As we approach the federal election, have you thought much about how a Christian should live in relation to those in charge of our society? What should be our interest in policies, politics, the people governing our country? Does the Bible inform us on these questions?
The New Testament teaches that Christians should submit themselves to the governing authorities. Why? The authorities exist because they’ve been established by God. This means that if we rebel against the governing authority, we are rebelling against what God has instituted (Romans 13:1-2). Further, Christians are told that we should submit ourselves – for God’s sake – to every authority instituted among people. We should show proper respect to everyone, including those in charge of our country (1 Peter 3:13-17).
It would seem that the only exception to this requirement is if the governing authorities forbid what God requires or require what God forbids. That’s why the early Christians continued to speak about what they have seen and heard, and spread the news about Jesus, despite being ordered not to and imprisoned for doing so (Acts 4:18-31; 5:17-29).
So, are we to just passively submit to those in authority? Or are we to take action in some way? The Bible teaches that we are to pray for all those in authority over us, with requests, intercession and thanksgiving (1 Timothy 2:1-4). We are also, perhaps, to watch over governments and ensure that they fulfil the role which God has given to them – to punish those who do wrong and commend those who do right (1 Peter 2:13-14).
That’s what’s on my mind.
What do you think?
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