The relationship between ecclesiastical power and civil authority has been a subject of theological and political discourse throughout history. From a biblical perspective, the notion that ecclesiastical authority holds a superior position to civil power, even to the extent of appointing kings, finds its roots in various scriptural passages and historical interpretations.

Biblical Foundations

The Bible presents several instances where divine authority, often mediated through religious figures, plays a crucial role in the appointment and legitimacy of kings. One of the most prominent examples is the anointing of King Saul and later King David by the prophet Samuel. In 1 Samuel 10:1 , Samuel anoints Saul, saying, "Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?" This act signifies that Saul's kingship is not merely a political appointment but a divine ordination.

Similarly, David's anointing is described in 1 Samuel 16:13 : "So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David from that day forward." Here, the ecclesiastical act of anointing is directly linked to the divine approval and empowerment of a king.

The Role of Prophets and Priests

Throughout the Old Testament, prophets and priests often serve as intermediaries between God and the rulers of Israel. Their role in appointing and advising kings underscores the belief that civil authority is subject to divine will. For instance, the prophet Nathan plays a crucial role in the reign of King David, providing guidance and correction as seen in 2 Samuel 12:1-14 , where Nathan confronts David about his sin with Bathsheba.

The priesthood also holds significant influence, as seen in the account of Jehoiada the priest, who orchestrates the crowning of Joash as king in 2 Kings 11:12 : "Then Jehoiada brought out the king’s son, put the crown on him, presented him with the Testimony, and proclaimed him king. They anointed him and the people clapped their hands and shouted, 'Long live the king!'"

Divine Sovereignty and Human Authority

The overarching theme in these biblical narratives is the sovereignty of God over human affairs, including the governance of nations. Proverbs 21:1 states, "The king’s heart is a waterway in the hand of the LORD; He directs it where He pleases." This verse highlights the belief that even the most powerful earthly rulers are ultimately subject to God's will.

In the New Testament, the relationship between church and state is further explored. Jesus' statement in John 19:11 to Pontius Pilate, "You would have no authority over Me if it were not given to you from above," reinforces the idea that all earthly authority is granted by God.

Historical Interpretations

Throughout church history, the concept of ecclesiastical power being superior to civil authority has been a point of contention and development. The medieval church, particularly during the papacy of figures like Gregory VII, asserted the church's authority over secular rulers, claiming the right to appoint and depose kings. This was based on the belief that spiritual authority, derived from God, supersedes temporal power.

The investiture controversy of the 11th and 12th centuries exemplifies this struggle, as popes and emperors clashed over the right to appoint bishops and invest them with temporal authority. The church's assertion of power was rooted in the belief that spiritual well-being and divine order were paramount, and thus, ecclesiastical authority had the right to influence or determine civil leadership.

Conclusion

The biblical and historical perspectives on the relationship between church and state, particularly the notion of ecclesiastical power appointing kings, reflect a complex interplay of divine sovereignty, spiritual authority, and human governance. These themes continue to influence theological and political discussions in various Christian traditions.1 Samuel 10:1
Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured it on his head, and kissed him, and said, Is it not because the LORD has anointed you to be captain over his inheritance?
Nave's Topical Index

Of the Beginning and Rise of the Romish Papacy, Till it Attained a ...
... other bishops, but to each single church, tearing and ... too insulting, and too foreign
to ecclesiastical rule, to ... not ashamed to defend the existing state of the ...
/.../calvin/the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 7 of the beginning.htm

Of the True Church. Duty of Cultivating Unity with Her, as the ...
... Answer from a consideration of the state of the ... Nicene Creed, as quoted in
Ecclesiastical History, adds ... renounce the communion of the Church, nor, continuing ...
/.../calvin/the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 1 of the true.htm

Period iv. The Age of the Consolidation of the Church: 200 to 324 ...
... us a certain woman who in a state of ecstasy ... lost the fellowship of the
Church.{HORIZONTAL ELLIPSIS ... authority, whatever reason, restores ecclesiastical peace ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period iv the age of.htm

Peter Stood Up.
... we restore all that belongs to ecclesiastical right within ... emperor Anastasius in
518, the political state of the East and West was most perilous to the Church. ...
/.../allies/the formation of christendom volume vi/chapter iii peter stood up.htm

The Psalter of Solomon.
... by Ewald in his history of the Jewish Church; and although ... enter into his view; nor
does he state what shall ... Ecclesiastical Greek recognises sunaxis--communion. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/deane/pseudepigrapha/the psalter of solomon.htm

City of God
... Chapter 22.--Whence the Saints Derive Power Against Demons and ... Chapter 14.--In What
State Man Was Made by ... Make Figures In Every Respect Christ and the Church. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/augustine/city of god/

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