The Apostle Paul writes a letter to the Romans to speak about our faith in Christ and how it is expressed in many areas of life. In chapter thirteen he addresses the matter of those who are in authority and our response to those in power.
“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.” (Rom 13:1-2)
Who are we to submit to as followers of Jesus? Paul states that “everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities.” Who established these authorities? There is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. If I decide not to follow or submit to these authorities, then what? In verse three we read, “Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” God has established human governments, so to disobey human laws is to disobey God. God has instituted the governing authorities. It is comforting and we must understand that the government entity was designed and ordained by God Himself.
What is the God designed role for those in authority? For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. (Rom 13:4-5) Have you ever looked at those who hold an elected position as being God’s servant? The word “servant” (diakonos) is used two times in verse 4. In verse 6 we have the word “minister” (leitourgos) which is the same word as in Rom 15:16 – to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles with the priestly duty of proclaiming the gospel of God, so that the Gentiles might become an offering acceptable to God, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. God is the power behind the throne, ruler, and elected office. God is really in charge and the one on the throne is God’s Servant.
It is so easy to wonder at times what is going on and who is in control when it involves politics. We wonder at times is God really in control? Many times we question how this ruler or politician can be God’s servant. No doubt they will have to give an account before the High Judge of how they ruled others. Yes, God is in control as the Sovereign and He does call us to pray for those in authority. He calls us to honor those in authority.
Leaders of Faith staff truly love honoring and praying for our leaders. We welcome times to share Jesus of Nazareth with our leaders. Leaders of Faith is a wonderful ministry working in this
God ordained space with His fellow servants.