The concept of "The State of Society" in biblical terms encompasses the moral, spiritual, and social conditions of human communities as depicted throughout Scripture. The Bible provides a comprehensive view of society's state, highlighting both its potential for righteousness and its propensity for sin.

Creation and the Ideal Society

In the beginning, God created a perfect society in the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve lived in harmony with God and creation (Genesis 2:8-25). This initial state reflects God's design for human relationships and societal order, characterized by peace, obedience, and communion with the Creator.

The Fall and Its Impact on Society

The fall of man, as described in Genesis 3, introduced sin into the world, fundamentally altering the state of society. The disobedience of Adam and Eve led to a fractured relationship with God, resulting in a society marked by sin, suffering, and death. Genesis 6:5 illustrates the extent of this corruption: "Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great upon the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was altogether evil all the time."

The Law and Societal Order

God's giving of the Law to Israel through Moses was a divine intervention to guide society towards righteousness. The Law provided moral, ceremonial, and civil instructions to establish a just and holy community. Deuteronomy 6:5-7 emphasizes the importance of these commandments: "And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. Teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up."

Prophets and the Call to Righteousness

Throughout the Old Testament, prophets were sent by God to call society back to righteousness and justice. They often addressed the moral decay and social injustices prevalent in their times. For instance, Micah 6:8 declares, "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"

The New Testament and the Kingdom of God

The New Testament introduces the concept of the Kingdom of God, a transformative vision for society inaugurated by Jesus Christ. In Matthew 5-7, the Sermon on the Mount outlines the ethical and spiritual standards for this new society, emphasizing love, humility, and righteousness. Jesus' teachings challenge societal norms and call for a radical reorientation towards God's will.

The Church as a Model Society

The early Christian church is portrayed as a model society, striving to live out the principles of the Kingdom of God. Acts 2:44-47 describes the communal life of the believers: "All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need. With one accord they continued to meet daily in the temple courts and to break bread from house to house, sharing their meals with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people."

The Present Age and Societal Challenges

The New Testament acknowledges the ongoing struggle between the church and the world. Romans 12:2 exhorts believers, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This highlights the tension between living according to God's standards and the prevailing cultural norms.

Eschatological Hope

The Bible concludes with a vision of a restored society in the new heavens and new earth, where righteousness dwells (Revelation 21:1-4). This eschatological hope serves as a reminder of God's ultimate plan to redeem and restore society to its intended state of holiness and peace.