Evil Empire?

Government Officials as Proponents of the Gospel in Luke-Acts and Beyond

By: Christopher S. Chen

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eText | 21 January 2026

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In a world where believers face increasing opposition, how do we pray for—and relate to—human rulers? This timely and engaging book takes us back to the pages of Luke-Acts to explore what Scripture says about government authorities and their role in the gospel story.

Through careful biblical and historical analysis, it uncovers one possible reason why Luke emphasized centurions and other officials in his two-volume work to Theophilus. Tracing this theme from the Old Testament through Luke-Acts and into church history, it reveals a surprising pattern: civil servants have often supported God's mission—even within regimes that are hostile to the faith.

From ancient Rome to modern nations, the story of government officials as the "most excellent" proponents of the gospel spans centuries and continents. With profound implications for today's global church, this book challenges and encourages believers navigating complex political realities while laboring to advance God's kingdom to the ends of the earth.