Matthew 22:15 – 22; Romans 13:1 – 7 Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore, whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgement. – Romans 13: 1 – 2 Christian communities of faith have St. John’s vision by which to distinguish the politics of the dragon from the politics of the Lamb. We are in a crossfire of blustering dragon-pretension and powerful Lamb-meekness. They are equally concerned with the operation and use of power. We choose… we follow the dragon… or we follow the Lamb…we are in politics whether we want to be or not… - Eugene Peterson Context: Christians in the Crossfire of First Century Rome Who are the Governing Authorities Instituted by God? God’s Appointed (vs. 1 – 2) b. God’s Servants (vs. 3 – 5) c. God’s Ministers (vs. 6 – 7) How are Christians to Live under Governing Authorities? Be subject to them (vs. 1 – 2) b. Do what is good (vs. 3 – 4) c. Keep a clean conscience (vs. 5) d. Render to them what you owe (vs. 6 – 7) When should Christians Resist their Authority? When asked to violate a command of God (Acts 5:28 – 29) b. When asked to do an immoral act (Genesis 39:6 – 10) c. When asked to violate their own conscience (Rom 13:5; 1 Pet. 3:16) Study and Discussion Questions The Call to Submit to Governing Authorities Romans 13:1 – 7 Open It What irritates you most about our government? 2. How do you feel when you prepare your income tax forms? Explore It How is a Christian to respond to the laws and leadership of government? (13:1-7) 4. What consequences will those who rebel against the government bring upon themselves? (13:2) 5. What should a Christian do to maintain a good relationship with the government? (13:3-4) 6. For what reason are government officials in power? (13:4) 7. In addition to tax revenues, what does a Christian owe to his or her government? (13:7) Get It How would God want us to act if government leaders were openly persecuting Christians? 9. How do evil, cruel rulers serve God’s plan and do good for God’s people? 10. Under what circumstances should Christians disobey government authorities? Apply It Which government official could you write or talk to this week and express your concerns? 12. Would you set aside time this week to pray for national, provincial, and local public officials?