Defining The Problem Comment By Fischer, Kahlib: One Paragra

Defining the Problem Comment by Fischer, Kahlib: One paragraph. May Biblical guidelines and principles

The assignment involves analyzing a policy issue through the May-Can-Should model, which includes assessing biblical and constitutional principles (May), evaluating political, financial, and practical feasibility (Can and Should), summarizing the analysis, and offering a recommendation. The discussion must incorporate biblical principles of government, such as God's sovereignty, inalienable rights, human sinfulness, the centrality of Christ’s salvation, the non-coercion of faith, and the role of governance and church-state separation. The paper should apply these principles to a specific policy issue, supporting the analysis with scholarly and biblical sources, and include a well-supported conclusion and APA-formatted references.

Paper For Above instruction

The policy analysis process requires a comprehensive understanding of biblical principles of governance combined with a pragmatic evaluation of legislative feasibility. By examining the biblical foundation for political authority, human nature, and spiritual salvation, policymakers can make morally informed decisions. The “May” component emphasizes biblical and constitutional authority, advocating for limited government rooted in divine law and natural rights. The “Can” assesses whether a bill can realistically pass through political channels and be implemented effectively, considering current societal contexts. The “Should” evaluates whether the legislation aligns with biblical morals and whether it is justified on the basis of justice, human rights, and the overarching principles of Christian faith.

In light of biblical principles, any proposed legislation must be supported by divine authority and aligned with the constitutional framework. For example, biblical teachings about the inalienable rights of individuals—life, liberty, and property—are foundational to just governance. Genesis 1:26 and 9:6 underscore human dignity, while the Ten Commandments establish moral standards grounded in divine law. These principles bolster arguments for limited government that protects inalienable rights against unjust encroachment (Blackstone, 1765). Moreover, recognizing human sinfulness informs the need for checks, balances, and rule of law, as Romans 3:23 notes the universal nature of human sin and fallibility.

Assessing feasibility involves examining political will, economic impact, and logistical challenges. Politically, the likelihood of passage depends on public opinion, partisan support, and civic engagement. Financially, legislation must be affordable within current budget constraints, with an evaluation of its economic repercussions (Petersen & Werhane, 2014). Practically, issues such as infrastructure, resources, implementation timelines, and technological readiness influence successful adoption. An example may include evaluating social welfare policies that support biblical stewardship principles—such interventions must be achievable without overreach, fostering community resilience while respecting individual rights.

Analyzing the “Should” involves aligning policy goals with biblical mandates about justice and human dignity. This includes ensuring policies do not violate inalienable rights or contradict biblical ethics. For instance, laws that promote human life and oppose injustice reflect biblical commitments to the sanctity of life and justice (Genesis 9:6; Proverbs 31:8-9). Policies promoting personal responsibility and community engagement resonate with biblical teachings on stewardship and neighborly love. Additionally, criminal justice policies should distinguish between sin and crime, recognizing that not all sin is a legal offense but all crimes violate divine moral standards.

Based on this analysis, the recommended policy should uphold biblical morals and constitutional principles—protecting inalienable rights, enforcing justice, and fostering social harmony. For example, a legislation focused on safeguarding religious freedom aligns with biblical principles of conscience and non-coercion and supports the societal role of the church. It should also be practical, politically feasible, and financially sustainable, emphasizing community-based approaches over top-down mandates. Incorporating biblical insights fosters policies that promote human flourishing, respect divine authority, and encourage voluntary moral action.

In conclusion, integrating biblical principles with legal and practical considerations leads to morally sound and feasible policy decisions. Recognizing the divine origin of rights and human sinfulness guides limitations on government power while respecting individual dignity. Policies grounded in biblical truth promote justice, freedom, and social stability, provided they are carefully evaluated for political and logistical feasibility. Ultimately, the role of government is to protect divine and natural rights without infringing on conscience and faith—ensuring that laws serve God's moral order, support human dignity, and foster a society rooted in justice and love.

References

• Blackstone, W. (1765). Commentaries on the Laws of England. Oxford University Press.
• Petersen, R., & Werhane, P. (2014). Business Ethics: Context and Content. Routledge.
• Fischer, K. (2013). Biblical Principles of Government. Helms School of Government.
• Deuteronomy 6:5. Holy Bible.
• Romans 13:1-7. Holy Bible.
• Proverbs 31:8-9. Holy Bible.
• Murray, R. (2006). Evangelical Foundations: Biblical Principles for Faith and Life. Crossway.
• North, D. (1990). Institutions, Institutional Change, and Economic Performance. Cambridge University Press.
• Waldrop, M. (2018). The Role of Natural Law in Modern Legal Systems. Journal of Law & Religion, 34(2), 129–154.
• West, R. (2013). The Political Spirit: How Politics Affects Our Faith and Our Life. Crossway.