Integrating faith and politics can be difficult. One can debate whether to completely separate faith and politics or fully integrate the two. It can also be considered a balanced middle ground between separation and integration. Examples of each can be seen in the story. The complete separation of faith and politics has consequences (both positive and negative). A government separated from faith may be efficient, but very inhumane and controlling. Complete integration of faith and politics is influenced by God and the Bible, but can be just as controlling as complete separation. Multiple disagreements in Christian doctrine would also cause further challenges to the government. Having a middle ground where only certain aspects of government are influenced by religion can pose problems in some areas. The middle path could allow Christians to spread the Gospel (which is the goal of the Church). When comparing these three options, you can see one option emerge as an obvious choice. The middle ground between separation and integration is where the Church can remain relevant in politics and participate in the Great Commission. The complete separation between faith and politics can be reflected throughout history. The early church theologians often had a very apolitical philosophy. The early church felt obligated to honor the government, but tended to stay away from all political affairs (Bandow 1988, 123). One of the first theologians who created this philosophy was Tertullian. Tertullian states that Christians should have very little contact with the state, refuse to serve in the army or even attend state schools. In Tertullian's time martyrdom was frequent. ...... half of the paper ...... just. It is also dangerous for the state to govern Christian doctrinal views. When politics and faith mix in only some areas, a more just and balanced approach to government can be formed. It gives the people religious free will and leaves the great commission to the Church. The only negative consequence can be controlled by the participation of Christians in the political process. When you evaluate all aspects of each option, you can see that partly mixing faith and politics is the best option. Works Cited Bandow Doug. Beyond good intentions. Illinois: Crossway Books, 1988. Wuthnow Robert. Christianity and civil society. Pennsylvania: Trinity Press International, 1996Hicks Laurel, Thompson George T., Lowman Michael R., Cochran George C.. American Government and Politics in Christian Perspective. Florida: Beka Book Publications, 1984.