Government Authority

Government Authority
11-2-04

The message "A Responsible Christian Vote" caused quite a response - not all of it good. Some of this is to be expected anytime I write about a controversial issue, but I can see where some were justifiably offended. The main point of the message was to bring Christ into the decision making process and vote how we believe Christ would vote. Far too often Christ is left on the shelf and He deserves to be made the central focus of every area of our life. But I should not have implied that the decision is as simple as asking two questions. I believe that Jesus would absolutely take a stand on abortion and homosexual marriage issues, but He would also have much to say about many other issues which should be prayerfully considered.

The good news is that God already knows the outcome of every election and He is still in control! No matter who is elected, they will be there because they have been appointed by God.

Romans 13:1
"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."

It's natural for us to think this only applies to those who we believe are Godly leaders - but God's Word makes no such distinction. All government (good or bad, righteous or wicked) is put in place as part of God's plan - and we are called to submit. Peter taught this same principle; "Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men" (1 Peter 2:13). Our submission to authority is actually a submission to Christ.

There is only one biblical "excuse" for not submitting to government authority. If government commands us to do something which God forbids, or forbids us from doing something God commands, we must obey God. Peter and John faced this same dilemma when told to stop preaching; "Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to obey you rather than God" (Acts 4:19).

Christians should be involved in the process of government, but we must do so within the governing laws of our country and from a position of respect and submission. No matter who is elected, we ought to keep our faith only in God and continue to pursue the issues which reflect His heart - but always remember: "The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world" (2 Corinthians 10:4). We must fight first with prayer and trust in Him for every result!

We may not agree with our government or understand how our leaders fit into God's plan, but let's take comfort that God has been, and always will be, in control. He is still on the throne and He has commanded us to submit to all government authority.

Have A Great Day!