How should we submit to governing authorities? Definition and Context of Submission to Governing Authorities Submission to governing authorities refers to an attitude and practice of respecting, honoring, and obeying the laws and leaders established in a society, insofar as such submission does not conflict with higher principles found in Scripture. This concept is addressed throughout the Bible in both Old and New Testaments. In the New Testament, key passages such as Romans 13:1–7 and 1 Peter 2:13–17 form the foundation for a Christian’s relationship to civil government. Submission does not equate to blind allegiance; rather, it is a posture of respect for God’s institution of civil order, balanced with unwavering obedience to God’s preeminent command. Biblical Foundation Romans 13:1–2 states, “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” This underscores the principle that governments and leaders function within divine sovereignty. 1 Peter 2:13–14 further exhorts, “Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to the king as the supreme authority, or to governors...” The apostle Peter frames submission as part of a Christian testimony, so that believers demonstrate goodness in society and silence unfounded criticism against them. Titus 3:1 likewise teaches, “Remind the believers to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work.” From these passages, we derive that proper submission upholds civic order, fosters peace, and ultimately glorifies God by reflecting a consistent, respectful lifestyle in the public square. Examples from Scripture 1. Jesus and Paying Taxes Matthew 22:17–21 presents the scene where Jesus is asked about paying taxes to Caesar. He responds, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” This illustrates a balanced approach: honoring civil obligations (such as taxes) but never neglecting or compromising one’s obligation to God. 2. Daniel and His Companions In the Book of Daniel, chapters 3 and 6, Daniel and his companions show exemplary balance between respecting royal decrees and refusing to commit idolatry. When commanded to worship a golden image (Daniel 3) or to cease praying to God (Daniel 6), they remained obedient to God’s commands. These accounts demonstrate that believers should respectfully resist government directives only when such directives conflict with core scriptural mandates. 3. Peter and John before the Sanhedrin Acts 5:29 records the apostles’ response when forbidden to preach about Christ: “We must obey God rather than men.” This reveals the boundary: believers must not break God’s explicit instruction, even when commanded otherwise by authorities. Still, the apostles showed respect in their manner, addressing leaders consistently with dignity. Purpose and Role of Government From a biblical viewpoint, human governments are established by God to promote order, punish wrongdoing, and commend those who do good (Romans 13:3–4). This design serves humanity’s well-being and restrains evil. Although governments can become corrupt, the ideal remains that they operate under divine allowance to maintain societal stability. Throughout history, documents and archaeological findings attest to the reality of empires and rulers mentioned in Scripture. For instance, the “Pilate Stone,” discovered in Caesarea (c. 1961), corroborated the existence of Pontius Pilate as a Roman prefect, confirming the Bible’s reliability in political and historical details. Such discoveries illustrate that Scripture speaks into real governmental structures, further grounding these teachings in a concrete historical context. Obedience vs. Civil Disobedience 1. Obedience for the Lord’s Sake Christians are encouraged to obey the law in all matters that do not violate biblical principles. Examples include paying taxes, following regulations for public safety, and contributing positively to community welfare. 2. Civil Disobedience When Mandated by Scripture If an official command directly compels violation of God’s revealed word, believers must obey God first. Acts 5:29 encapsulates this principle clearly. Such disobedience, however, should be carried out with respect and humility. Daniel calmly continued to pray even when it was forbidden, yet he did not respond violently or disrespectfully to the king. 3. Maintaining a Christlike Testimony In situations where the laws or policies of the ruling authorities clash with God’s commands, the believer’s stance should still reflect compassion, prayerfulness, and readiness to face consequences. This posture has historically led to many stories of courage under persecution, as documented in early church records and beyond. Practical Considerations and Motivations 1. Conscience and Integrity Romans 13:5 teaches, “It is necessary to submit to authority, not only to avoid punishment but also as a matter of conscience.” Believers should not merely act to avoid legal penalties but also to maintain a clear conscience before God. 2. Prayer for Rulers 1 Timothy 2:1–2 commands prayer “for kings and all those in authority, so that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity.” Even under imperfect governments, interceding for leaders fosters peace and can open opportunities for the gospel. 3. Respectful Engagement and Advocacy Engaging with policies and leaders respectfully can help address societal issues. Christians historically have shaped public ethics, from advocating the abolition of slavery to establishing charitable institutions. Critique and protest, when necessary, can be conducted within the bounds of respect and peaceful means. Historical and Cultural Observations In the Roman Empire of the first century, where many biblical texts were written, emperors often held oppressive power. Yet Christians were guided to show honor to governing officials (1 Peter 2:17: “Show proper respect to everyone, love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.”). This was not an endorsement of every imperial policy but an acknowledgment of God’s overarching sovereignty. Archaeological and historical records (such as inscriptions identifying key political figures in the Book of Acts or records of Roman administrators in Judea) confirm biblical personnel and timelines. These tie the biblical instructions on civil obedience to genuinely existing governmental authorities, highlighting both the reliability of Scripture and the real-world context in which believers were to submit. Balancing Submission and Ultimate Allegiance • God’s Sovereignty: Submission to civil authority does not negate God’s supreme sovereignty. Governmental obedience is offered as service to God, recognizing that He instituted order. • Peaceful Coexistence: While the world may resist biblical values, believers strive for peace where possible (Romans 12:18). • Faithfulness under Pressure: When commands directly contradict Scripture, loyalty to God takes precedence, yet it is met by respectful confrontation rather than violent rebellion. Conclusion Biblical submission to governing authorities is a measured, respectful posture grounded in God’s overarching rule. Throughout Scripture, readers see both the call to obey civil ordinances and the clear boundary when obedience to God must prevail above all else. Christians follow laws, respect leaders, and pray for those in power as a testimony of faith and as a contribution to societal order. At the same time, if commanded to forsake or contradict the truths revealed in Scripture, believers must stand firm, exemplifying the balance between honoring lawful authority and uncompromising commitment to God. Through prayer, respect, and readiness to serve, believers support stability and peace, trusting that God’s sovereignty ultimately prevails over all earthly powers. |
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