Decentralization

The early church was able to grow and have influence because it was decentralized. When the Christians were persecuted in Jerusalem, they moved on to Judea and Samaria (Acts 8:1-6). Even Rome, the center of apostate political power, was populated with Christians. Spain was next in Paul's missionary plans (Romans 15:28). The decentralized church was the growing and elusive church. No political power on earth could curtail its efforts. Christians, because ultimately they serve God, take their religion with them wherever they go. Families no longer look to the state for care. Education is seen as a parental responsibility. Statist education is opposed. Alternative educational establishments are constructed. Care for the needy is seen as a Christian responsibility and not the obligation or right of the state. There was little need for "fair" business laws because Christian employers treated their employees with dignity, as individuals created in the image of God. These early Christians were persecuted for their "individualistic" beliefs, but with the Roman Empire crumbling around them, in time, Christians found themselves in positions of power and authority.

Gary DeMar - God and Government Vol II, page 70