I. The Word: Romans 13:1-2

1Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. 2Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.

II. Reflection Questions

1. Is Romans 13:1-2 an absolute or a general principle subject to exceptions?

2. Why does God require we be subject to governing authorities?

3. How will understanding God’s purpose for government affect your attitude?

Any discussion of Romans 13:1-2, almost invariably occurs in the context of its exceptions rather than its rule. We read it and we get it: we should generally be obedient to the government. But then the discussion turns quickly to the question: “When is it permissible to disobey?”

 We can probably all agree that attempting to overthrow Hitler was permissible because he was engaged in the systematic genocide of the Jews and was chief provocateur of world war. Is disobedience to Romans 13:1-2 permissible though based on a more philosophical basis such as opposition to taxation without representation? That is a tougher call. Theologians have grappled with the exceptions for hundreds of years. The problem with focusing so much on the exceptions is we can lose sight of the reason for the general rule.

Why is it even necessary that people be subject to the governing authorities? This is the question we should be asking, and it is the question that is rarely asked. The answer is both simple and profound: authority is the means by which God manages the planet.

“The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains. The world and those who dwell in it.” (Psalm 24:1). God owns the planet. He has plans for the planet. His original intent can be found in Genesis chapters 1 and 2.  But of course, humans rebelled against God and deviated from God’s plan for the planet. God’s solution was to send His son to reconcile humans to himself, establish His kingdom, and procure voluntary obedience to His will.

Those who obey Jesus and the laws of His kingdom should not need to worry about the governing authorities. Their obedience to Jesus and the laws of His kingdom will usually result in praise from earthly governing authorities. (Romans 13:3).   The governing authorities are not necessary to restrain people who are doing God’s will, i.e. doing good, but to restrain those who do evil. (Romans 13:4). Consequently, until the world becomes fully obedient to King Jesus, government is necessary.

Obedience to governing authorities then is not a worldly compromise; it is an acknowledgment God owns the world. We can understand then why Paul says, “Therefore, whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God.” (Romans 1:2). We can also understand why obedience to governing authorities should be more than perfunctory but actually a matter of conscience. See Romans 13:5 (“Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience’ sake.”).