Christian Duty To Government
Psalm 46:1-2 reads: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change.” Both Presidential candidates campaigned about change. Now that a new President has been selected we must be ready for the changes that are to come. While political pundits have warned about massive changes that scare the populace, we will eventually realize that we are talking about Washington D. C. and our congress. Change is not a word that operates in this environment. Yet we still hope for change in our government. Everyone hopes for positive change, but that means different things to different people.
But despite the rhetoric and complaints we may register, there is still the matter to consider of how we are to respond to the government. The apostle Paul wrote in Romans 13:1-2 reads: “Let every person be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore he who resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.” This passage says that whoever resists the laws of the land and the governing authorities are guilty of sin.
The apostle Peter said this in 1 Peter 2:17 “…honor the king”. This would seem strange that these two apostles told the Christians of the first century to honor their governments when their governments were corrupt and immoral, and seeking to destroy Christianity. The Emperor Nero was the King in that time, and his evil is well documented.
Paul told young Timothy to urge that everyone pray for all men and in 1 Timothy 2:2 Paul says “for kings and all who are in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quite life in all godliness and dignity” While there are many people who do not care to live a life of godliness, we still need to maintain dignity. We pray that those in authority will seek the guidance of God and petition Him by prayer asking for sound judgment and guidance.
Proverbs 14:34 reads: “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.” God and Jesus the Christ are to be exalted. Only those who practice righteousness will be exalted by God when this life is over. Honor our new President because of his office, but do not exalt him. Only the God of heaven is our refuge and strength. No man can live up to that standard.
We know that God is not willing that any perish (2 Peter 3:9). You must believe that Jesus is the Son of God and died on the cross for your sins. (Acts 8:37). You must repent of your sins (Luke 13:3), you must confess Jesus as Lord (Matthew 10:32) and you must be baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38; 22:16). Then you must remain faithful and continue learning how to serve God (2 Peter 3:18). Let us help you on your spiritual journey. May God bless you in your study of His word.
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By Carey Scott via the Madisonville Meteor; November 12, 2008

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