1Let 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.
2Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.
3For 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.
4For 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.
- P34
5Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscie
- P35
Everyone is to submit to governing authorities, for all authority is establishedby God. Paul warns that rebelling against authority means rebelling againstGod - P35
Authorities are God‘s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment onthe wrongdoer. Believers are to do what is right, pay taxes, and give everyonewhat is owed-revenue, respect, and honor. - P35
This passage reminds us that God is sovereign over all authority including authorities in government. In general, we are not to rebel against authorities. Civic leaders should not pose any threat to those who do what is right but are given the power to punish those who do wrong. - P36
We might resist this idea when we think about some of the ungodly leaders in the world. However, we see many examples throughout Scripture, including Jesus Himself, who submitted to authorities even when they did not know God or His ways. - P36
Because our ultimate loyalty is to God who works all things for our good, we are able to submit to the rulers of the earth knowing that God is sovereign and can fulfill His purposes through anyone. - P36
Paul explains that submitting to authorities also involves paying our taxes.
Government leaders are full-time workers who serve the community, andeveryone should pay their taxes to contribute to the financial needs of society. This can seem difficult when we do not agree with our governmentleaders. We may not want to pay our taxes to those we do not like, or showrespect to those we deem unrespectable, or give honor to those we deemdishonorable. - P36
However, as we show respect and honor to those in authorityand pay the taxes that we owe, we demonstrate our trust in the ultimateauthority, God, who calls us to fulfill our duties and responsibilities, respectour leaders, and give what is owed. - P36
Father, thank you that You are the ultimate authority. Use the authorities in my government to fulfill Your plans and purposes, and may I be a faithful and respectful member of society, bringing glory to You. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen. - P36
|