Submitting

Steven’s Scribbles
“Submitting”
Rom. 13:1-7
    
    Being subject and submitting to the government is a requirement for a Christian. That may not be a popular topic, but it is clear what Paul tells the church in Rome and what Peter says in his general epistle (Rom. 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17). “Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.” In the days of “not my president” movement or endlessly degrading and lying about elected officials, this is a necessary reminder. When you remember that Romans was written in roughly AD 57 it makes this simple reminder even more powerful. During the time of writing of this book the infamous Nero Caesar was dealing terrible persecutions to Christians. He would later charge Christians fraudulently with the burning of Rome leading two a dual persecution at the hands of the Jews and the Roman government. While the Roman government, particularly Caesar, was feeding Christians to dogs, throwing them off of cliffs, and not allowing them to participate in daily market (because they wouldn’t call him lord), Paul tells them to be in subjection to their government. I first century christians can be in subjection to their government, certain we who live in the United States can do the same. I love you all!

In His service,
Steven Hugley