Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.  Romans 13:1-5

This week, we see a passage from the thirteenth chapter of Romans that has been getting a significant amount of attention over the past few years. It is a collection of verses that has a substantial meaning in the current political division that exists in the current culture. It is also one that gets interpreted somewhat loosely when used to enforce certain beliefs on how Christians should, or should not, act when faced with opposition to the authority we see in our modern government structure.

The first verse in this chapter could certainly get a rise out of those who oppose civil authority, and although Christ-followers believe that God is the ultimate truth and authority, it still conveys that we are subject to our local laws. It goes on to state that if we rebel against that authority, we are rebelling against what God has established. This was an important statement in the first century and continues to be in our current time period.

The difficulty is in a situation where authority goes directly against biblical truth. In those cases, it is important to be sure in your biblical knowledge and pray diligently when faced with a law that opposes your biblical morality. We should always rely on help from the Holy Spirit to navigate these issues and not immediately act on our own authority. In all things, act in a manner that honors God and what he has commanded in his word.

Have a great week!  ~Danny