learning DAILY

Romans 1 Let every soul be subject to the government authorities.  For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.

Paul was a great apostle of Jesus Christ.  He wrote most of the New Testament as led by divine inspiration.  But I have to admit that this verse has made me stop and wonder what he was thinking on more than one reading.  Did any questions come to your mind while reading this?  The same ones I have asked came flooding back to me this week when planning the pages of this blog.

First let me give what I believe we need to take from this verse.  God commands Christians to obey the government where they live as an institution ordained and established by Him.  Government was instituted because in a fallen world we need restraints to protect us from chaos and lawlessness that is a natural result of sin.  God has ordained the government to be His agent for justice, to restrain evil by punishing those who do wrong, and to protect the good in society (verses 3-4).  Understand that Paul is describing government as it should be!  When the government abandons its proper role, it no longer operates as God intended, according to His purpose.  Then we have a problem(s)! 

Here come the questions. What happens when government requires action that is contrary to the Word of God?  Answer: Christians must obey God rather than other humans.  This has not been a problem in this country – so far.  However, events are happening right now that may cause you and me to have to decide who and what we are going to follow.  There is so much anti-God teaching in schools - and even from church pulpits today - that is an indoctrination of evil.  Take a moment to think about that. 

If God appoints authorities, as this verse says, why do leaders promote ungodly agendas?  Why were there so many ungodly leaders in Israel?  I wish you had not asked that question.  Answer: It seems to me that God places those in authority who will best serve His ultimate plan.  That might mean placing one in leadership who will move the people in the direction God desires, even if it means persecution of His people (we need to be shaken to get us out of our complacent, self-satisfied way of thinking!).  That could move people to a closer relationship to Him due to prayer and right living or it could harden one’s heart.  Remember 9-11?  For a short time, churches were filled.  God can certainly use bad leaders to serve His purpose.

What happens when the government does not fulfill its responsibility?  Answer: Look at what is happening in this country right now.  Defund the police!  Are these people crazy?  Remember God’s plan for government was to eliminate chaos and protect the people.  What we are seeing is certainly a separation from that!  Mob rule, riots and looting, what’s yours is mine type of thinking.  People calling the police to have them come force a store owner to give up their merchandise because the store owner can collect insurance.  Chaos in the streets.  It is going to get worse and not better.

Take a good look at what is happening.  What you are seeing is a glimpse of what life will be like on this earth after the Christians are removed (the Rapture).  Right now, the only thing preventing chaos to reign is the Holy Spirit’s restraint and the prayers of Christians.  All will change once they are removed.  Then, the man of sin, the man of lawlessness, the Antichrist will come with his plan of peace and all will bow to him.

What do you do?  Answer: God is the ultimate ruler over all earthly rulers.  He sets up kings and removes kings according to His will (Daniel 2:21).  You are to be obedient to the rule of law as long as it does not violate God’s laws.  You are to pray for your leaders and those in authority over you.  Pray for the coming election and be sure to do your duty and vote.  This is certainly a day that you and I need to know God’s Word and live as He desires us to live!

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