Biblical Principles of Government (2b)
Biblical Principles of Government (3a)
Biblical Principles of Government (3b)
Biblical Principles of Government (4a)
Biblical Principles of Government (4b)
Biblical Principles of Government (5a)
Biblical Principles of Government (5b)
Biblical Principles of Government (6a)
Biblical Principles of Government (6a)
The Creature from Jekyll Island
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This episode of the series begins by discussing the 2007 and 2008 housing bubble, a topic that remains highly relevant today. During that period, prices were skyrocketing and interest rates were low, leading people to refinance and sink deeper into debt. When the collapse occurred, proponents of big government blamed the free market and called for increased regulation.
Mike dives into the causes of this housing bubble, highlighting the manipulation of interest rates, the pricing of money, and the economic stimulation by the Federal Reserve. He discusses how low interest rates and the selling of loan bundles led to the ultimate collapse, emphasizing that government control over the economy tends to exaggerate normal economic fluctuations. Mike explains why Keynesian economics exacerbates inflationary periods.
The episode also explores the pitfalls of government banking systems and discusses why these issues should be of concern from a Christian perspective. Mike further analyzes economic principles such as supply and demand before shifting focus to healthcare. He describes how government actions increased demand and how third-party payers escalated spending. We also learn Mike’s solutions to these problems, consistently linking back to a biblical viewpoint.
You’ll Learn:[00:50] In 2007 and 2008, the price of real estate was escalating rapidly. Interest rates were low and people were refinancing and taking cash out.
[01:44] Whenever there's an economic problem, there's a battle between those who want big government and those who want small government.
[02:01] Dropping interest rates and more people can buy. Rates kept dropping. They were manipulating interest rates or the price of money.
[04:58] In free markets, interest rates go up and down and draw money in and out of banks. It balances the economy.
[08:41] Why were lenders making bad lending decisions? An example.
[14:37] Why 0% interest rates contribute to bad loans.
[16:54] When rates drop, people buy more houses. When people stop buying, the economy begins to slow.
[17:57] When people with high debt were unable to pay their loans, it began a chain reaction.
[18:34] Keynesian economics makes the trenches deeper and the inflationary periods worse.
[20:37] Mike talks about government required reserve ratios for banks and the government taking over banks.
[23:33] Mike breaks down supply and demand and how prices work.
[24:52] If healthcare prices are going up, demand is exceeding supply.
[26:05] How the government limits the supply of doctors in America.
[28:42] We have a scarcity of doctors, and they are working more hours.
[29:30] Medicaid passed in 1967 or 1968. Demand went up and prices increased. Medicare was also passed.
[32:20] When there's a third party payer, we're never as cautious about how we spend the money.
[33:55] Insurance only makes sense, when we insure the unlikely.
[36:34] The number of people hired for ObamaCare was greater than the number of doctors and nurses in America.
[37:33] We need more people to buy their own insurance.
[40:21] Mike shares another example.
Your Resources:Books to browse
Biblical Principles of Government (1a)
Biblical Principles of Government (1b)
Biblical Principles of Government (2a)
Biblical Principles of Government (2b)
Biblical Principles of Government (3a)
Biblical Principles of Government (3b)
Biblical Principles of Government (4a)
Biblical Principles of Government (4b)
Biblical Principles of Government (5a)
Biblical Principles of Government (5b)
Biblical Principles of Government (6a)
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Mike Winther kicks off Section 6a of "Biblical Principles of Government" with a poignant quote from Thomas Jefferson: "It's strangely absurd to suppose that a million human beings collected together are not under the same moral laws which bind each of them separately." This assertion underlines the principle of The Collective Application of God's Commands.
Mike dives into the concepts of individualism and collectivism, explaining individualism as dealing with individuals, whereas collectivism addresses the group as a whole. He highlights the role of government as a collective entity that represents and governs all citizens.
In searching for principles to guide government, he points out that Scripture offers clear guidelines on what government should and should not do. He also asserts that God's commands and guidance to individuals also apply to groups, emphasizing that what applies to the individual should also apply to the collective, unless scripture specifies otherwise.
You’ll Learn:[00:34] "It's strangely absurd to suppose that a million human beings collected together are not under the same moral laws which bind each of them separately." Thomas Jefferson
[01:06] The principal of The Collective Application of God's Commands.
[01:28] Individualism is when we deal with individuals. Collectivism is dealing with the whole.
[01:39] Government is a collective that represents all of the citizens and rules all of the citizens.
[01:48] We often look for principles to guide the government. There are principles in Scripture that give guidelines for what the government should and should not do.
[01:57] God's commands and guidance to us as individuals also applies to us as groups. We can assert what applies to the individual applies to the collective unless scripture specifically states otherwise.
[02:34] Capital punishment is given as an authority to civil government.
[03:10] An example of individual versus collective.
[08:48] Socialism places limits on the ownership of private property.
[09:19] We need to understand the idea of economic loss. The more goods and services we produce will result in the price going down.
[14:02] We produce for a number of reasons including its built into our DNA and it mimics God. We can help others by producing more and giving them the fruit of our labor.
[20:25] Contrasting the loyalty of serving your fellow man or being given things by the government.
[23:49] The philosophical schools of economics: The classical school of economics includes teachings by Adam Smith. A partial free market scenario.
[25:29] The Keynesian School of Economics from John Maynard Keynes. The government needs to manage and control the economy. Stimulation and slowing down an economy and having a central bank came from Keynes.
[26:46] The Neoclassical School of Economics is kind of between the other two.
[26:58] The Chicago School of Economics comes from the University of Chicago. The father of this school is Milton Friedman. He says government intervention is damaging the economy and moves closer to a free market model.
[27:41] The Austrian School of Economics. Pure free market economics.
[30:00] Mike talks about environmental issues and economics.
[39:41] Using government policy to choose winners and losers.
[44:54] Ethanol is a net negative energy source.
[46:42] Debt and deficits.
[53:38] Jobs are not the measure of our well-being, it's the goods and services that we have.
[54:45] Mike talks a little bit about monopolies.
Your Resources:Books to browse
Biblical Principles of Government (1a)
Biblical Principles of Government (1b)
Biblical Principles of Government (2a)
Biblical Principles of Government (2b)
Biblical Principles of Government (3a)
Biblical Principles of Government (3b)
Biblical Principles of Government (4a)
Biblical Principles of Government (4b)
Biblical Principles of Government (5a)
Biblical Principles of Government (5b)
The Wealth of Nations Hardcover
Ludwig von Mises
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Last week, Mike Winther discussed the biblical view of property, the definition of property, and the question of whether private property should even exist. Throughout this series of lectures, he has been using the example of an island to illustrate each concept.
Today, we return to the island to vote on redistributing money from the island's wealthy family to its poorer counterpart. In essence, our island has adopted a somewhat socialist approach, redistributing wealth from the rich to the poor. This change necessitates the introduction of an IRS agent and a social worker, leading to decreased production. Winther continues by demonstrating the impact of varying governmental forms on the real economy.
We explore concepts such as distributional and motivational loss. Mike dives into discussions on charity, the socialist model, and biblical principles aimed at preventing the vicious cycle of loss. He also outlines the reasons socialism is considered flawed, both biblically and in practical terms. Eventually, he comes back to the importance of property rights.
You’ll Learn:[00:43] One family on the island is highly productive. They are rich. There's also a poor family who isn't as productive.
[01:40] Our system then becomes socialist where we take from the rich and give to the poor.
[02:35] We then have to audit the productivity of every family on the island.
[03:27] One person is in charge of redistributing wealth.
[04:45] Removing one family to be the redistributors of wealth creates less for everyone, because that family isn't productive anymore.
[07:59] 40% of Americans are employed redistributing wealth.
[08:37] Socialist economies have motivational loss and distribution loss.
[11:31] The Socialist model for taking care of the poor reduces economic capacity.
[12:10] We need to understand why there is poverty.
[14:24] Socialism violates property rights.
[15:07] Three of The Ten Commandments actually assume a positive role of private property.
[23:14] Mike discusses a Biblical example of voluntary gifts of wealth.
[23:57] The free market is voluntary. Karl Marx and socialism are mandatory.
[24:09] Reasons why socialism is wrong: 1. It violates property rights. 2. Requires the government to operate outside its bounds. 3. There's no God in the system.
[27:29] Why are people poor? They're poor because of poor governmental systems and the economy's created by those systems.
[28:14] How to create poverty. Have a government that makes it hard to accumulate tools or excess production. Without property rights and holding title, improvements can lead to confiscation.
[30:03] Mike talks about the dangers of inflating the money supply.
[31:08] Contracts need to be enforced in order to grow wealth.
[32:00] We are poor with socialist governments. We are poor with no property rights.
[32:40] Our founding fathers said the most important right was the right to property.
[36:56] Governmental regulations can sometimes be used to pass the buck.
[37:50] Having the government solve every problem is the definition of statism.
[38:44] A Laissez-faire economy is a leave us alone economy or free market.
[44:16] How a market economy is able to actually create goods. The term is called the invisible hand or the hand of God.
Your Resources:Books to browse
Biblical Principles of Government (1a)
Biblical Principles of Government (1b)
Biblical Principles of Government (2a)
Biblical Principles of Government (2b)
Biblical Principles of Government (3a)
Biblical Principles of Government (3b)
Biblical Principles of Government (4a)
Biblical Principles of Government (4b)
Biblical Principles of Government (5a)
I Pencil
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In the words of Samuel Adams, one of the fathers of the American Revolution, The natural rights of the colonists are these: first, a right to life; secondly, to liberty; thirdly, to property; and lastly, to support and defend them in the best manner they can.
Our journey began with the theme of origins, followed by the theme of nature. Tonight, we turn our attention to property. We will explore the biblical view of property, define what property is, discuss how we manage property, and debate whether private property should exist.
We dive into the multifaceted concept of property through a lens both ancient and enduring—the biblical perspective. We'll explore the significance of property, the principles of managing it, and the pivotal question of its ownership. Should there be private property, or not? These are the crucial topics we will dive into tonight as we continue with lectures from Mike Winther’s class on Biblical Principles of Government.
You’ll Learn:[01:34] Five government systems: monarchy, oligarchy, democracy, republic, and anarchy.
[01:57] Communism isn't a governmental system, it's an economic system.
[02:07] There are only two economic systems. These are the free market and socialism. All other economic systems are a subset of these two.
[02:34] A free market consists of voluntary actions and voluntary trade.
[03:03] Socialism is an economic system that does have government involvement.
[03:33] The free market is a voluntary system and socialism is an involuntary system.
[04:37] The free market consists of voluntary exchange without the government being involved, but there is government enforcement of contracts.
[05:27] A contract is a non-governmental agreement between two parties. Contracts are made without the government, but the government has a role enforcing contracts.
[07:15] We have socialism if we have government controlled capital or forced redistribution of wealth.
[10:15] In America, we have a blended system which is part free market and part socialism.
[10:56] Karl Marx is the modern father of communism. He wrote The Communist Manifesto.
[11:27] According to Marx, a communist is a person who wants socialism.
[12:45] Socialism and communism believe that property is mutually owned. Socialism places limits on private ownership of property.
[15:26] The redistribution slogan of Karl Marx.
[16:40] There are political systems and economic systems.
[27:00] You can tell by the work on the roadways that the government is planning for the future to make it more difficult for people to take private transportation.
[29:43] We need to ask ourselves if our vote is more public sector or private sector and make a decision about which one we want to support.
[32:42] Freedom of physical movement is a big part of freedom of speech.
[35:31] Marx was an advocate of publicly funded schools. Is a public school socialist institution? Who finances it? Redistribution of wealth?
[37:37] Mike goes back to the island example to show how economic systems work.
[46:49] Who is hurt the most by a price increase? The poor. That's goods and services and the price goes up.
Your Resources:Books to browse
Biblical Principles of Government (1a)
Biblical Principles of Government (1b)
Biblical Principles of Government (2a)
Biblical Principles of Government (2b)
Biblical Principles of Government (3a)
Biblical Principles of Government (3b)
Biblical Principles of Government (4a)
Biblical Principles of Government (4b)
Whatever Happened to Justice?
The Communist Manifesto
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In this section of Mike Winther’s class on Biblical Principles of Government. Mike dives into economics with the goal of making economics useful to us. We explore the strategies communist leader Khrushchev purportedly advocated for undermining our economy through the gradual introduction of socialism.
Mike emphasizes how societal readiness for change often emerges from discontent with the current state of affairs, suggesting that instigating dissatisfaction is a precursor to change.
The lecture covers both microeconomics and macroeconomics, with Mike providing a tangible example of microeconomic principles at play on a deserted island. He discusses concepts such as capital, tools, and surplus production, underscoring the notion that there is nothing inherently wrong with seeking to improve one's standard of living—a pursuit even encouraged by the Bible.
Furthermore, Mike addresses the topics of exchange, trade, specialization, and the capacity to fulfill the needs of a community. It’s possible that this lecture is even more relevant now, then when it was first given.
You’ll Learn:
[01:11] You can accomplish a lot if you don't care who gets the credit. You can accomplish a lot if you're not in too big of a hurry.
[01:36] Being fed small doses of socialism until we wake up and find out we already have communism.
[02:01] There are groups and individuals who intentionally want to weaken the economy.
[03:01] People accept change when things aren't going well. You have to have a problem in order to be able to implement a solution.
[03:38] If you want to make change, you have to make it so things aren't going well.
[03:54] Economics comes from two Greek words which means the law of the house. It's the policies of running the house.
[04:35] Microeconomics or the economics of a household or firm or something small.
[06:38] Macroeconomics is the study of something bigger like a whole nation.
[07:17] Market friendly econ schools will want you to take microeconomics first. Big government leaning schools will want you to take macroeconomics first.
[08:30] Understanding the principles of microeconomics, a student won't fall for the big government macroeconomics.
[15:51] Means of production: Capital or tools. Capital is also excess production.
[21:47] There's nothing wrong with material wealth or improving your standard of living.
[26:51] Specialization matters. We can't have specialization without trade.
[30:59] Trade without money is called barter.
[36:19] As the island grows bartering becomes a problem, because the trade overhead is too high.
[39:29] Money needs to be durable and divisible.
[43:44] Inflation is an increase in the money supply. As the money supply increases, prices go up.
[48:36] Intrinsic value or something that will always have value.
[50:21] There's no inherent scarcity in paper money. Governments can print more of it.
[55:26] Inflation is like stealing.
[56:25] 1st Samuel chapter 8: When the king demands 10% you will be slaves.
[59:46] Economic issues are moral, ethical, and biblical issues.
Your Resources:Books to browse
Biblical Principles of Government (1a)
Biblical Principles of Government (1b)
Biblical Principles of Government (2a)
Biblical Principles of Government (2b)
Biblical Principles of Government (3a)
Biblical Principles of Government (3b)
Biblical Principles of Government (4a)
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Welcome to Section 4a of Mike Winther's continuing lecture series on the Biblical Principles of Government. In this segment, Mike embarks on an examination of Samuel Chapter 8, focusing on the events following the Israelites' entry into the promised land, which was preceded by a significant 40-year period of wandering in the wilderness.
This period began after the Israelites sent spies to scout the land of Canaan, and, upon receiving a discouraging report, the majority chose not to trust in God’s promise. Contrarily, only two spies, Caleb and Joshua, remained optimistic and faithful to God's guidance. Despite their positive report, the Israelites sided with the majority, leading to God's decree that they would wander in the desert for 40 years until a new, faithful generation arose.
This lecture explores how, after finally entering the promised land, the Israelites experienced the period of the Judges, marking a shift towards a decentralized form of government. Mike highlights how scripture offers both spiritual lessons and insights into governmental principles, illustrating the times of righteous judges and kings. The discussion raises a critical question: Which form of government did God prefer? The answer, as Mike reveals, is found in Samuel 8.
Throughout the series, Mike shares numerous examples of scriptural passages that reflect political statements. He delves into the negative consequences of monarchical rule, the benefits of decentralized power, and strategies to limit the expansion of government. This episode promises to be an eye-opener, shedding light on the intricate relationship between biblical teachings and governance.
You’ll Learn:
[00:38] 1st Samuel chapter 8. The spies came back with a negative report and discouraged the children of Israel from wanting to take the Promised Land.
[04:56] Caleb and Joshua were more optimistic because they knew they had got on their side.
[05:45] 40 years later, they learned that the people they were going to attack were afraid of them because they had got on their side.
[06:29] The period of the judges. This was a centralized government with a lot of leaders.
[08:35] There were periods of time when certain judges ruled and the people were righteous. There were more years of righteousness than people doing what was right in their own eyes.
[09:26] There are far more righteous judges listed in Hebrews than there were righteous kings.
[12:16] The colonists declared independence from the King of England in 1776 and restored God as the real king.
[15:05] Curses of bad government. The king will take your sons and make them serve. He will take your daughters, the best of your fields, and your vineyards. Also a tenth of your grain and your vintage.
[19:41] No government would try to tax more than 9%.
[21:21] There are a lot of passages of scripture that are actually political statements.
[22:42] If you understand the sin nature of man you want decentralized power.
[23:16] Civil government is bigger than it ought to be.
[23:41] Ways to limit the expansion of government.
[24:02] Understand the origins of rights and authority. God is the source of authority, we should go to scripture to find out what the government can and can't do.
[26:34] Good laws limit government. The horizontal separation of powers. Isaiah 3:22.
[33:19] The chasm between ideals and reality.
[35:22] What fuels the growth of government money and dependence.
[38:31] We need a vision to not depend on the government.
[39:55] We limit government by the watchful eye of the people.
[40:10] Public Choice Theory analyzes how the government grows.
Your Resources:Books to browse
Biblical Principles of Government (1a)
Biblical Principles of Government (1b)
Biblical Principles of Government (2a)
Biblical Principles of Government (2b)
Biblical Principles of Government (3a)
Biblical Principles of Government (3b)
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Mike Winther continues his series of lectures on the Biblical Principles of Government. Today, we dive into the sources of authority. God is identified as a source of authority, a truth we understand through scripture. The Bible is also proposed as the foundation for authority within family governance, as well as in civil and church contexts. If God is not considered the source of authority, then who or what would fill that role?
He discusses democracy and the principle of majority rule. Mike draws a distinction between large-scale (big) government and small-scale (small) government, indicating which source of authority each tends to favor. He also explores the differences between conservatives and liberals, and addresses the nuances of neo-conservatism within the contexts of Republican and Democratic ideologies. The aim is to transcend labels and maintain a focus on the issues. This series represents a thought-provoking journey through our political systems, beliefs, and historical contexts.
You’ll Learn:
[00:41] God is a source of authority. We know that through scripture. The Bible should also be the source of family government authority.
[02:00] Church and civil government also get its authority from God.
[02:26] Biblically church, family, and state are three separate institutions.
[03:12] In the Bible, kings receive wrath from doing the duty of God's priest.
[04:21] The debate is about the source of authority.
[04:50] Some want to build a wall between civil authority and God.
[05:59] If you favor small government, you're probably happy with God being the source of authority. Big government wants the majority to be the source of authority.
[07:58] For society to run well, we need good family government, good church government, and good civil government.
[10:49] On the left, we have communists and socialists. On the right, we have dictators and Nazis.
[11:47] Relativism gets us with the use of language.
[16:33] A conservative is one who conserves. Liberals want change.
[26:43] Neo conservatives will accept big government and not be shy about it.
Your Resources:Books to browse
Biblical Principles of Government (1a)
Biblical Principles of Government (1b)
Biblical Principles of Government (2a)
Biblical Principles of Government (2b)
Biblical Principles of Government (3a)
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This podcast is a continuation of Mike Winthers series of lectures on biblical principles in government. This is the first half of the third part. You can find links to the previous lectures below. Mike kicks off this lecture with questions about the nature and challenges of democracy. He begins with some interesting quotes from the book, Financial Reckoning Day.
"Mobs can only hold simple ideas in their minds. Ideas so belittled by the dumbing down process that they are a little more than myths. That was as true of democracy as it was of communism. The important point is that democracy allows for increased participation in politics and it spoils."
What does this mean? Isn't democracy the best form of government? Mike raises some interesting questions about democracy and how we should implement our governmental systems. We need to understand how to have a system that is based on scripture and follows God's principles of government.
You’ll Learn:
[00:39] Mike talks about the book, Financial Reckoning Day. Some of the information isn't relevant anymore but he talks about the idea of democracies.
[01:34] "Mobs can only hold simple ideas in their minds. Ideas so belittled by the dumbing down process that they are a little more than myths. That was as true of democracy as it was of communism. The important point is that democracy allows for increased participation in politics and it spoils."
[02:08] Democracy increases participation in politics. Democracy also increases participation in the spoils.
[03:12] The author's hypothesis is that the most tyrannical form of government is not a monarchy. He's going to say it's not an oligarchy. He's going to say that the most radical form of government is a democracy.
[04:11] Mass participation makes the government more tyrannical and more resistant to change. Alexis de Tocqueville also agreed with this.
[05:19] Tyrant Kings didn't have the resources to widely enforce their edicts.
[05:49] Democracy invites people into the governing class and turns them into unpaid agents of the government and makes them their own oppressors.
[06:09] In a democracy, citizens are part of the government by voting. This system makes us more willing to accept the outcome of the majority.
[07:06] Mike quotes Alexis de Tocqueville.
[09:01] In the 1800s, there was a view to push America towards a democracy as opposed to a Republic.
[11:21] The Plato versus Paul difference on the sin nature of man.
[13:14] We have three branches of government and the legislative branch is broken down into the House and the Senate.
[14:31] Isaiah 33:22.
[15:41] Are presidents actually elected? Don't forget about the Electoral College.
[16:03] Each state gets a certain number of electors that choose the president. This number of electors is based on the number of Senate seats and the number of House seats. There are always two senators.
[17:28] George Washington was chosen by the Electoral College which usually consisted of the retired legislature.
[18:36] 48 of our 50 states now choose electors by popular vote.
[27:16] By design, the Supreme Court has the least accountability of any of the legislative bodies.
[28:05] The idea of relative power. The founding fathers did not intend separate but equal.
[28:48] The Constitution grants the power of each body. It's a doctrine of enumerated powers which means it lists the powers of each branch of government.
[30:21] The founding fathers understood that there was a problem with having a king. There is value in having a strong chief executive.
[35:30] Mike talks about the idea of having a mixed form of government with accountability and what the founding fathers originally intended.
[42:07] There's a clear distinction between power and the authorization of power. Previous lectures have focused on power and authority.
[45:07] Political parties control the delegates.
[46:34] George Washington talked about the dangers of political parties. Like-minded people get together.
[50:21] Political parties control the primary process. The rules vary from state to state.
[51:09] Mike talks about the pitfalls of empowering the political parties too much.
Your Resources:Books to browse
Financial Reckoning Day: Surviving the Soft Depression of the 21st Century
Biblical Principles of Government (1a)
Biblical Principles of Government (1b)
Biblical Principles of Government (2a)
Biblical Principles of Government (2b)
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Romans chapter 13 is constantly used to say that Christians, or citizens in general, should always obey the civil authorities. There's a whole series of debates that come out of this. When is it proper for a Christian to obey authority? Is it ever proper to rebel against authority? Our founding fathers were constantly debating whether it was legitimate for those with a Christian worldview to rebel against the king.
Mike Winther continues his lecture on Biblical principles of government in this recording of the fourth episode in this series. He talks about concepts like power versus authority. Then he goes into the five forms of government. It goes back to the Bible and God being the source of authority. This is about understanding scripture being critical to political science if we want to have a Christian worldview.
You’ll Learn:
[01:22] Mike reads Romans 13. This chapter is the proof test of where our authority comes from. Our source of rights comes from God. Government authority comes from God.
[02:02] You can read this as every authority and power has been put there by God or the only legitimate authority comes from God.
[02:32] Power is the ability to make something happen. Authority is being authorized to do something. What is the government authorized to do and does it have enough power to do it?
[05:52] There are five forms of government. A monarchy is a rule of one.
[08:35] An oligarchy is a rule by an elite few. This is one of the most common forms of government on the planet.
[10:32] A democracy is ruled by the majority. Typically majorities don't always have a mind of their own. The real rulers are those who control the opinions of the majority like education and the media.
[12:53] The next form of government is a republic. This is the rule by law. Our founding fathers intended for us to be a republic.
[16:04] Is a rule by law the best system of government? That would depend on the laws.
[16:23] The last system of government is anarchy which is ruled by no one. This is a temporary state, because it creates a vacuum.
[18:04] Mike talks about different sources of law.
[24:58] John Wycliffe, the father of the English Bible.
[26:11] The Bible is a source of authority.
[26:50] If there is no God, then there is no liberty. This is where political science is critical to understanding scripture.
[27:26] Proving the necessity of God if you want to have a government. We need a non-human source for our rights.
[28:14] God is the source of law and above it.
[32:03] As Christians, we need to think through our logic on some of these issues.
Your Resources:Books to browse
The Federalist Papers
Biblical Principles of Government (1a)
Biblical Principles of Government (1b)
Biblical Principles of Government (2a)
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This lecture revolves around the theme of nature. Mike Winther talks about the nature of man and the nature of God. What is the true essence of man and God? He also talks about the nature or essence of government. We are in a battle of world views that include theological, political, and economic aspects.
Throughout history there has been a battle of ideas. Mike highlights how knowing ourselves and knowing our enemies helps us take a strong stance on our own worldviews and how they are related to biblical principles. He dives into telling God’s truth and being a strong part of God’s team as we go about our lives.
You’ll Learn:
[00:50] What is the nature or essence of man and God? What is the nature of government?
[01:31] There's always been a battle of ideas.
[02:11] There's been a clash of world views from Adam and Eve and all through ancient history to modern history.
[03:06] The Great Deceiver is out there and has always wanted to deceive us in all areas of life.
[04:45] Matthew chapter 16.
[11:48] Christians ought to be a player on God's team.
[15:04] How the Gates of Hell will not prevail. Gates is a defensive tool. Satan is on the defense and won't endure against the church.
[19:26] The founding fathers established a society that believes that our rights come from God.
[23:49] Is our government decision-making practical or principled? Practical decision making is based upon the knowledge of man.
[29:00] The Judeo-Christian perspective of man having a sin nature. Plato rejected this philosophy. He believed that man was essentially good.
[30:46] If man is good, how do you explain evil? The answer for Plato was the environment.
[34:40] The flaws with Plato's premise. Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely.
[39:41] The tool of the civil government is the sword. Governments exist to use force. According to Washington, the government is force.
[41:31] People in office need to know the nature of government.
[42:04] Mike talks about the will of God.
[44:26] God shares his desires in the Ten Commandments. We learn God's precepts, but he still allows these things.
[46:00] You can have great family discussions talking about the idea of decreed versus preceptive will of God. Human events can have human causes.
[50:24] We have an obligation to help the government take good actions.
Your Resources:Books to browse
Institutes of Biblical Law (Vol. 1-3)
The Art Of War
The Republic
Biblical Principles of Government (1a)
Biblical Principles of Government (1b)
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This lecture marks the continuation of Mike Winther's series on the Biblical Principles of Government. In the first session, Mike introduced himself and discussed his approach to influencing hearts and minds, the importance of political engagement, and the role of ethics and clear boundaries. He highlighted the Bible's capacity to guide us through these issues.
This time, Mike explores the philosophical and theological foundations of order, rights, and authority, making the case that intelligence is crucial for bringing order out of chaos. He insists that the concept of a Creator is inseparable from the origins of rights and authority. By comparing different sources of rights, like government, constitutional laws, and divine intention, he strongly supports the view that rights are granted by God.
He emphasizes that without recognizing a divine source, the basis for rights and authority becomes unstable leading to chaos. He also talks about the dangers of granting excessive power to governments. He argues that governmental authority and individual rights both come from God. He takes us back to the biblical principles that lead to an organized and balanced society.
You’ll Learn:
[00:36] Chaos or order and disorder. You can't create order from randomness without adding intelligence.
[01:21] The creation and evolution debate and the idea of gender. The debate over the origins of man.
[03:14] When we talk about the government, we also talk about rights. If we're going to know what they are. We need to know where they came from.
[04:18] Mike shares a lecture he shared with high school kids that leads to the creator.
[06:07] He began with rights and their source, because the source determines the use.
[07:02] The source determines the use. Who is our source? God.
[07:56] Sources of rights. Government? Majority? Constitution and Bill of Rights? No rights? Space aliens? God?
[09:39] If the government gives you your rights, who can take them away?
[10:36] The Source determines the use in all of these cases.
[15:53] The last two choices are either space aliens or God.
[16:20] This exercise has never not produced the desired outcome.
[18:08] There's a pragmatic way to lead someone to say what kind of world you want to live in.
[20:14] If evolution is true, then everything is the survival of the fittest. Even the human level.
[21:33] Source of authority. We want the government to have proper authority.
[23:44] The people aren't necessarily your source of government authority.
[28:43] Taking by force is theft. Where does the authority come from?
[30:15] Authority basically describes what the government can and can't do.
[31:10] God is the author of authority and he tells us through scripture.
[34:10] What John Adams said about our rights. Rights are derived from God.
[35:24] We are endowed by our creator with certain unalienable rights.
[37:16] The source of our rights must be in the same place as the source of our authority.
[37:39] Rights are liberties and powers that the people have. Authority is the power that the government has.
[38:37] We need the same origin for government authority and our rights.
[39:13] As Christians, we need to be clear on God's word.
[41:18] A caution about giving the government more power.
[41:52] Should we purchase security by spending our rights?
Your Resources:Books to browse
Institutes of Biblical Law (Vol. 1-3)
Biblical Principles of Government (1a)
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This is a recording of a class that Mike Winther gave on Biblical Principles of Government. He kicks off the show by sharing his background and how he was raised in a politically active family. He became interested in politics at a young age and was reading works by our founding fathers in junior high.
Mike shares how he got a degree in political science, focused on debate, and had a goal to change the world. He worked in multiple political campaigns with the goal of making a difference and achieving positive change. He discovered that it was hard to find candidates that he trusted, and when he found them, it was impossible for them to win an election.
He discovered that changing hearts and minds was key to having the best candidates and getting them elected. He talks about relativism and absolutes and finding the bright line or where you ethically cross. How do we come to our conclusions and why? The Bible has answers to these questions. Mike breaks down how to follow biblical principles and understand how they pertain to our government.
You’ll Learn:
[00:39] Mike shares his background and why this class exists. He was born in a Christian family in a small town in Idaho. His parents were very active in government and public affairs.
[01:54] When he was 8 or 9 years old, he wanted to go to an economics conference with his dad.
[04:14] A powerful time to learn is when someone is in their youth.
[05:03] Mike's parents were very involved in the pro-life movement and had film strips about being pro-life, and Mike ran the slides as a kid. He ended up watching a lot of these materials repeatedly.
[06:59] He was also involved in debate and majored in political science.
[07:38] His first candidate was the Aqua Velva man.
[09:51] We can't win office without people whose hearts and minds are sensitive to our persuasion.
[10:22] Our society needs more work understanding good principles of government.
[11:42] According to a large survey, people wanted help with voting like good Christians. The course, Christian Citizenship was created.
[13:10] Mike eventually began the nonprofit the Institute for Principal Studies.
[13:39] Education is a precursor to action.
[18:14] Relativism is a philosophical concept that says there are no absolutes.
[21:10] Finding the bright line.
[26:04] Discussing philosophy and the nature of man with friends and neighbors. Using the decision tree and persuasion.
[28:46] Finding the real source of a debate.
[31:51] The God ordained government institutions in the Bible consisting of self-government, family government, church government, and civil government.
[37:10] The first fork in the road with civil government is the creationism and evolution debate.
[41:37] If biological evolution is true then there must be social evolution. If so, our laws will need to evolve.
[46:05] Finding the real reason for the Holocaust and Hitler being a follower of Charles Darwin.
[46:56] Ideas have consequences. Evolutionary thinking can be dangerous.
[51:42] Oakbrook College of Law.
Your Resources:Books to browse
Genetic Entropy & the Mystery of the Genome
Oakbrook College of Law
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