Libertarianism is not a Christian Worldview (not even close!)

The recent surge of Ron Paul in the Iowa Caucuses has brought the Libertarian philosophy once again into the spotlight. Even though this perspective has always been on the fringe of American politics, some evangelical Christians have embraced this line of thought. This is tragic. Why? Because Libertarianism is far from being a Christian worldview. To be sure, the conservative and liberal philosophies are not explicitly Christian. Nevertheless, the Libertarian approach is especially troublesome. Here are a few examples:

“Moral Issues” – Libertarians have a hands off approach on many moral and social issues. This is clearly a rebellion against authority. These people want to be the master of their own fates. They are repulsed at the idea of a government restricting certain kinds of behaviors. In fact, this is surely one of the main God-appointed roles for government. The Libertarian rejects this. Their outlook reminds a person of the time of the Judges in the Old Testament. The blunt assessment of that time was that people did what was right in their own eyes. 

“Foreign Policy” – Libertarians have an extreme isolationist attitude regarding America’s involvement around the world. Not only does this lack practicality, but it is also inherently selfish. Humanly speaking, the United States has historically done much good around the world. America needs to continue this tradition. For sure, these actions need to be intermingled with discernment and wisdom. Nonetheless, America cannot isolate itself and be content to let the rest world to crumble.

“Economics” – Libertarians have an irrational approach to the economy of the United States. They believe the solution is to have little or no involvement from the government in regulating or influencing the economy. The vast majority of Americans do indeed believe that the government is too heavy-handed. However, the solution is not to go to the extreme of having no government involvement.

This is certainly a broad summary of the dangers of the Libertarian philosophy. Thankfully, it will always remain on the fringe of American politics. The real concern is that some true Christians are willing to embrace such a way of thinking. Libertarianism seems to be an arrogant, selfish, and independent approach to government and society. If so, it has no place within the Christian community. Rather, we should strive to please God by understanding and respecting the role that government can play in the sovereign purposes of God.