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I've been convinced for a number of years that there is a direct correlation between the strength/weakness of the church and the level of a society. The church is viewed by many as weak and non-authoritative, and too many churches water down the Gospel, creating a low standard ostensibly to increase membership and "save" more people.

Yet, God's standard is so very high (perfection), it condemns us! That's what the Law does: it's a schoolmaster, driving us to our knees on account of our sins, instructing us in righteousness, how God would have us live. The Law cannot save, it is most true. That state, when we have been stripped naked of our own righteousness, is where God must bring us, tilling the soil of our hearts as it were to receive the seed of the Gospel - a seed that blossoms into everlasting life. Then our hearts are changed and we will want to keep the Law - not to please men, not to save ourselves, but from a heart of gratitude. And that, my friend, is good for society.

Imagine a society wherein most dealt honestly ("Thou shalt not steal; thou shalt not lie"), strove for chastity ("Thou shalt not commit adultery"), honored those in authority ("Honor thy father and mother, that thy days may be long."), revered God's name, remembered His sabbath, and loved Him wholeheartedly. A blessed society?

God would bless us indeed! We look to the right "leader" as our salvation, but the answer may reside in us instead. I still cling to the promise 2 Chronicles 7:14:

If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

Glad to have this conversation, and boy I've strayed off-topic!