The Clash of Sovereignties: Jacques Ellul's The Politics of God and the Politics of Man

An Election Day Reflection on Theology and Human Governance

I was first introduced to the writings of Jacques Ellul in the mid-Seventies through an article in Radix magazine. Ellul was a French lawyer/theologian/philosopher and author of something like 40 books. What interested me, besides his perceptive thinking and pointed writing, was how he wrote differently based on the audience he was addressing. His secular books such as The Technological Society and Propaganda: The Formation of Men's Attitudes have become classics, providing understanding of key forces shaping contemporary life.

The Politics of God and the Politics of Man, one of his many books directed toward Christian audiences, (e.g. False Presence of the Kingdom) was one of the first Ellul books that I read/purchased. From the very start he shows a keen understanding of how political structures work. The book opened my eyes to a different way of looking at political influence.

  

He begins by examining the biblical narratives, particularly focusing on the stories from the Old Testament. He argues that the Bible presents a distinct form of political thought, one that is inherently suspicious of human institutions of power and authority. Ellul proposes that while God's politics are centered around justice, mercy, and humility, human politics often succumb to pride, violence, and self-interest.

The "Politics of God," in Ellul's view, is fundamentally different from human political systems. It is not about domination or control, but about service and sacrificial love. Ellul uses the example of the prophets and their often contentious relationship with the rulers of Israel to illustrate his point. The prophets serve as the voice of God, calling for repentance and justice, and standing in stark opposition to the corrupt practices of kings and rulers.

In contrast, the "Politics of Man" is characterized by the pursuit of power and the maintenance of control. Ellul critiques the ways in which religious institutions often align themselves with political power, betraying the very principles they are supposed to uphold. He is particularly critical of how the church has historically sought to legitimize political authority, often at the expense of its prophetic mission.

We saw in the era of the Medicis, we saw it in the Church of England, and we see this compromised position today.

The book is important because of its ongoing relevance to contemporary political and social issues. Although the book focuses on biblical times, Ellul draws parallels to modern political dynamics, encouraging readers to question the ways in which power is exercised and justified in their own contexts. His critique of the complicity between religion and politics remains pertinent, urging a re-examination of how religious communities engage with political systems today.

Ellul's background as a theologian and philosopher shines through in his nuanced analysis. There were many "Aha!" insights, which makes me think I should go back and read it again.

He does not merely offer a critique but also provides a theological framework for understanding the relationship between faith and politics. His insights are grounded in a deep understanding of scripture, yet he presents them in a way that is accessible to readers from diverse backgrounds.

If you can find a copy of this book I believe you'll be rewarded by Ellul’s incisive analysis of both religious and political institutions. For those interested in theology, political philosophy, or the intersection of faith and public life, Ellul’s work is a thought-provoking contribution.