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Our Relationship to the Government
Christians are “citizens” of God’s kingdom. He is Lord over their lives, and “we must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29). But that does not relieve believers from the responsibility to obey human governments. On the contrary, governing authorities have been instituted by God for our good.
The Bible is clear about the task of governors: they should punish those who do evil and praise those who do good. They should prevent disorder and chaos in society, by designing and carrying out legislation. They should lead the people in righteousness. And citizens, likewise, should obey the laws of their governments.
There is only one situation in which we should not obey our human government: if it forces us to break God’s commandments. In such circumstances, we should indeed “obey God rather than men.” In all other circumstances, we should “be subject to every human institution,” even though we might not always like it.
Which rules or laws do you find particularly hard to obey? Which ones do you find particularly good?
Scripture
About this Plan
In the apostle Peter's first letter to Christians, he discusses the right attitude toward other people, the position of husband and wife within marriage, and dealing with suffering. This reading plan covers chapters 2 and 3 of Peter’s letter.
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