Biblical Attitude Toward Human Government. Romans 13:1-2
“1) Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. 2) Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.” Romans 13:1-2
Paul now launches into a discussion about human government. He observes that civil government is established by God. In the absence of government will be chaos and anarchy. Ultimately all authority can be traced back to God. Those who resist established government will receive condemnation upon themselves.
Is human government perfect? By no means. Can it become corrupt? As long as fallen humans govern there will be corruption. But is society better with a recognized system of law and order than with anarchy? Absolutely.
The great equalizer is that God holds governing authorities accountable. He can take down one king and establish another. Every leader is ultimately accountable to God.
This whole study is fascinating, because Paul is hammering out a Christian attitude toward government. He acknowledges that countries need a system of law, order, justice, trade and commerce policies and national defense.
What is really fascinating is that Rome was in power at the time of his writing. He did not call for the overthrow of Rome, rather he focused on the Great Commission and the ability of the gospel to influence those in authority. He saw God as the ultimate authority and ruler.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
