Responding to Our Public Leaders

Responding to our Public Leaders

Romans 13:1-7 is a passage of Scripture devoted to the Christian response to our governmental leaders.  No matter which side if the isle and what model of leadership they offer, the Bible has a “one size fits all” approach the Christian should consider for his response to our public leaders.  Note the following Scripture:

“Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.  2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 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: 4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. 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. 5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

Application from Romans 13:1-7 includes:

1. Be a Good Subject. We do not have kings in America, but we do have leaders that God has appointed to lead us.  Even if we disagree with the leader, it is God who has placed him there.
2. Do Good Works. A citizen who is not breaking the law should have no fear of the government.  The government does not terrorize law abiding citizens.  Law breakers should be fearful of the consequences of their breaking the law.  The government was appointed by God to “bear the sword” or enforce the rules of the land.  People doing good should have nothing to fear.
3. Have a Clear Conscience. The leaders are held accountable to God, by God.  We can vote people in or out of office, but ultimately any leader answers the God. We can have a clear conscience in the areas of showing respect, observing the law, and being proper in our response to the leaders.
4. Show Honor. I have heard many “Good people” say jokes about various presidents or other political leaders.  It is not right to mock authority.  We are to show honor.  Even if the person is no longer respectable because of scandal, impeachment, or some other cloud hanging over them, the position they hold should be revered and respected.  God established and ordained the position they are holding. God put them in that position.  It is right to show honor, not name calling, mocking, or scorning.  Most people need to learn to disagree with grace.

Praying for our leaders is one final admonition for this post.  No matter if in “my” party, the “other” or no party, our leaders need our prayers.  We are on the same national team. It is God who “holds the Kings Heart.”  It is God who can work despite sinful men.  It is the Lord who shows mercy and grace every day.  We are to pray.  1 Timothy 2:1-2 declares: “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.”

Have you prayed for our nation today?  Have you prayed for the outgoing and incoming president?  Posting to social media is not as important as praying to God on behalf of our leaders.  Will you have a proper Christian response to our leaders?