What is the purpose of civil authorities as indicated by Scripture?

The purpose of civil authorities, as indicated by Scripture, is primarily to punish evil and promote good. This is rooted in biblical passages, such as Romans 13:1-4, which outlines the role of governing bodies as instituted by God. In this context, civil authorities are seen as agents of God's justice, tasked with maintaining order and righteousness in society. Their function includes enforcing laws that deter wrongdoing and support virtuous behavior, thereby creating a framework in which community members can live in peace.

While promoting personal freedoms and imposing taxes can be components of a government's responsibilities, they are not the fundamental purpose outlined in Scripture. The focus on punishing evil and promoting good highlights the moral and ethical dimensions of civil governance, illustrating that authority is a means through which divine order is maintained in society.