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jmp speculates:
In other words, from a practical standpoint, everyone has to agree that this is possible. For, no matter what one's view of the role of civil gov't is in the New Covenant, it is undeniable that God required it to enforce His laws in the Old (externally). Accordingly, we shouldn't be surprised that it is possible to do it externally.
Well, not everyone has to agree, for I surely do not and I know a host of others who likewise would take issue with you on this matter. May I offer a counter remark and say that it would be nearly impossible for the government of the U.S. to enforce laws prohibiting idolatry, homosexuality, adultery, blaspheme, etc., etc., ad nauseam, when the fact is that the vast, overwhelming majority of those in power, including but not restricted to those in the legislative, judicial and enforcement departments are those who violate these same laws. Secondly, if the police are unable to control protesters, attendees of rock concerts who get out of hand, etc., how would it be possible to arrest 10's of millions of "law breakers"? Thirdly, even if this were possible theoretically, how would the judgments be enforced? There certainly are not enough jails now to house current criminals, never mind 10's of millions of people.

Lastly, the difference which seems to be constantly ignored by Theonomist/Reconstructionists is that Israel was a THEOCRACY, which was a temporal arrangement. Having served its purpose, it was cast off never again to return. To impose theocratic laws, etc., upon the new covenant administration of the gospel is simply indefensible. What we await with unfeigned hope is the New Heaven and New Earth, not some anti-climatic earthly replica. <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

In His Grace,

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simul iustus et peccator

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