Church Secularist Quote by Richard J. Mouw
““For Kuyper, both of these models embody a fundamental error. The medieval perspective rightly acknowledged God's rule over all cultural activity, but it mistakenly thought that this rule was to be mediated by the church. The secularist perspective rightly wanted to liberate culture from ecclesiastical control, but it wrongly insisted that to do so was to take it out from under God's rule. Kuyper's alternative is summarized in the "not one square inch" manifesto. God's soverign rule extends over all of our lives. All that we do takes place-to use a favorite kuyperian phrase-Coram Deo before the face of God.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Theology and the Crisis of Cultural Authority, 1995
Kuyper argues that both medieval and secularist models err by misplacing God's rule either within the church or outside any divine oversight, insisting instead that God governs every aspect of life.
In simple terms: God rules everything, not just church or secular spheres.
Key Takeaway
Recognize God's authority in all daily actions.
Themes
theology
culture
authority
integrity
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal decision making
- political policy
- artistic creation
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
sovereignty
cosmology
public theology
Questions to Reflect On
- How does acknowledging God's rule affect your everyday choices?
- Can secular governance respect divine sovereignty?
A Different Perspective
The claim may overlook practical pluralism and individual autonomy.
