SUBMIT TO AUTHORITY

 

Romans 13:1-2  Everyone must submit himself 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, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. (NIV)

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You can read the verses around this Bible passage from the Internet Bible: - in English, and many other languages

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Some Christians separate their loyalty to God from their obligation to their government, society or workplace. It was particularly tempting for the believers in Rome, where state-sponsored idolatry denied Jesus Christ His rightful place. But Paul said that all authority ultimately comes from God; so, no government could be in power without God's permission.

This may have been difficult for the original readers, some of whom were being persecuted. Paul himself had been harassed and unjustly treated. However, Paul only operated within the law even though the system may have been corrupt. Even during his arrest and trials Paul did not escape but completely trusted Father God: just as Jesus did.

What is our attitude to people and practices that are more powerful than us? It depends who we believe has the last word. Paul was convinced that everybody is ultimately accountable to God. So he willingly submitted to those who ruled over him, only challenging them within their own legal framework. He trusted God to work, either with or against the authorities, so that His plan would be fulfilled. That was all that mattered to Paul - even when everybody deserted him and it looked as though his second trial would bring his execution (2 Timothy 4:16-18).

Jesus made the same choices. 1 Peter 2:23 says, about Jesus, "When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly." When you trust that God will have the last word - you can live confidently, legally and obediently in the society He has placed you.

Prayer:  Almighty God my Heavenly Father. I am so glad that You are the first and final authority, and that You always have the last word. Forgive me for the times I have tried to work against those in authority over me. Help me to see that I am safe in Christ and that, while I can legally challenge what is wrong, I must not manipulate the situation to my own advantage. Help me to trust You today, believing that You will bring the right solutions. In Jesus' Name. Amen.