'Providence, Piety and Power' by John Petley (RoperPenberthy Publishing, 2012, 352 pages, available from the publisher for £14.99. Also available from the Telegraph bookshop and from Amazon)

This book, subtitled 'Biblical government and the modern State', argues that religion has a vital role to play in modern political and social affairs. The author, a former political researcher in Brussels, insists on the relevance of Scripture to current problems and maintains there is an overarching divine Providence watching over us and weighing us in the balance.

Biblical Perspective on Politics

Petley's main thesis is to question the size of the State, suggesting it has grown far too large, with a power and influence now well beyond its Biblical mandate. For instance, the belief than more and more state spending will in itself increase wealth and economic growth has led to "a far greater role for the state in managing a nation's economy than the Bible condones" (p241).

The author asks: how much should be entrusted to a State that does not espouse Biblical principles? In answering he often reverts back to Calvin's distinction between spiritual government and political or civil government. He would agree, for instance, that Government is "God's ordained method of restraining evil" (p82), something that is always necessary in a fallen world.

He would also allow the State a role in regulating commerce, to ensure greater fairness and honesty, and that it should legislate to protect the vulnerable in society, but "the actual caring process – feeding the hungry, nursing the sick and dying – is the responsibility of individuals and communities" (p48).

The author asks: how much should be entrusted to a State that does not espouse biblical principles?

Anti-Socialist

He firmly believes in smaller government, one which performs only those functions ordained for it in the Bible, rather than a 'nanny state' in charge from the cradle to the grave. The author is very much against socialism, something to be aware of when approaching his book. He claims that "the fundamental principles that undergird socialism are totally at odds with the Bible" (p173) and admits that "this book argues strongly that Christianity and socialism are incompatible" (p205).

Overall, his verdict on socialism's big state is one of constant failure as it is built upon a rejection of Biblical teaching. So - be prepared for political bias and controversial statements!

Petley has a strong anti-socialist agenda, and is a firm believer in small government.

Christian Worldview

But the author has genuinely looked for a Biblical perspective in current affairs and thoughtfully considered the development of Christian political thinking down the ages in order to use it as a yardstick for today. The first half of the book largely attempts to develop a Christian worldview, and considers how departures from historic Christianity (for example, deism) have affected political thinking in the past.

There is also great relevance to the debate on Europe and EU membership, and to some extent he has foreseen (in 2012) the shake-up of the political landscape that is now emerging.

Christian Voices in Politics

In concluding, he stresses the urgent need for the Christian voice to be heard again in the political arena, and adds some advice on how to get involved. He explains he wrote this book to "inspire Christians to work actively towards a government in their nation that will be characterised by that righteousness which comes through obedience to the Word of God" (p332).

Here is a book on a fascinating area that many Christians don't consider enough or think through in detail. He may not always persuade you, but you will become better informed.

Here is a book on a fascinating area – he may not always persuade you, but you will become better informed.