Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. (Rom. 13:1)
Expanded Passage: Romans 13:1-7
I was a twenty-year-old driving a fifteen-passenger van and trailer to a mission site. At 2 a.m. on a Friday night, my youth pastor friend and I encountered flashing blue lights. The officer questioned our speeding van filled with supplies blocking the windows. I explained our 1200-mile destination, and he told us to slow down, noticing our matching camp shirts.
From this experience, I learned two essential lessons: the value of slowing down and the importance of wearing wear matching shirts! While I initially disliked the slow speed limit, I came to recognize the wisdom in obeying it. Whether it’s a speed limit or a policy, there are laws that need to be followed. Obeying is easier when it’s a small rule, but what about when policies conflict with God’s will?
In Paul’s time, the early church grappled with obeying both Roman and Jewish laws. One culture was rife with many gods and the other denied Christ’s divinity. Paul emphasized obeying God’s commands while respecting earthly authorities, even when they misuse their power like Pilate and his condemnation of Christ. This perspective follows Paul’s earlier teachings in Romans 12:14–21, advocating for forgiveness and nonretaliation. Instead of responding with violence or disobedience, we are encouraged to emulate Stephen, who, in the face of persecution, shared the gospel even as he faced martyrdom.
Obey God’s ordained authorities, even in challenging times.
Hunter Curtis is a husband and father who loves traveling, reading, and equipping leaders. He is a licensed minister and operates a graphic design business.
© 2024 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
