The Laurel Canyon church of Christ

"The Governing Authorities"

Jason Budd

Every 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. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves (Romans 13:1-2).

        First, we should notice that Paul is very specific about who is to be in subjection to the authorities: everyone! Often there are those who feel that they are above the law. Note that this passage does not give exemption to those whose ego can't fit under the law. Neither does it allow those who have spent their lives obeying it an exception here and there due to good behavior.
        A reason is given for this; it's that "there is no authority except from God." The implication is that God has granted and allows the government's authority to exist. To some, this means very little because they do not subject themselves to God's authority. However, to the Christian whose will is to the do the will of God, this message should be very clear - obey the authorities!
        Finally, Paul speaks to the consequences of disobeying the law. In this life, there are many who commit crimes and get away with it in the sense that the governing authorities of this world don't catch them. However, no one will escape the final judgment. Those who have crafted a life of lawlessness, "will receive condemnation upon themselves." Are you in subjection?