Why? Who? What? - Pr Albert Low

𝐎𝐛𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐆𝐨𝐝 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭, 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬. 𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐧 𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐆𝐨𝐝’𝐬 𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫, 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐚 𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐲.

In Romans 13, Paul writes about the relationship between believers and governing authorities. God allows earthly authorities to exist, having established them for a purpose, but He is not responsible for their actions. Those in authority have the responsibility to seek God's guidance and align their plans with His will, although they also have the freedom to choose their own path.

Paul encouraged believers to submit to governing authorities to avoid unnecessary conflict and persecution, especially considering the powerful Roman Empire and the small Christian communities at that time. His aim was to promote harmony between Christians and authorities, fostering peace. However, it's essential to note that even as Christians submit to human authorities, God remains the ultimate King.

As believers, we are called to obey authorities unless they contradict God's will. Instead, we can be transformed by renewing our minds, seeking understanding in God's truth, and living according to His purposes. If we face punishment as a result, we can trust that God is in control, and nothing can separate us from His love.

Paul's own life illustrates this principle. He entered Damascus as a persecutor and left being persecuted. Despite the authorities' desire to kill him, Paul's followers helped him escape. Paul didn't submit to authorities when they acted against God's will, aware that some authorities fear good conduct as much as bad. Through it all, Paul trusted that God was in control.

In conclusion, as Christians, we should submit to, honor, and respect authorities when their actions are legal and right. By showing love and building community, we strengthen relationships among people. Ultimately, our salvation draws nearer with each passing day, and our trust remains in God's sovereignty.