I generally think the sphere sovereignty framework is helpful. But where it falls short is with the state.

Sphere sovereignty says there's 3 (0r 4) spheres God instituted.

1. Family

2. Church

3. State

4. Self

My issue with this is that if you trace the origin of all 4 spheres, you see that all but "the state" are descriptively decreed by God for our good and the fulfillment of the dominion mandate.

The state is not...

The state is a judgment on man for repeatedly forsaking God and rejecting Him as King. It's origins are found in the demonic and Scripture speaks of the state in terms of being a "beast."

God also says He uses the state and it's evil rulers to serve Him and His purposes, but this is not an endorsement of the state as an institution being good and Godly.

My concern is that including the state in sphere sovereignty legitimizes it like it does the family, church, self.

What say you?