One of the Biblical truths I struggle with is hinted in this verse. It is the idea that government is established and legitimized by God. Consider the words of Paul:
(Romans 13:1 KJV) 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.The NASB translates “higher powers” as “governing authorities.” Governments are ordained by God. That is hard enough to accept here where we have a say in things. I can’t imagine how that stuck in the craw of the Christians in the Roman Empire or Nazi Germany. How would you like to be a Christian in Iran?
There are aspects of God’s sovereignty that I do not understand. I guess that is why He has the job. There is a qualifier to this in the next verse, but that is for another day.
So? It is acceptable to question and struggle for understanding. The key is to not let the things we don’t understand keep us from living the things that we do. Plow the field that is yours, not the one you don’t own.
3 comments:
But what if they are Tyrants or Maroons?
I have a hard time with this one as well. On the other hand, look at what a fine mess "Liberation Theology," has caused for a number of Churches. And the people that have died as a result.
There seems to be a pretty big emphasis on the individual in the New Testament. I don't always understand it all either.
That's the only sense our current government makes to me. We KNOW the world is getting ready for the anti-Christ, so it's only natural that the government should lead the charge.
Budde, What do you mean "if"? Fortunately they are not only maroons but they are also golf balls.
Georges, I am not a big proponent of the end times but I find it harder to deny how things seem to be progressing.
Grace and peace.
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