government

This is a very curious passage in one of Paul's letters to fellow Christians.

Let's give it a little context...

When Paul wrote this, all the places he went to or lived in were ruled by the Roman Empire - to say this empire was decadent would be a significant understatement.

It was led by a totalitarian dictator / emperor. These men were not nice people.

If a person was a Roman citizen, there were certain laws that could help or protected them.

If a person wasn't a Roman citizen, well, that could be pretty problematic.

Corruption was common at every level of government.

It was a nasty time in a nasty empire.

And Rome was considered the most civilized government of the time.

So imagine what fun places the countries outside the Roman orb must have been!

And Paul was writing this to the Christians in Rome, the capital of this empire - a place that felt like they'd seen it all & done it all.

So, read what he wrote about governments.

And then consider all he says in light of today.

No comments, please - I'm afraid there could be some flaming in any discussion.

Just read what Paul says & think about it...



Romans 13

1 Everyone must submit to governing authorities.

For all authority comes from God,

     and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God.
2 So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted,

     and they will be punished.
3 For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right,

     but in those who are doing wrong.

Would you like to live without fear of the authorities?

     Do what is right,

     and they will honor you.

4 The authorities are God's servants,

     sent for your good.

But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid,

     for they have the power to punish you.

They are God's servants,

     sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong.
5 So you must submit to them,

     not only to avoid punishment,

     but also to keep a clear conscience.

6 Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons.

For government workers need to be paid.

     They are serving God in what they do.
7 Give to everyone what you owe them:

     Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them,

     and give respect and honor to those who are in authority.