What is the relationship between the church and the
government? How should citizens of the kingdom of God (Philippians 3:20) relate
to their citizenship in the country in which they lay their head? There have
been various answers suggested over the history of the church. The two extremes
in responses to these questions are complete involvement to no involvement.
Whichever extreme one picks, there is one truth that lives large: God puts the
government ruling over your nation there. Here is how St. Paul writes about
this:
“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for
there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities
that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against
the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so
will bring judgment on themselves” (Romans 13:1-2).
Over the years I have met followers of Jesus who struggle
respecting those God has put over them. I have met Democrat followers of Jesus
who spoke with disdain of Republican presidents; I have met Republican
followers of Jesus who spoke with scorn of Democratic presidents. Both of these
groups will tell you they believe God is in charge and that God puts up kings
and puts down kings (Daniel 2:21). It is time to act like we actually believe
these words.
One final word, obey God’s command to pray for your leaders
(I Timothy 2:1-2).
Ronald Friesen © 2015
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