Faithful Citizenship: Navigating Authority in Challenging Times

 

Summary

In these challenging times, we find ourselves grappling with the question of how Christians should respond to civil authorities. Romans 13:1-7 provides a foundational understanding, emphasizing that all authority is instituted by God. This passage calls us to be subject to governing authorities, recognizing their role as God's servants for our good. The concept of authority is deeply rooted in the imago Dei, as we are created in God's image to exercise dominion and order. However, the fall of humanity has marred this image, leading to a complex relationship with authority.

Paul's words in Romans were written in the context of first-century Rome, a time when the Roman Empire was hostile to Christianity. Yet, he urged believers to submit to authorities, a principle echoed by Peter in 1 Peter 2. This submission is not blind obedience but a nuanced understanding of authority as a divine institution. There are exceptions, as seen in the lives of Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, and the apostles, where obedience to God takes precedence over human authority.

The current global situation with COVID-19 presents a unique challenge. As Christians, we are called to be exemplary citizens, adhering to guidelines like social distancing to protect our communities. This is not a time for panic but an opportunity to demonstrate our faith and trust in God's sovereignty. We must pray for our leaders, seeking God's wisdom and guidance for them as they navigate these unprecedented times.

Ultimately, our obedience to civil authorities is an act of faith, trusting that God is in control and working all things for our good. This is a time to reflect on our role as Christians in society, to be a light in the darkness, and to eagerly anticipate the day when we can gather again as a community of believers.

Key Takeaways:

- Divine Ordination of Authority: All authority is instituted by God, and our submission to it reflects our trust in His sovereignty. This understanding challenges us to see beyond human flaws and recognize the divine order in governance. [09:06]

- Nuanced Obedience: While we are called to obey authorities, there are moments when obedience to God must take precedence. This requires discernment and a deep understanding of Scripture to navigate complex situations. [11:58]

- Christian Citizenship: In times of crisis, Christians should be exemplary citizens, demonstrating love and care for their neighbors. This is a gospel opportunity to show the world the peace and hope we have in Christ. [22:59]

- Prayer for Leaders: We are urged to pray for those in authority, recognizing the weight of their decisions and the need for divine wisdom. Our prayers can have a profound impact on the direction of our communities and nations. [25:43]

- Trust in God's Providence: Even in uncertainty, we trust that God is in control. This trust dispels fear and empowers us to act with courage and faith, knowing that God works all things for our good. [24:51]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:34] - Introduction to Authority
- [01:21] - Romans 13:1-7 Reading
- [03:06] - Imago Dei and Authority
- [04:40] - Context of Roman Authority
- [06:15] - Nuanced Obedience
- [08:04] - Reasons for Obedience
- [10:52] - Exceptions to Obedience
- [13:10] - Historical Examples
- [15:19] - Authority as God's Servant
- [18:14] - Conscience and Obedience
- [19:53] - Practical Application
- [21:50] - Christian Citizenship
- [25:10] - Prayer for Leaders
- [28:13] - The Joy of Gathering Again

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
- Romans 13:1-7
- 1 Peter 2:13-18
- Genesis 1:26-27

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#### Observation Questions
1. According to Romans 13:1-7, what is the source of all authority, and how should Christians respond to governing authorities? [01:21]
2. How does the concept of being created in the image of God (imago Dei) relate to our understanding of authority and governance? [03:06]
3. What examples from the Bible were mentioned in the sermon that illustrate exceptions to obeying civil authorities? [11:58]
4. How does the sermon describe the role of Christians during the COVID-19 pandemic in relation to civil obedience? [21:50]

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#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the understanding that all authority is instituted by God challenge or affirm your view of current political structures? [09:06]
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that obedience to civil authorities is an act of faith and trust in God's sovereignty? [24:51]
3. How does the sermon reconcile the tension between obeying civil authorities and the need for exceptions when God's commands take precedence? [11:58]
4. What does the sermon imply about the role of prayer for leaders, and how might this influence a Christian's perspective on political decisions? [25:43]

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#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you struggled with obeying a civil authority. How did your faith influence your decision, and what would you do differently now? [06:15]
2. The sermon mentions the importance of being exemplary citizens during crises. What specific actions can you take to demonstrate love and care for your neighbors in the current global situation? [22:59]
3. Consider the exceptions to obedience mentioned in the sermon, such as the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. How do you discern when to prioritize God's commands over human authority in your own life? [11:58]
4. How can you actively pray for your leaders, and what specific prayers might you offer for them during challenging times? [25:43]
5. The sermon emphasizes trust in God's providence. Identify a current fear or uncertainty in your life and discuss how you can trust God to work it for your good. [24:51]
6. How can you use the current situation as a gospel opportunity to share the peace and hope you have in Christ with others? [22:59]
7. Reflect on the joy of gathering as a community of believers. How can you maintain a sense of community and fellowship even when physical gatherings are limited? [28:13]

Devotional

Day 1: Divine Authority and Human Governance
All authority is instituted by God, and our submission to it reflects our trust in His sovereignty. This understanding challenges us to see beyond human flaws and recognize the divine order in governance. In Romans 13:1-7, Paul emphasizes that governing authorities are established by God and serve as His servants for our good. This perspective invites believers to view authority not merely as a human construct but as a divine institution that maintains order and justice in society. However, the fall of humanity has complicated our relationship with authority, often leading to tension and resistance. Despite these challenges, Christians are called to submit to authorities as an act of faith, trusting in God's ultimate control and purpose. [09:06]

"For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment." (Romans 13:1-2, ESV)

Reflection: In what ways can you demonstrate trust in God's sovereignty by respecting and submitting to the authorities in your life today?


Day 2: Discernment in Obedience
While Christians are called to obey governing authorities, there are moments when obedience to God must take precedence. This requires discernment and a deep understanding of Scripture to navigate complex situations. The lives of Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, and the apostles illustrate instances where divine commands superseded human laws. These biblical examples highlight the importance of prioritizing God's will when it conflicts with human authority. Christians must cultivate a discerning spirit, grounded in prayer and biblical wisdom, to recognize when to stand firm in their faith against unjust or ungodly decrees. [11:58]

"But Peter and the apostles answered, 'We must obey God rather than men.'" (Acts 5:29, ESV)

Reflection: Can you identify a situation where you might need to prioritize obedience to God over human authority? How can you prepare yourself spiritually for such a moment?


Day 3: Exemplary Christian Citizenship
In times of crisis, Christians should be exemplary citizens, demonstrating love and care for their neighbors. This is a gospel opportunity to show the world the peace and hope we have in Christ. The current global situation, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, presents unique challenges that require believers to act responsibly and compassionately. By adhering to guidelines like social distancing and supporting community efforts, Christians can reflect Christ's love and concern for the well-being of others. This proactive approach not only protects communities but also serves as a powerful testimony of faith in action. [22:59]

"Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." (Philippians 2:4, ESV)

Reflection: How can you actively demonstrate love and care for your neighbors in practical ways during this time of crisis?


Day 4: Intercessory Prayer for Leaders
We are urged to pray for those in authority, recognizing the weight of their decisions and the need for divine wisdom. Our prayers can have a profound impact on the direction of our communities and nations. By interceding for leaders, Christians acknowledge their dependence on God's guidance and intervention in the affairs of governance. This act of prayer not only supports leaders in their challenging roles but also aligns believers with God's heart for justice and righteousness in society. [25:43]

"First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way." (1 Timothy 2:1-2, ESV)

Reflection: Who are the leaders in your community or nation that you can commit to praying for regularly? How can you make intercessory prayer a consistent part of your spiritual practice?


Day 5: Trusting in God's Providence
Even in uncertainty, we trust that God is in control. This trust dispels fear and empowers us to act with courage and faith, knowing that God works all things for our good. In times of crisis or confusion, believers are reminded of God's sovereignty and His ability to orchestrate events for His purposes. This assurance allows Christians to face challenges with confidence, knowing that their lives are held securely in God's hands. By embracing this truth, believers can navigate life's uncertainties with peace and hope. [24:51]

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6, ESV)

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you struggle to trust God's control? How can you actively surrender this area to Him today?

Quotes


"Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad." [00:01:07]

"We are image bearers of God, and we are to exercise that image in dominion. We are to have dominion over the earth. Dominion brings to mind ideas of rule and government and order and structure and levels of bureaucracy and organization and an expectation of obedience and subjection, an expectation of compliance." [00:03:13]

"Paul speaks about governing authorities. Now we need to remind ourselves, of course, he's speaking about Rome, he's speaking about the Roman Empire. He's not even speaking about the Roman Empire from Constantine onwards that had a relationship with Christianity. We're talking about first century Rome where there is enormous antipathy towards the gospel." [00:04:43]

"We recognize levels of authority and we recognize levels of authority as God's doing, and those who hold those positions of authority in the home and in society, police and so on and local government and state government and federal government in the structures of the United States." [00:07:21]

"This is how God intends the world to be ruled, for civilization to take place, for law and order rather than anarchy take place. Well, he gives us several reasons. One, that the powers that be are ordained of God. That's a massive statement, carries a lot of weight. The powers that be are ordained by God." [00:08:22]

"Behind it, of course, lies a biblical view of providence that nothing happens without God willing it to happen. That nothing happens without God willing it to happen before it happens. That nothing happens without God willing it to happen in the very way that it happens." [00:09:06]

"There are exceptions, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, they're heroes. Peter and the apostles in Acts 4, they're arrested, sent into prison, told the next morning not to preach in the name of Jesus. And Peter says, 'We can't do that, we can't obey that. We must obey God rather than men.'" [00:11:32]

"Christians should be the very best citizens, and they should be the very best citizens in times of trouble. This is a gospel opportunity. You and I are going to have opportunities in the next few days and weeks, and who knows perhaps months, who knows? And we're going to have opportunities, not just to speak to the Lord's people, but to speak to others, members of the family, members of the public who are afraid." [00:22:48]

"Pray that God would give them wisdom and courage and discernment in the next few days and weeks. And lastly, however difficult it is, it is my belief from passages like this one in Romans 13 and passages in 1 Peter chapter 2, however difficult it is to comply with the authorities, we need to comply." [00:26:23]

"This is not, I think, an instance where to disobey would be saying, 'I need to obey God rather than men.' Now, you may come back to me and say, 'Doesn't the Bible say we should not forsake the assembling of ourselves together?' Well my dear friends, there are Christians all over the world, long before COVID-19, who were meeting in small, small groups in secret, the underground churches, for example." [00:27:56]

"And if this event teaches us anything at all, it teaches us two things. One, we really do need to pray for our brothers and sisters for whom this is the norm. We've been in it a week; they've been in it for decades, for the entirety of their lives. And this incident will teach us, I think, to pray for these brothers and sisters." [00:28:40]

"Father, we have little to no idea what lies before us. Everyday seems to bring something new but we will not panic, we won't yield to panic. We will trust in you, just as psalmist would say, 'Though I am afraid, I will trust in you.' So grant your blessing now upon the church worldwide. The true gospel, Bible believing church to do the right thing." [00:29:47]

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