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Mike Winther continues his mission of teaching government and economics from a biblical perspective. This lecture focuses on how change begins outside the ballot box. Mike shares how he had an early interest in government and political science. It all began with his dad who was a student of history and led to Mike majoring in political science and going on to found IPS and share these lectures.
We learn about Mike’s journey from settling in California to forming a full-time ministry. Mike dives into the fundamental question behind IPS and that is what is the proper role of civil government. Who do you want to run your economy? That’s the wrong question. We should be asking if our government should be running our economy at all. Mike dives into all of this and more in his quest to educate the public about biblical principles and government.
You’ll Learn:
- [01:22] Mike’s dad was a student of history. Mike read about the founding fathers in high school and was involved in debate and attended political rallies. He also majored in political science.
- [03:41] Even 40 years ago, college professors were in favor of Marxism. They did support freedom of speech at that time.
- [04:36] Mike wanted to change the world by running political campaigns.
- [05:25] Mike noticed that the candidates that he supported couldn’t get elected. He then settled in Modesto, California and began working for a nonprofit organization.
- [08:11] From a church survey, the number three most common need was understanding politics and how to understand and navigate the political system.
- [14:30] What is the proper role of civil government? The root of all issues can be answered once this question is explored.
- [15:28] There’s a formula and scripture for taking care of the poor and the needy.
- [16:29] The church should be the main provider of charity for believers and unbelievers alike.
- [20:18] There are times in history when prosperity went up when the government was more hands off with the economy.
- [21:49] What is the principle behind a bank running the money supply?
- [23:03] How can Christians live a more biblical civic life?
- [25:48] Part of the gospel is learning what the proper role of the civil magistrate actually is. This is the goal for changing culture.
- [34:50] Mike gives observations about election principles. Our goal should be to know and teach the truth, so elections are won by wide margins.
- [37:22] The way to win elections in the future is to change hearts and minds along the way.