12/13/2010
Author: Gordon Douglas
Rethinking Political Freedom
As Christians sometimes we get lost between our American culture and biblical Christianity. Take our attitude towards our political leaders for example. We feel like we have the right to do all kinds of things that are unbiblical. I'll just list two that I've seen in personal conversation.
· We talk about refusing to pay our taxes. When we do so we are simply rationalizing our duty away while ignoring the clear mandate of the Scriptures.
· We feel justified to speak all kinds of 'trash talk' about our elected leaders. When we do so we refuse to be in obedience to the clear teaching of the Bible.
Read those the following passages and then the three summary statements and two action points that follow. As those who have been raised in a culture where we are entitled to many freedoms, including free speech, we need to rethink our freedoms, as God’s servants, in the light of God’s Word.
1 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. 2 Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 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. 4 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. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. 6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.
Romans 13:1-7 (NIV)
Romans 13:1-7 (NIV)
13 Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, 14 or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. 15 For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. 16 Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. 17 Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.
1 Peter 2:13-17 (NIV)
1 Peter 2:13-17 (NIV)
… for it is written, ‘You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.’ ” - Acts 23:5 (ESV)
28 “You must not dishonor God or curse any of your rulers. - Exodus 22:28 (NLT)
28 “You must not dishonor God or curse any of your rulers. - Exodus 22:28 (NLT)
1 I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone-- 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior, - 1 Timothy 2:1-3 (NIV)
It is clear the the Bible teaches the following principles:
1. Respect for authority – Were the king, governors and leaders in Paul’s day such honorable men that they earned his respect? No, many were just as corrupt and fallen as some of our leaders today.
2. Submission to authority – Our submission to authority flows from our submission to God and Christ. Why? Because, in His providence, God has raised them up.
3. Honor the 'king'/authorities – We should not speak evil of the ‘king’. ‘You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.’ ” - Acts 23:5 (ESV). As Christians, do we have the right to curse President Obama or any other elected official? According to the Scriptures the answer is NO!
What then is the proper biblical response? – Follow the clear teachings of Scripture by living a godly life as Christ's servant before the watching world, submit to authority and pray for those in authority.
What are some possible personal responses? – Vote! Educate yourself about the issues. Criticize the proposals and policies and do not slander the people. Get involved in the political process at some level. As Christians, who are Americans, we are free to be involved in the political process! So, as God moves you to some level of involvement remember the clear teachings of Scruipture.
May God bless America as we return to godly Christian values.
