Submission to Civil Authority

What is the function of Human Government?  Paul, through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, taught the early New Testament Church their proper view and submission to government.  Government was ordained and instituted by God for three reasons : to protect, to punish, and to promote. 

FIRST, government was ordained and instituted by God to protect us.  Because of the sin nature of mankind, we need laws that govern our behavior in society.  Those who obey the laws instituted by God’s ministers need never fear : For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same : For he is the minister of God to thee for good. 

SECOND, government was ordained and instituted by God to punish those who break those laws.  But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain : for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.  Duly appointed human officials are to be regarded as God’s servants to “bear the sword,” to impose punishment upon criminals.  Peter says that they are sent for the punishment of evil doers (1 Peter 2 : 13-14).

THIRD, government was ordained and instituted by God to promote the general welfare of the community where its laws are in effect.  Paul commands us to pray for those in leadership positions so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty (see 1 Timothy 2 : 1-2).

We often criticise the law and those who uphold those laws.  Is it any wonder that our children today have so little respect for those who uphold the law or for anyone in a position of authority?  God provided the government as an authority to protect us.  When we step away from that God ordained authority we lose the protection God has provided.  Let’s be sure to obey the law so that we may set an example for our children.  Anything less will eventually result in anarchy.