“THE CHRISTIAN, THE GOVERNMENT, AND FEAR, PART II

“For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid;  

for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister,

an avenger to execute wrath an him who practices evil”

(Romans 13:4).

The Greek word to describe those who govern is diakonos, from whence we get the term “deacon.” A deacon is one who serves (see 1 Timothy 3:8, 12). In the same way, the purpose of all governments is to serve their communities. Paul describes those who govern as agents who promote civic and collective well-being and maintain order.

As a Christian, you are called to obey the laws of your country although, to a certain extent and in certain ways, they might seem unfair to you. God has not renounced His right to control the governments of the world. Pray, fast, educate, and familiarize your friends and family, as well as yourself, to live in peace with everyone, always, everywhere. Because  that pleases God.

Paul lived under one of the most perverse rulers in the history of the world, Nero. And yet he appealed for the protection of the law, knowing that it was not always followed and that it olden was unjust. He knew his rights and demanded they be respected. He remained a faithful citizen, obeying the laws of his country, but when he disagreed, he expressed his point of view courteously and respectfully.

Paul made it clear that Christianity is not a movement that seeks to change regimes. Our obligation is to preach the gospel and pray for those who occupy positions of authority in a government setting.

‘We are not as a people to become mixed up with political questions. All would do well to take heed to the Word of God, Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers in political strife, nor bind with them in their attachments. There is no safe ground in which they can stand and work together.”—Selected Messages, vol. 2, p. 336.

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Taken from: Devotional Thoughts for Women 2023
“DAUGHTER OF MINE” Do Not Be Afraid
From: Arsenia Fernandez-Uckele
Collaborators: Xiomara Perdomo & Esteban Cortes