Spirit of Prophecy Counsels Relating To Church-State Relationships

All Earthly Power Under God’s Control

All earthly powers are under the control of the Infinite one. To the mightiest ruler, to the most cruel oppressor, He says, “Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further.” God’s power is constantly exercised to counteract the agencies of evil: He is ever at work among men, not for their destruction, but for their correction and preservation.—Patriarchs and Prophets, 694. SPCCSR 17.1