the temptation of power

Jacques Ellul wrote:

"We have to say very forcefully that we see here the perversion of revelation by participation in politics, by the seeking of power. The church lets itself be seduced, invaded, dominated by the ease with which it can now spread the gospel by force (another force than that of God) and use its influence to make the state, too, Christian. It is great acquiescence to the temptation Jesus himself resisted, for when Satan offers to give him all the kingdoms of earth, Jesus refuses, but the church accepts, not realizing from whom it is receiving the kingdoms."

This so reminds me of the agenda of the so-called "Christian right" which has been so powerful over the past few decades. It would be wise to note from whom they receive their power and influence.

Jacques Ellul, "The Subversion of Christianity", p.124