The Christian's Relationship to Government
The question of how a Christian should relate to the governing authorities of their land is one that has been pondered throughout church history. The Holy Scriptures, particularly the New Testament, provide clear and unambiguous guidance on this vital subject. Far from advocating for anarchy or rebellion, the Bible calls believers to a posture of respect, submission, and prayer, while also upholding the supreme authority of God above all earthly powers. Understanding this divine framework is crucial for every disciple of Christ living in a fallen world.
God's Ordained Authority
The foundational truth regarding government is that all authority, whether good or evil in its execution, originates from God. The Apostle Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, makes this profoundly clear in his epistle to the Romans. He states that there is no power except that which is ordained of God, and those powers that exist are appointed by Him. This divine appointment means that when we submit to earthly rulers, we are, in essence, submitting to the divine order established by God Himself.
Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
This does not imply that God condones every action of every ruler, nor that He directly causes every evil deed. Rather, it means that He permits and uses earthly governments, even those that seem contrary to His will, to achieve His ultimate purposes. From the mightiest empires to the smallest local councils, God is sovereign over them all. This understanding should temper our reactions to political events, reminding us that God remains on the throne, working all things after the counsel of His own will.
The Duty of Submission
Flowing directly from the understanding of God's ordained authority is the Christian's duty to submit to governing powers. Paul continues in Romans 13 by explaining the consequences of resisting this divinely instituted order.
Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
The Apostle Peter echoes this command, urging believers to submit to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake, whether to the king as supreme, or unto governors. This submission is not born out of fear of punishment alone, but out of a desire to honour God and live a life that adorns the gospel.
Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.
This submission includes obeying laws, respecting those in authority, and conducting ourselves as good citizens. It is a powerful testimony to the world when believers demonstrate a spirit of peace and order, rather than rebellion and chaos. Our submission should be willing and for conscience sake, as mentioned in Romans 13:5.
The Purpose of Government
What is the God-given purpose of government? Romans 13 clarifies this as well. Rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. They are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing: to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil, and to be a praise to those who do well. In essence, civil government is a divine instrument for maintaining order, administering justice, and suppressing wickedness in society.
For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.
This understanding helps us appreciate the role of law enforcement, judicial systems, and legislative bodies. While these institutions are imperfect due to human sin, their fundamental design by God is for the common good. Christians should therefore uphold and respect these institutions, recognizing their God-ordained function.
Paying Taxes and Prayer for Rulers
Two specific duties are explicitly commanded for Christians regarding government: paying taxes and praying for those in authority. Jesus Himself affirmed the former when He said, "Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's."
And he saith unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.
Paul reinforces this in Romans 13:6-7, instructing us to pay tribute and custom to whom they are due. This is a practical demonstration of our submission and recognition of government's role in providing public services.
Equally important is the command to pray for rulers. The Apostle Paul exhorts Timothy to make supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks for all men, especially for kings and for all that are in authority. The purpose of such prayer is so that "we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty."
I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
Praying for our leaders, regardless of their political affiliation or moral character, is a direct command from God. It is an act of faith, trusting that God can influence hearts and bring about circumstances conducive to the spread of the gospel and the well-being of His people.
When God's Law Supersedes Man's
While the general command is submission, there is a clear biblical precedent for when a Christian must disobey earthly authority: when that authority commands something contrary to God's revealed will. The classic example is found in the book of Acts, where Peter and the other apostles were commanded by the Sanhedrin not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus.
Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
This principle is crucial. Our ultimate allegiance is to Christ. If a government forbids the preaching of the gospel, commands idolatry, forces believers to deny their faith, or demands actions that are clearly sinful, then Christians must choose to obey God. However, this disobedience should be carried out respectfully and with a willingness to accept the consequences, rather than with a rebellious or violent spirit. Examples like Daniel's refusal to stop praying (Daniel 6:10) or Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego's refusal to worship the golden image (Daniel 3:18) illustrate this principled stand.
Our Heavenly Citizenship and Earthly Influence
It is vital for Christians to remember that our primary citizenship is not of this world. As Paul states, "For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ."
For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:
This heavenly perspective shapes our engagement with earthly governments. We are pilgrims and strangers on earth, and our ultimate hope is not in political systems or human leaders, but in the return of Christ and the establishment of His eternal kingdom. This does not mean we are disengaged from society. On the contrary, Jesus called His followers to be salt and light in the world.
Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
As salt, Christians are called to preserve what is good and to prevent decay in society. As light, we are to expose darkness and reveal truth. This influence can manifest in various ways: through living godly lives, advocating for righteousness and justice, participating in civic processes (where permitted), and most importantly, through sharing the transforming gospel of Jesus Christ. Our most profound impact on government and society comes not from political power, but from spiritual transformation in individual lives.
Conclusion
The Christian's relationship to government is one of respectful submission to God's ordained authority, tempered by an unwavering commitment to obey God above all else. We are called to honour rulers, pay taxes, pray fervently for those in power, and live quiet, peaceable lives that reflect the godliness of Christ. While understanding that earthly governments are temporary and fallible, we recognize their divine purpose in maintaining order and restraining evil. Our ultimate hope and allegiance remain with our heavenly King, Jesus Christ, whose kingdom is not of this world. By living out these biblical principles, Christians can be a powerful testimony to the transforming power of the gospel, influencing society for good and pointing others to the true source of all authority and hope.