THE AUTHORITIES
The Word of God has much to say regarding the subject of authority among men. While God reserves supreme authority over all of His creation (Isaiah 40, John 5:26-30), He has also set human government over the nations of the earth. When they operate according to His principles, the good of society results:
"Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.
For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.
Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience." Romans 13:1-5
"Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men." 1 Peter 2:13-15.
In the absence of a monarchy, we have public servants... who are to be held accountable to law and elections.
God has given civil governments the right and the responsibility to exercise rule over their respective nations, and to enforce judgement on wrongdoers. This is to be done justly, without prejudice or favoritism:
"Do not pervert justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous. Follow justice and justice alone, so that you may live and possess the land the LORD your God is giving you." Deuteronomy 16:19-20
The Bible recognizes that, all too often, governments can fall into the hands of the wicked, decreeing unrighteousness. In times such as those, it is the duty of all who love God to serve Him and obey His higher law:
"Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John replied, "Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard... We must obey God rather than men!'" Acts 4:18-20, 5:29
Submit to the authorities only as God would have you to.
Believe, Admit, Repent, Receive JESUS CHRIST!
Hebrews 11:6 Romans 10:9 Acts 3:19 John 1:12
Don't Die Guilty!