What is the Divine Right of Kings?

Definition and Historical Background

The term “Divine Right of Kings” generally refers to the belief that the monarch’s authority to rule is granted directly by God. Historically, this view emerged prominently in medieval and early modern Europe, undergirding the position that no earthly institution could legitimately challenge or depose a king who was believed to hold divine sanction. Notable examples include the reigns of English and French monarchs who claimed their right to rule by virtue of Heaven’s appointment. This doctrine was used to affirm that questioning the monarch’s authority was tantamount to questioning God. The foundation of this concept, though it took cultural shape in various ways, is often associated with certain interpretations of biblical passages that speak of God’s sovereignty over kings and kingdoms.

Biblical Passages Consulted

Throughout Scripture, there are frequent references to kingship and God’s divine prerogative in raising up and removing rulers. Several verses often cited in discussions of the Divine Right of Kings include:

• Romans 13:1: “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God.”

• Daniel 2:21: “He changes the times and seasons; He removes kings and establishes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.”

These passages have commonly been understood to mean that God, in His sovereignty, has control over the appointment of rulers. However, further context and cross-references in Scripture cause many to reflect on the careful balance between a king’s divine appointment and the king’s responsibility to rule in accordance with God’s law.

Foundations in the Old Testament

1. Kingship Established Among Israel

In the Old Testament, Israel’s demand for a king is recorded in 1 Samuel 8. Although the prophet Samuel warned the people of the potential abuses a monarch could commit, God ultimately instructed Samuel to anoint Saul as king. Later, Saul’s replacement, David, is described in Scripture as “a man after God’s own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14). These events highlight the concept that while human kingship was established under God’s direction, kings were expected to remain accountable to divine standards.

2. Deuteronomic Counsel for Kings

Deuteronomy 17 outlines the obligations and responsibilities of a king in ancient Israel, emphasizing the monarch’s subjection to God’s commandments. Deuteronomy 17:18–19 notes, “When he takes the throne of his kingdom, he is to write for himself a copy of this instruction on a scroll… He is to read from it all the days of his life, so that he may learn to fear the LORD his God.” This guidance highlights the importance of the king’s submission to divine law. Contrary to the later medieval assertion of absolute monarchs, the biblical perspective was that the king should humble himself under God’s revealed word.

3. Prophetic Critiques and the Accountability of Kings

Scripture provides numerous examples of prophets who confronted errant kings on God’s behalf. Elijah confronted King Ahab (1 Kings 18–19), Nathan rebuked King David (2 Samuel 12), and other prophets likewise addressed abuses of power. These confrontations illustrate that while authority is granted by God, it is neither irrevocable nor unaccountable. The monarchy’s standing depends upon obedience to—or rebellion against—the covenant relationship with God.

Kingship in the New Testament

1. Recognition of Earthly Authority

Passages such as Romans 13:1–7 and 1 Peter 2:13–14 urge believers to respect and submit to governing authorities, as they serve a function ordained by God to maintain order and punish wrongdoing. These passages have at times served as key texts in support of a Divine Right concept. However, the broader New Testament context stresses that human rulers, too, are under God’s judgment and righteous decrees, implying that their authority is not unrestricted.

2. Christ the True and Ultimate King

The New Testament consistently points to Christ as the supreme King, the One who fulfills the promises made to David (Luke 1:32–33). Jesus is described as “King of kings and Lord of lords” (Revelation 19:16). His example of humble service and sacrificial leadership contrasts with the notion that a human monarch can claim unquestioned authority. Instead, a ruler’s authority is tested against the backdrop of Jesus’ model of righteous and selfless leadership.

Medieval and Early Modern Interpretations

1. Development of the Doctrine

During the medieval period, some theologians, statesmen, and monarchs referenced biblical texts (e.g., Romans 13) to argue that kings were placed on the throne by God’s will and thus functioned as His representatives on earth. This view was often invoked to justify the king’s absolute authority and to resist calls for checks and balances.

2. Controversy and Challenges

In the British Isles, monarchs like King James I famously promoted this view. However, conflict emerged when reformers and parliamentarians argued that God’s law also endowed subjects with the right to depose or resist oppressive rulers who contravened Scripture’s moral standards. Historical events, such as the English Civil War, tested and ultimately altered how one might apply the principle of a divinely sanctioned monarchy.

Critiques and Theological Considerations

1. Scriptural Limitations on Royal Power

Many interpreters highlight the significant biblical checks placed on monarchs: from Deuteronomy’s instructions, to the warnings of prophets, to the example of Jesus Himself who taught servant leadership (Mark 10:42–45). These restrictions demonstrate that while a king may be placed in power by God, it does not follow that the king can wield his authority arbitrarily or without spiritual accountability.

2. Ultimate Sovereignty Belongs to God

Genuine biblical teachings emphasize that God alone holds ultimate authority over kings and kingdoms. Daniel 4:34–35 records Nebuchadnezzar’s recognition of this truth: “His dominion is an everlasting dominion, and His kingdom endures from generation to generation… He does as He pleases with the host of heaven and the peoples of the earth.” This underscores that no earthly ruler can rightly claim unchallengeable power independent from God.

Modern Perspectives on the Doctrine

In contemporary theological study, interpretations vary, but there is broad agreement that God’s sovereignty stands supreme. Societies have gone on to institute diverse forms of government—from constitutional monarchies to democratic republics—that still recognize that all governmental authority has limits and is subject to ethical and divine scrutiny. The principle consistently upheld in Scripture is that any king or leader sins against God if ruling with cruelty or neglecting righteousness.

Conclusion

The Divine Right of Kings, historically influential in shaping monarchy and governance, is a doctrine rooted in the biblical recognition of God as the source of authority. However, as demonstrated through scriptural teachings, that authority is not intended to be absolute or autonomous. Rulers are held accountable to God’s standards, a principle affirmed by the numerous scriptural admonitions to kings, as well as by narratives of prophets who rebuked them.

While human expressions of the Divine Right of Kings throughout history have varied, the overarching biblical message is that God is the ultimate King. Earthly rulers chosen by God should govern responsibly, in submission to His commands, ever mindful that they are but stewards of authority that belongs first and foremost to Him.