He listened intently to him. The New Testament gives us some broad principles on how we are supposed to respond to government. Consequently, government will increasingly regulate, hinder, and even oppose Christian activity. Submission to governmental authority was a vital topic in a day and time when the Lords church and civil government were on a collision course. Pauls words were vital in his own day, and they are just as important to contemporary Christians. What made kings listen when he spoke? This means that we must have armies and navies with firepower when just wars are necessary. It simply does not and cannot work. As Christians we believe that our citizenship is in heaven and along with our father Abraham, we are looking forward to a city whose architect and builder is the Lord. They have to deal with these kinds of things day to day. Or in World War II, we can think of the wonderful Dutch spinster, Corrie Ten Boom, who with her family in Amsterdam, bravely hid Jewish people from the Nazi soldiers to keep them from being deported to the concentration camps. Federal Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah and Economic Affairs Minister Sardar Ayaz wives to their husbands; slaves to their masters) is discussed elsewhere. from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, a Th.M. The great theologian Augustine said that government is a necessary evil, that it is necessary because of evil. Christian Duty in a Pagan Culture In America, decisions are not made by a majority of the people. In other words, no one can become a king, emperor, governor, president, assemblyman, or senator apart from Gods will. But Paul adds two very practical reasons for our submission and obedience in verses 2-7. In these recent days, that has often been associated with state and local regulations related to COVID-19 and ecclesiastical assemblies. The prisoners knew the rules and complied with them enough to avoid punishment. Such an attitude of submission enables us to retain the right attitude and actions toward government even when we must disobey specific laws in order to obey God. We must obey God rather than Caesar.But let me pull back and look at that question at a much larger level. Do you want to have no fear of authority? We already know what to do; let us humble our proud flesh, and do so! But in disobeying a wicked government policy (which was to kill the Jews), this family obeyed the Lord (i.e. (Hebrews 9:14). We want to maintain the unity of the spirit and the bond of peace, even as we face government pressure in certain situations.And in this context, we need to realize forbearance is very important when these kinds of judgments are being made. He would not have put him to death except for his drunkenness, his foolish offer, and his foolish pride (see Mark 6:14-29). The external motivation that promotes submission is the fear of punishmentat least primarily. What should a believer do when he feels that his own government is "ungodly"? But as soon as we are sure it is safe, we drive normallyand illegally. This requires conscientious subjectionsubmitting done out of obedience to God. There may be reason for disobedience to certain laws, but there is no excuse for our spirit of insubordination and for an obedience which is more compliant than it is cooperative and supportive. We rebelled against very idea of the "Divine RIght of Kings", in the particular person of King George III of England.We won the right to vote with the blood of patriots. This is one of the greatest lessons timely applicable in my country, Zambia as we are heading the general elections next year, 2021. But we can hope that situations of this nature will be few and far between. White Christians in particular, should be asking why it is that deadly force seems to be used more often against people of colour. WASHINGTON (AP) In a defeat for gay rights, the Supreme Courts conservative majority ruled on Friday that a Christian graphic artist who wants to design wedding websites can refuse to work with same-sex couples. Let me try to illustrate what I mean, using some of the texts which seem to be exceptions to submission. The function of government is to restrain evil and to maintain, uphold, and protect the sanctity of life and of property. Let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water (Hebrews 10:22). Dr Douglas F. Kelly is Richard Jordan Professor of Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA. A higher reason for subjection is found in verse 5. Living in subordination to divinely ordained government is beneficial to our walk with God and our service to others. Some Christians are fearful that our government is becoming more and more ungodly. With television channels and radio stations devoted entirely to the political landscape, it is hard to not be a little anxious about the condition of our country. Our basic foundational response is to, love the Lord your God with all [our] heart and with all [our] soul and with all [our] mind and with all [our] strength. (Mark 12:30 ESV; also Matthew 22:37 and Luke 10:27). When is it right for a Christian to disobey the government? Under normal conditions, it is the government which is in place (see verse 1b). WebRT @Satyamvatsin: Duties of extraction of revenue from the temples, right? WebRT @Satyamvatsin: Duties of extraction of revenue from the temples, right? The majority of those officials are Christians and Muslims. Bob is a pastor/teacher and elder at Community Bible Chapel in Richardson, Texas, and has contributed many of his Bible study series for use by the Foundation. Think of the British Puritans who populated these American colonies. While we think much about leaders, Jesus talked most about being followers, disciples. The following two tabs change content below. Hes an unaffiliated Christian, but his entire job is devoted to keeping religion out of the U.S. government. Submission to other authorities (e.g. Daniel was serving God by his subordination to civil government. It would have to have a positive effect. He sought to serve God with an undefiled conscience (Acts 23:1; 24:16; 2 Timothy 1:3), which he urged others to do as well (1 Timothy 1:19; 3:9). But when Paul speaks of submission to government in our text, he does so in the context of service. Submission usually, but not always, results in obedience. The Supreme Courts ruling for a Christian wedding-website designer protects dissenting artists from being compelled to deliver the governments messages. He is passionate about understanding the Bible and helping others do the same. We should be subject to human governments for this reason alone. Generally, submission is exhibited by ones obedience. Web2 Corinthians 5:20 Verse Concepts Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. In the course of events, a famous author (turned detective) secretly took the servants job to try to uncover the truth and expose the real murderer. The long and short of it, then, is that God is always in charge. Because when the church starts getting squeezed by pressure from the outside, one of the things that can happen is fragmentation. 2:1). Why? That would be to deny who Jesus Christ really is. Thus, co-operation with proper police power, and honest payment of taxes are ways that Christians show legitimate submission to the state under which we live. The Christian should be generally thankful for government. 71 Strange as it might seem, this authority structure included both inmates and prison staff, as well as guards. When is it right for a Christian to disobey the government? Simply this. Daniel maintained a clear conscience not only in what he refused to do but also in what he did. The Bible does in fact command Christians to submit to the governing authorities (Romans 13:1) and to pray for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence (I Timothy 2:2). Parents are the authority at home. 1 Peter 2:13-15 The Duty of the Christian to the Civil Government, Gathering Grapes: An Encouragement to Congregations to Study John Owen. LAHORE, Pakistan A government concession to demands by a Muslim extremist political party to allow blasphemy charges under Pakistans anti-terrorism laws has raised fears of more injustice for those accused under the harsh statutes, sources said. These provide additional motivation for our obedience to this divine command. The conscience of one may be stronger than that of another (see 1 Corinthians 8:7, 10, 12). Over twenty years ago, I taught high school classes in a medium security prison. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. Duties Of Christian Servants. In the remaining verses of this text, Paul gives us three reasons for our submission to human government. Christians should be the best citizens, for their calling is consistent with governments divine commission. The church is not to maintain a standing army, and the state is not to do evangelism or to administer the sacraments. Interested in joining the Ligonier team? But in judgments of prudence, youre going to have to use the light of nature, the general rules of the Word, common sense, and forbearance against other Christians who may make different judgments. You can go all the way back to the Old Testament. According to the Apostle Paul God commissions civil government to promote human flourishing and to restrain human wickedness. Over the years, Ive been asked by Christians on a number of occasions: when is it right for a Christian to disobey the government? Their answer was evidence of their submissive spirit and intent: Whether it is right in the sight of God to give heed to you rather than to God, you be the judge; for we cannot stop speaking what we have seen and heard (Acts 4:19-20). More often than not, if we are devious, we will not be caught. Paul says in Romans 13:4 that the state bears not the sword in vain. In other words, the state must deal with such as murderers by capital punishment (instituted in Genesis 9), and also with external enemies, who would invade and destroy our country and its freedom. In Rome, Caesar was god. Because of this, Romans considered Christians as atheists. The story is recorded in Acts 16:36-40: And the jailer reported these words to Paul, saying, The magistrates have sent to let you go. That is our duty as citizens and that is part of our responsibility to our fellow man. 75 Thus, a law which permits abortion is viewed little differently from a law which requires it. Wherefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience sake. Therefore, those politicians who are in power are there because God has allowed it. Nevertheless, resisting an evil government may bring severe consequences because, as verse four tells us, the government bears a sword and, as history has revealed, is often too quick to utilize it. Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. An internal attitude of submission stimulates us to obey government even when our disobedience cannot be seen or punished. For example, Romans 13 elaborates on the origin and institutio. Depicting governments and empires as beasts is fairly standard practice in Apocalyptic literature. (An Examination of Proverbs 31:6), Go Back Further: An Appeal Regarding a Recent Controversy over Womens Roles in the Church, Men (Not) at Work: Protecting Our Sons from a Dangerous Trend, Mixed, Misplaced, and Reappropriated Metaphors, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. WebThe Christian and the Government | Reformed Bible Studies & Devotionals at Ligonier.org | Reformed Bible Studies & Devotionals at Ligonier.org Dr. Sproul has noted that As Christians, we have a duty toward others. That may be a price that true believers have to pay from time to time, and why would we be any better than the rest to have to pay such a price? Our fellowship with Him will be hindered. We must subordinate our interests to the interests of others if we are to walk in love. In the earlier days of our nation, our government was founded on certain Christian assumptions and convictions. We are here today because of their resistance to unrighteous human laws. 79 One can safely imply that governments authority to judge the evil-doer extends to the degree of capital punishment. Do you want to have no fear of authority? It is terrifying, exceedingly strong and it devours all that it encounters. This is the main theme of Romans 12:113:7. The stone cut out by no human hand is Christ and his everlasting Kingdom. Are Christians Saved by the Skin of Their Teeth? Government should praise those who do good and punish those who do evil. 7 Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed. Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. Romans 13:1, Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work. Previous post: What Does The Bible Say About Jesus Coming Back? ; Rom. He causes all things to work together for good (8:28). The school has the board, principal and faculty. Nevertheless, Christians are responsible to uphold biblical righteousness in a hostile culture while also expressing respect for its leadership. Ligon Duncan (MDiv, Covenant Theological Seminary; PhD, University of Edinburgh) is the Chancellor & CEO of Reformed Theological Seminary, the John E. Richards Professor of Systematic and Historical Theology, and the President of RTS Jackson. Taxes should be paid. Our service to others will be adversely affected. 10 Duties of Citizens according to the Bible - All About Bible Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. The majority of those officials are Christians and Muslims. If Christians never resist the powers, but always submit to them, they will be at the mercy of the government. We could turn things around, we were assured, if only we could mobilize the masses. The Christian Home And Family Elsewhere in Romans the term is used in 3:8; 5:16; and 11:33. To whom much is given, much is required. For blessings of that magnitude we look to the cross and to the coming of the Christ. We may not trust the governing authorities, but we have to trust Him. WebChristians today not only may speak out, but should speak out, when government permits and even promotes immoral conduct such as abortion, homosexuality, pornography, divorce, and gambling. He is in control of all things. When Paul uses this same term in Romans 2:2, 3, he adds the expression, of God in both instances. Early in my teaching days there, I had a very idealistic and unrealistic picture of what was happening in that prison. It is not a choice, but it is required. WebWhat Is a Christian's Responsibility to Government? We must never defile our conscience by doing what it considers evil, nor should we offend others by practicing what their consciences condemn as evil (1 Corinthians 8). WebMost Relevant Verses Romans 13:1-7 Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. Hindu temples belong to 100 crore plus Hindus across the globe, and the government should stop intervening in its affairs. Webdiscussion of the Christian and the government with discussions of love (Rom. There was compliance, but little cooperation. A Supreme Court Victory for Creators of All Kinds While His disciples had their heads filled with thoughts of position, power, and prestige, Jesus constantly talked to them about subordination and service. Both honor and money are necessary for public officials to carry out their tasks.80 Our subordination to those in authority not only means that we should do what we are required, but that we should provide all that is necessary so that our superiors can do their jobs. Why should my face not be sad when the city, the place of my fathers tombs, lies desolate and its gates have been consumed by fire?, However, so that we do not offend them, go to the sea and throw in a hook, and take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, you will find a shekel. 13:8ff.). Paul does not tell us here to obey the laws of the land, but rather to honor those in authority and to pay taxes and custom fees. The Christian should never need a radar detector, nor should he ever fear paying the penalty for speeding. Submit to their husbands. Hindu temples belong to 100 crore plus Hindus across the globe, and the government should stop intervening in its affairs." Prince Christian is turning down his royal allowancefor the time being. For God's sake we are called to be model citizens. It is interesting that in 1 Timothy 5:17 the word honor itself has this two-fold sense of honor and remuneration. If our early government founders and officials were not Christians, at least their beliefs and values were compatible with Christian doctrines and practices. Here is the point: only Gods law is absolute; we must always follow what he says in his Word. And if government should fail in this task, God will make things right in that day when He judges with perfect judgment. (Part 2). Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, for he is Gods servant for your good. Should a situation arise in which these two authorities come into clear conflict with one another, Christians have to obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29). Whether democratic or autocratic, heathen or God-fearing, every government which has the power to rule over its people has been granted that power and authority by God. Praise our government: We are to give honor to whom If such things happen, then we will be back in the position of our Puritan forefathers, whom the British state severely persecuted for not following state policy (as, for example, how they worshipped). Its arrival results in the complete destruction of every other human kingdom on the earth. Therefore submission to the authority of legitimate governmental agents is required by God, at all times and in all cases. 6 It opened its mouth to utter blasphemies against God, blaspheming his name and his dwelling, that is, those who dwell in heaven. Government is given an unexpected title in verse 4minister of God. Its task is to serve God by dealing appropriately with those who do good and also those who do evil. In our country, we have the ability to make our opinions known by exercising our right to vote. But they do not ultimately put their hope in such things. She talked David out of doing a foolish thing that would have negatively impacted his reign, yet with a submissive spirit. WebCHRISTIAN OBLIGATIONS AND DUTIES Titus 3:1-2 INTRODUCTION: Every citizen of any country has certain obligations that they are required to fulfill. What is our responsibility to God? Paul then speaks of our sacrificial service in terms of the church, the body of Christ, and of the exercise of our spiritual gifts (12:3-8). Christians and their values are becoming an unpopular minority view. We can be rude and disrespectful to officials and get away with it. Christians only needed to mobilize the moral majority and encourage them to speak outespecially by voting. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. Romans Subordination is the key to loving God and others. In Acts chapter 5 the Sanhedrin has demanded that the apostles (Peter and John) stop preaching in the name of Jesus. These verses tell us that the purpose of government is to be Gods representative in preventing bad conduct or wrong-doing. When this occurs, it is entirely appropriate for Christians to call government leaders to account. He disobeyed his government when his faith and his conscience required it. The Bible seems to suggest that we ought to think of human government in the following four ways. Duties of a Christian Wife Handbook: Part 1 Historically that meant that the church was answerable to God and the state was answerable to God. A Christians Relationship With a Godless Government Christianity was eventually seen as treasonous. All three of those references are roughly parallel ways of recalling the extremely difficult time of persecution experienced by the Old Testament covenant community under Antiochus IV Epiphanes in the second century BC. Robert is happily married and lives in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Within a democratic system, God has allowed that the people have the right to vote. This they cannot do, lest they disobey God. Even today, men like Billy Graham are sought out by presidents and powerful political figures. Government is to seek, serve, and promote the common good of the people, not the good of the rulers (Romans 13:4). May God grant that we will present ourselves to Him as living sacrifices, as we subordinate ourselves to others and to the government He has ordained. Dr. Elmer Towns is a college and seminary professor, an author of popular and scholarly works (the editor of two encyclopedias), a popular seminar lecturer, and dedicated worker in Sunday school, and has developed over 20 resource packets for leadership education.His personal education includes a B.S. But when one cannot obey, they can still demonstrate a submissive spirit. Every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. (Matthew 3:10 ESV). I personally believe in a separation of spheres of authority between the church and state. from Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California.He is co-founder of Liberty University, with Jerry Falwell, in 1971, and was the only full-time teacher in the first year of Libertys existence. The second stage of Christs coming is described in Revelation 19: Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! Christian, The first thing that is apparent from these verses is that the Christian should not have a rebellious, antagonistic attitude toward our leaders. 10 Duties of Citizens according to the Bible. We must subordinate our lives to God, presenting our bodies as living sacrifices to Him. (Romans 13:17 ESV). The Christian should abstain from evil and pursue what is good. The point is clear. Titus 3:1, Be subject for the Lords sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. Verses 3-4: For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. (Philippians 2:5-8). The showing of gentility and charity when one is being wrongly persecuted is one of the main ways over the hundreds of years that has won many a lost person to the Lord. He worked hard and was at the top of his class in his studies. As a believer, you to do your part and vote for the individuals you believe God would have to serve this nation. That seems to be the main idea here. For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing. But they cannot make judgments of prudence for every other Christian or church or denomination. Governments legitimately claim a monopoly upon violence within their borders so as to restrain evil and to protect and promote those who are doing good. This time, we will talk about the duties of a Christian wife. The context seems to require us to take judgment here as divine judgment. It is an internal standard, defining right and wrong. Disregard for governments authority also has present ramifications. Mothers Day: The Pastors Kobayashi Maru, Generations by Jean M. TwengeReview and Reflections. If God is for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:31 ESV), Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version (ESV), Tagged as: Patrick van Katwijk // Getty Images. How do we know that a given government is ordained of God and that He has given it authority? That is one of the powerful ways they have shown the peace, order, and love of the God who saved them. In Romans 13 the Apostle Paul says that human government has been instituted by God and invested with legitimate authority. In verse 1, Paul has stated that human government has divine authority. Politics, Robert Driskell received a Bachelor of Arts degree in both Pastoral Ministries and Biblical Studies from Mid-America Christian University in 1995. Of course, there may be times when government leaders violate the power and authority given them by God and issue laws or acts contrary to Scripture.