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The concept of Earthly power in Christianity

In Protestantism, Earthly power is defined as the authority that exists within the worldly realm, distinguishing it from divine authority. Early Christianity similarly views Earthly power as the governance held by leaders, which Jesus critiques for its flawed judgment regarding truth. This perspective highlights a tension between human governance and the spiritual truths advocated by Jesus, emphasizing the limitations of secular authority.

Synonyms: Temporal authority, Worldly power

In Swedish: Jordisk kraft; In Malay: Kuasa duniawi; In German: Irdische Macht; In Spanish: Poder terrenal; In Finnish: Maallinen voima; In Dutch: Aardse kracht; In French: Pouvoir terrestre

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Earthly power'

Christianity Books

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Ante-nicene Fathers

(1) Earthly power is something that the foe may use to subvert a man's faith, and it is one of the ways that the foe tries to make people sin.[1] (2) The authority held by those in positions of governance, which Jesus criticizes as flawed in its judgment of truth.[2]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.

Significance in Global Christian community:
Catholic Church Books

From: The city of God

(1) The text mentions that human history and human destiny are not wholly identified with the history of any earthly power, not even as cosmopolitan as the empire of Rome.[3]

From: Summa Theologica (English translation)

(1) The earthly powers coerce evil-doers, as it is written in the text, according to the provided text, when discussing the angelic orders.[4]

The Catholic Church is a global Christian community with over a billion members, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is led by the Pope and emphasizes the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist. Catholicism is a denomination centered on the teachings thereof. It has a rich theological and cultural heritage.

Significance in Protestantism (Christian movement emphasizing faith and scripture):
Protestantism Books

From: The Existence and Attributes of God

(1) Refers to the authority that exists within the worldly realm, as opposed to divine authority.[5]

Protestantism (or simply the protestant church) is a major branch of Christianity originating from the Reformation in the 16th century, led by figures like Martin Luther. It emphasizes salvation by faith alone and the Bible as the ultimate authority. Variants of Protestantism include Lutheranism, Calvinism, Anglicanism, Methodism and Presbyterianism, each with unique practices but generally united by these core principles.