Jesus Christ and his way of salvation is the only reality that sustains joy when our livelihood is taken away, and our family is taken away, and our life is taken away. The state, by God’s design, has the power (according to Romans 13:1 Chapter 13 1 Let every soul be in subjection to the higher powers: for there is no power but of God; and the `powers' that be are ordained of God. –6 and 1 Peter 2:13 13 Be subject to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether to the king, as supreme; –17) to take our livelihood and our family and our lives, if laws are put in place that define us as criminals. As Paul says in Romans 13:4 4 for he is a minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is a minister of God, an avenger for wrath to him that doeth evil. “Rulers do not bear the sword in vain” ( Romans 13:4 4 for he is a minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is a minister of God, an avenger for wrath to him that doeth evil. ). Swords are for killing and for confiscating. Therefore, the state cannot take our joy. It can only take our lives. The full resource can be found at http://www.desiringgod.org/messages/sons-of-liberty-and-joy John Piper // NOVEMBER 2, 2016 // Bethlehem College & Seminary | Minneapolis