Article fromhttp://www.mariettarenochurchofchrist.org/?page_id=337
Introduction
Having just elected new leaders in this country, it is proper for each of us to be reminded of our responsibility, as Christians, to our nation’s leaders. These responsibilities, as outlined in God’s word, are not contingent upon our approval of the leaders, but upon being citizens of a nation. These responsibilities are not to be neglected, as we will be judged according to whether or not we have obeyed the whole counsel of God.
Recognize Their Authority
Whenever we debate within ourselves whether or not to recognize those who have been elected as our nation’s leaders, consider that God has designed and established government. This fact can easily be seen in John 19:10-11: “Then Pilate said to Him, ’Are You not speaking to me? Do You not know that I have power to crucify You, and power to release You?’ Jesus answered, ’You could have no power at all against Me unless it had been given you from above. Therefore the one who delivered Me to you has the greater sin.’” God has not specified which type of government a nation must have, nor does He approve of all the worldly leaders. He has, however, established government as an important aspect in the world He created.
Submit To Their Authority
God’s people are not to be a rebellious, problem causing bunch. Christians, according to the inspired apostle Paul, and “every soul” are to “be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God” (Rom. 13:1). God desires for His followers to be individuals who are “model citizens” in our earthly nation. Christians are expected, and commanded, to be submissive to the leaders’ decisions and the scope of their authority. Notice Peter’s instruction on this point, “Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake, whether to the king as supreme, or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men—as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God. Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king” (1 Pet. 2:13-17).
Are there limitations to this submission? Yes. Notice Peter’s instruction again in v.17, “Fear God. Honor the king.” Christians are first and foremost to “fear God and keep His commandments” (Eccl. 12:13). There may be times when the path of fearing God and the path of submitting to the “king’s” authority are not the same. In which case we must conclude, “we ought to obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29).
Some practical applications of this submission. Submission is not achieved by simply refusing to join in a protest against a decision made by the “king.” Submission is achieved when we effectively submit our own desires to the laws of the land (when they are in agreement with God’s will). Oftentimes we might view such things as: illegally downloading/coping music (or other items containing copyrights), fastening seat belts, speeding, etc., as unimportant (so long as we don’t get caught). However, failing to obey the laws of the land in these areas (and all others) is sin in God’s sight.
Pray For The Rulers
While prayer may often be considered something that is done on behalf of ourselves, family, friends, neighbors, the sick, and all who are “near and dear” to us, we also have a responsibility to pray for the rulers in the world. Paul told Timothy, “Therefore, I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence” (1 Tim. 2:1-2). Yes, we are to pray for all those working in positions of authority in Washington, D.C., and the world-over!
What might we pray for? Let’s make an effort to pray that those in positions of authority may be seeking the good of the nation. But, not just according to any standard of “goodness;” rather, only according to God’s perfect standard. Let’s pray that they might enact laws that enable us to lead “a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence” (v.2) Let’s be thankful (v.1) that God has put government in its place, according to the purpose found in Romans 13:1-7, and that we might have folks who work in such areas. Yet, let’s not stop there! Let’s also pray for their physical and spiritual well-being. Let’s pray that they too can become members of Christ’s church!
Conclusion
The Christian is not free from responsibility to his/her government. God has intended and created government in this world. Therefore, to resist such, is to resist the will of God! Still we must remember, “we ought to obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29).
- Eric Krieg -
Scripture taken from the New King James Version. © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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