Our civil duty to higher authorities

“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." (NIV) Romans 13:1.

Bible reading: Romans 13:1-7

Beloved, we should not miss the mandatory call to duty anytime it rings in our ears especially when it involves God and His Word. Here, we are called to support and obey authorities that seek to uphold justice.

A believer can't be a good Christian and a bad citizen at the same time. As children of God, our responsibilities to any government is in three folds.

I. The authorities that exist are appointed by God. (Roman 13:1). This truth applies even to atheistic governments unless the law is not scriptural. In that sudden situation, the believer must obey God rather than Man (Acts 4:18-20). Also, we need to submit to the government as we would submit to God Himself. Some of us may have suffered great abuse by people in authority. Why would God want us to submit to authorities who do not act wisely or justly, we may ask? Our God is a God of order and I believe He would not want Christians to create disorder through disobedience. Sometimes, we must also stand up against injustice by pursuing the systems the country has laid down to address such issues.

II. We are to pay our tax to the government. (Matt. 17:24-27). The economy of the state becomes stable for the citizens to enjoy if they see the paying of tax as a mandatory duty and comply.

III. We are to pray for the leaders in government. In 1 Timothy 2:1-3, Paul exhorts us to pray for those who are in authority. We must always labor for them in prayers and supplications for them to govern the country in a balanced manner. We are also to pray that they hold their offices in godliness and honesty.

Let's conform to the rules, statutes and laws of authorities and heads of governmental bodies to show our love and respect for God and His Word.

A Perfect Man (Part II) || More