dealing with those in authority

Have you ever had an authority figure in your life that you had to respect but you really didn’t care for that person? Maybe this was a coach, a teacher, a boss, or maybe a government official.

1 Timothy 2:1 NLT

Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.

Did you know that person was in a position of authority because God designed authority to be part of our world and in God’s sovereign plan, that person was placed in that position?

Not always something else. In fact we would most likely rather complain, rebel or do anything besides honor that person we struggle to respect.

Yesterday we continued our series in Romans and began chapter 13. It is important that as Christians we are good citizens and examples for others to see Jesus.

Romans 13:1,4-5 NLT

Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God… 4 The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid, for they have the power to punish you. They are God’s servants, sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong. 5 So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience.

That is God’s desire for us and His plan for the world. Obey even when you do not like or agree, and let God work through it all.

Is it ever ok to disobey the government rule? Yes. Peter and John in Acts 4 were told not to preach about Jesus. Here is what they said:

Acts 4:18-20 NLT

So they called the apostles back in and commanded them never again to speak or teach in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John replied, “Do you think God wants us to obey you rather than him? 20 We cannot stop telling about everything we have seen and heard.”

That is the real civil disobedience. Really obeying God when the government officials are wrong.

So what is the best way to deal with and respect government and those in authority over you? Thanks for asking.

Four ways to deal with authority based on what God says … submit, obey, pray and serve. Sounds easy. And it is always right.

Romans 12:10 NLT

Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.

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