This may not go over real well but it is something I do feel very strongly about and believe that it is incumbant on me to relate this, not for any political reasons, I am no longer a "political animal" (or right winged beast).
The important thing is that we have very clear instructions on how to behave in accordance to our country's laws and leaders, yes, it goes against our natural grain but isn't just about everything when we begin to truly seek pleasing Him?
Since I have been reading the articles on Bible Truths I have to say that the biggest, most powerful and profound thing I have learned is "the beast is me."
In the 30+ years prior to that discovery I was very convinced and content that the beast, antichrist and all my enemies (human & spirit) were "out there somewhere." That at some future point there would be this epic panoramic Armageddon with a literal man, in a literal 3rd temple proclaiming he is god and the world is spinning into oblivion as his murderous passion and frenzy know no limits the hoards of nations and peoples bow in reverence to him. As Ray might say; "What a crock."
My biggest enemy is me.
Looking at others as scapegoats because I may not agree with what I perceive to be bad decisions or choices is no longer a heavy yolk for me, it is not my call or responsibility to second guess, God is sovereign. God is in control and if we presume to say we know better without any facts to substantiate, without the knowledge of what is truly going on behind the scenes how can I be so presumptuous to say "I know better."
Rom 13:1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
Rom 13:2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
Pe 2:13 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;
1Pe 2:17 Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.
1Ti 2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
1Ti 2:2 For kings and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
1Ti 2:3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior;
Tit 3:1 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,
This is not to say we compromise the direct testimony of our Lord;
Act 4:18 And they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.
Act 4:19 But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.
Act 4:20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
His Peace and Wisdom to you,
Joe
Hi Joe,
Thanks for that great reminder. I have a sincere question. I'm not asking this to make a point but I really would like to know.
Should we protest or speak out if one in authority is abusing the rights of others?
Jesus spoke out against the Pharisees for being hypocritical and burdensome to others.
So I guess I am curious if we should speak out against leaders on matters such as abortion, war, genocide etc.
According to scripture
Rom 13:1 Let every soul be subject to the superior authorities, for there is no authority except under God. Now those which are, have been set under God,
Rom 13:2 so that he who is resisting an authority has withstood God's mandate. Now those who have withstood, will be getting judgment for themselves,
Rom 13:3 for magistrates are not a fear to the good act, but to the evil. Now you do not want to be fearing the authority. Do good, and you will be having applause from it."
Rom 13:4 For it is God's servant for your good. Now if you should be doing evil, fear, for not feignedly is it wearing the sword. For it is God's servant, an avenger for indignation to him who is committing evil."
Rom 13:5 Wherefore it is necessary to be subject, not only because of indignation, but also because of conscience."
On the other hand we can expect to suffer persecution for the sake of righteousness. I know we should be bold and never compromise the law of God and not disobey law of man unless it contradicts the law of God.
So my question is, should we protest our leaders for injustice?
My thought is that we should speak against wickedness in general and talk about the gospel.
Thanks,
Steve