Spiritual Submission

Introduction:  Paul, in this text, says that the way we relate to our government is an indication of our commitment to Christ.

The Nature of Government

• Government is Part of God’s Plan (Romans 13:1-2)

• Government Leaders are God’s Servants (Romans 13:3-4a)

• Government is only Temporary (1 Corinthians 15:24)

The Purposes of Government

• To Protect Human Life  (Exodus 20:13)   (Genesis 9:6)

• To Make Laws that Protect Personal & Property Rights  (Exodus 20:15, 17)

• To Handle Disputes Between People   (Deuteronomy 1:12-13)

• To Punish Lawbreakers (Romans 13:4)

The Response & Responsibility to Government

Pre-requisites: Christians are citizens of 2 worlds; a Christian’s primary obedience is to God.   (Philippians 3:20)

• To Obey If Possible  (Romans 13:5)

• To Pray for Leaders  (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

• To Pay Taxes (Romans 13:6-7)

• To Influence for Good  (Matthew 5:13-16)

Application: The whole counsel of God’s Word implies that a genuine Christian will be a model citizen--a citizen of submission (when possible), of prayer, and of influence (by voting).