Readers of these commentaries know that the entire staff of TPOL are both libertarians (anarchists) and followers of Christ Jesus (Christians). We know that many people of faith, and many lovers of liberty do not believe the two concepts are compatible. Obviously, we disagree with that. Indeed, most of us, at one time or another, have stated publicly that we are lovers of liberty and anarchists because we were first and are christians. (We prefer the lower case: we accept no denominational labels.)

Of course, even in these States with the concepts of religious freedom and separation of “church and state” we know that many in this land (perhaps even a majority) believe it is wrong to mix politics and religion. We reject that categorically.

It is interesting that mainstream media – typified by MSN – is generally hostile to religion. Not just organized religion (“churches” and “mosques” and “synagogues”) but any faith. (Except, perhaps, the worship of the omnipotent state.) So when MSN publishes an article “14 Profound Ways the Bible Has Shaped Our Culture and Values” it is worth looking at and commenting on.

So let us do so:

1. Leadership and governance – the Bible provides many good examples.
2. Sanctity of life – the Bible teaches that life is present, shaping views on abortion, euthanasia, and death penalty.
3. Marriage and family – the Bible shapes how we view this important part of life.
4. Human right[s] – the Bible teaches that everyone is created in the image of God.
5. Laws and justice – the Bible expresses principles that legal systems around the world are based on.
6. Concept of rest – the Bible teaches about taking a day off each week (Sabbath in the Old Testament) and impacts work and personal life.
7. Hope and resilience – the Bible teaches that hope and strength in struggling comes from having faith.
8. Forgiveness and reconciliation – the Bible emphasizes forgiveness leading to healing and peace.
9. Education – the Bible emphasizes wisdom and learning.
10. Moral responsibility – the Bible’s teaching includes personal and communal responsibility: that actions have consequences and we are accountable to God and one another.
11. Art and culture – the Bible inspires all kinds of music, art, writing, and performance.
12. Work ethic – the Bible teaches that hard work is important, as is treating others well as we work.
13. Charity and compassion – the Bible emphasizes charity (giving) and compassion: looking out for and helping others.
14. Holidays and festivals – the Bible is a source of stories and events which are celebrated by many cultures on a recurring basis.

It is clear that we could comment for thousands of words on how these principles are ideals of some cultures and societies. Ideals seldom if ever fully achieved. It is also clear that many of these concepts – these ideals – have in no way been fully achieved.

We here at TPOL have little to disagree with on this list of biblical impacts. We believe that any objective observer will agree that the Bible certainly has impacted, influenced, and shaped American society and that of much – even most – of the world. There might be considerable disagreement on the desirability of these impacts. But no disagreement over the fact that the Bible has been just one of many influences, and that society has not (for good or bad) totally embraced a biblical view in these fourteen things.

That said, publishing something this could easily be seen as showcasing the hypocrisy of the mainstream media and many in society. First, the MSM is constantly promoting many things which are the exact opposite of what this article portrays as “good” and beneficial ways the Bible has shaped our culture and values. Especially here in the States. Second, the MSM demonstrates considerable effort to delegitimizing the Bible, denying its truth and importance, and attacking those who believe it and follow it – especially as the Word of God.

For now, dear reader, consider how these “profound ways” are contrary to the principles of liberty and supportive of human government. We here at TPOL can find nothing in these fourteen points that opposes human liberty, and much that promotes and encourages liberty and freedom – the concepts of individual liberty and responsibility that Democrats and Republicans reject (even while paying lip service to them). As do virtually all flavors of political parties. And we find nothing that supports or advocates for mandatory human government in these points or in Scripture.

To us, the sad thing about this list is that so few of these values are found in our culture – certainly not in every part of our culture and society. And that so many of these fundamental values are rejected by so many people and groups – including political parties, institutions, and of course, all kinds of government. Not only rejected but actively attacked for various reasons.

Put simply, and perhaps to disagree with many libertarians, a truly human and mature society and civilization will be built on these and other biblical principles, and not on so-called principles of political economy.

Realizing that the very subject of this commentary will disturb, anger, and even offend some readers, we ask for your comments and thoughts on the subject and this vision of liberty. We again end with this quote from Leviticus: “Proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants!”