Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: The concept of obeying man, within the context of the Bible, involves understanding the balance between human authority and divine authority. Scripture provides guidance on when and how believers are to submit to human authorities, while also emphasizing the supremacy of God's commandments. Biblical Foundation: The Bible acknowledges the role of human authority and the importance of obedience to it, as long as it does not conflict with God's laws. 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." Obedience to Government: Scripture instructs believers to respect and obey governmental authorities. This is seen as part of God's order for maintaining peace and justice in society. 1 Peter 2:13-14 advises, "Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to the king as the supreme authority, or to governors as those sent by him to punish evildoers and praise well-doers." Obedience in the Workplace: The Bible also addresses obedience in the context of work. Colossians 3:22 instructs, "Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything, not only to please them while they are watching, but with sincerity of heart and fear of the Lord." While the term "slaves" reflects the historical context, the principle extends to modern employee-employer relationships, emphasizing integrity and respect. Obedience in the Family: Family structures are another area where obedience is highlighted. Ephesians 6:1-3 states, "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 'Honor your father and mother' (which is the first commandment with a promise), 'that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life on the earth.'" This passage underscores the importance of familial respect and the blessings associated with it. Limits of Obedience: While the Bible encourages obedience to human authorities, it also sets clear boundaries. Acts 5:29 records the apostles' response to being forbidden to preach in Jesus' name: "But Peter and the other apostles replied, 'We must obey God rather than men.'" This highlights the principle that God's commands take precedence over human directives when the two are in conflict. Examples of Obedience and Disobedience: The Bible provides numerous examples of both obedience and disobedience to human authority. Daniel's refusal to cease praying to God, despite the king's edict (Daniel 6), and the Hebrew midwives' defiance of Pharaoh's order to kill Hebrew male infants (Exodus 1:15-21) are instances where obedience to God was prioritized over human commands. Conclusion: The biblical teaching on obeying man is nuanced, recognizing the legitimacy of human authority while affirming the ultimate authority of God. Believers are called to navigate this balance with wisdom, ensuring that their obedience to human institutions aligns with their higher allegiance to God's will. Topical Bible Verses Acts 5:29Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. Topicalbible.org Library The Blessedness of Obeying God's Word. Next Let not Man, Now that He Knoweth that by the Grace of God... The Nature of Man. The Common Conception among the Dregs of Darwinian Culture is that ... Whether one Man is Bound to Obey Another? Argument for the Resurrection from the Purpose Contemplated in ... Some Man May Say: "If There be not in the Dead any Care For... Man's Inability to Keep the Moral Law Forasmuch as Each Man is a Part of the Human Race... But when that Man of Thine, Simplicianus, Related to Me this of ... Resources What does it mean to honor my father and mother? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Christian Rationalism? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of Mount Gerizim in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Obeying: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |