since the remainder of the document is to be a separation, yet cross-self-reliance on these parts. Calvin made no attempt to separate local, regional, or national magistracy. In fact, most of the scripture references are Old Testament passages which refer to either the kings of Judah, or other post-king patriarchs. The main focus on the magistrate "is that they have a mandate from God, have been invested with divine authority, and are wholly God's representatives." In addition, God has "entrusted to them" the authority "of exercising judgement not for man but for God." This sounds very theocratic. However, no where did Calvin mention the source of this divine position to be the church. Rather he asserted, quoting Psalms 2:12, that the magistrate should "kiss the Son of God" yet not lay aside their authority. With this he follows, "By these words he entrusts the condition of the church to their protection and care." Calvin clearly separates the church from directly engaging in the politics related to the office of the magistrate. By assigning to the church the responsibility of caring for the magistrate, Calvin allows the church to be associated with government while not actually becoming part of the government, as his Catholic adversaries did. Beyond divine appointment, however, Calvin also outlines the duties of the magistrate in a way which uniquely joins the government to God.
             Calvin continued his blend of civil and spiritual government through a discourse on the duties of the magistrate, issues of war, and the levying of taxes. On the duties of the magistrate, for example, he returns to the question of divine appointment. "And that their sole endeavor" Calvin asserts "should be to provide for the common safety and peace of all." Continuing, he states that, "in administering punishment, [the magistrate] does nothing by himself, but carries out the very judgements of God ." In this, Calvin begins to solidify h...