Romans 13

Joseph's life is a poignant example of modeling exemplary citizenship. He endured wrongful treatment and imprisonment. Despite his circumstances, he never wavered in his faithfulness to God or his love towards others. He provided for his brothers who betrayed him, recognizing God's sovereignty in his journey from the pit to the palace. His submission was not out of mere obligation but flowed from a heart of love, ultimately preserving his family and many others during a time of famine.

Daniel’s life in Babylon models exemplary citizenship. His life reflects submission to authority while maintaining unwavering love and fidelity to God. Taken from Jerusalem to serve in a pagan kingdom, Daniel submitted to his new leaders, serving them with excellence. Yet, he never compromised his love for God, even when facing the lions’ den. His respect for authority paired with his steadfast love for God became a testament to the kings he served under, influencing their views of the one true God.

Esther exemplified submission in love when she approached King Ahasuerus to save her Jewish people. Although she risked her life by approaching the king unsummoned, her submission was an act of sacrificial love. She strategically submitted to the king’s authority, and through her actions, not only was her people saved, but God’s providential love was displayed. Her story underscores the power of godly submission combined with selfless love.

Today, we consider what Romans 13 has to say about modeling exemplary citizenship. But what is the context of this chapter?

Romans 13 continues Paul’s discourse on how believers ought to live in light of the gospel they've received. After emphasizing in the earlier chapters the theological foundations of the Christian faith—such as justification by faith, the role of the law, and life in the Spirit—Paul, in Romans 12, turns to practical outworkings of the gospel in the life of the believer, focusing on genuine love and service in the community of believers. Romans 13 extends this application to the believer's relationship with the broader societal structures, particularly the governing authorities. By honoring and submitting to these authorities, the Christian reflects God's own order and purposes, bearing witness to the transformative power of the gospel not just in personal morality, but in civic responsibility as well. This chapter serves as a bridge that balances the believer's commitments to both the community of faith and the larger society, setting the stage for further exhortations on Christian liberty and mutual edification in the subsequent chapters.

What is the Main Idea of Romans 13?

The central theme of Romans 13 is to illustrate how believers are to live as exemplary citizens, honoring God through submission to governing authorities, fulfilling societal obligations, and conducting themselves with love and integrity as a testament to their faith.

What one thing does Romans 13 require us to do?

You Should Model Exemplary Citizenship

The proposition "You Should Model Exemplary Citizenship" captures the essence of Romans 13, encompassing both the submission to governing authorities and the conduct amongst the community as reflective of one’s citizenship in the kingdom of God.

Transition

Romans 13 shows several ways You model exemplary citizenship.

1. By Respecting Authority (Romans 13:1-7)

Jesus Christ's life was the epitome of exemplary citizenship, marked by a submission to earthly authorities that did not compromise His divine authority and mission. From His early life, Christ demonstrated respect for human institutions and laws. In the Gospel of Luke, we read that after the Passover feast in Jerusalem, a young Jesus, obedient to His earthly parents, returned with them and was subject to them (Luke 2:51). This act models the respectful submission to parental authority, an integral part of the social fabric of His time.

As His ministry unfolded, Jesus continued to demonstrate respect for authority and the rule of law, while simultaneously upholding His divine mission. When confronted with the question of paying taxes to Caesar, Jesus replied, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's" (Mark 12:17). This statement illustrates His recognition of the governing authorities' rightful role without compromising His ultimate allegiance to the Father's kingdom. He acknowledged the authority of earthly rulers while delineating the supremacy of divine authority.

In the Garden of Gethsemane, facing imminent arrest, Jesus submitted to the authorities, even though He had the power to resist or avoid capture. He told Peter to put away his sword, saying, "Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?" (John 18:11), thereby submitting to God's will and the human legal processes, despite their deep flaws and the injustice He would suffer.

Paul reflects on this attitude in Philippians 2:5-8, where he writes of Jesus, "Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to His own advantage; rather, He made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!" Here, Paul emphasizes Christ's humility and obedience, which led Him to respect human authorities to the point of death.

Furthermore, 1 Peter 2:21-23 tells us that Christ is an example to follow in His submission to authorities: "To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps." Peter explains that Christ did not retaliate when He was insulted or threatened but entrusted Himself to God who judges justly.

Throughout His earthly ministry, Christ exemplified how to live under human governance with respect and integrity, yet without losing sight of the divine law and kingdom principles. He demonstrated that exemplary citizenship involves a complex balance between honoring earthly laws and the higher law of God's kingdom. It is in this balance that Christ's followers are called to walk, modeling the exemplary citizenship He so perfectly embodied.

To delve into how we should model exemplary citizenship by respecting authority as taught in Romans 13:1-7, we must first recognize the pivotal word "ὑποτάσσω" (hypotassō), which means to arrange under, to subordinate, to subject one's self, to submit to one's control, and to yield to one's admonition or advice. This is not a call to blind allegiance but rather an invitation to a structured and orderly society, recognizing that authority ultimately comes from God— "ὑπερεχούσαις" (hyperechousais) refers to those in positions higher or above, indicating that authorities have been placed by God for a purpose.

In Romans 13, Paul emphasizes that resisting authority equates to opposing God's ordinance. However, this submission is not an unconditional surrender of discernment. The act of submission is bounded by the higher law of God. We see this concept elsewhere, such as in Romans 8:7, where the "mind of the flesh" is "ἐχθρὰ" (echthra) towards God and does not submit to God's law. Here, submission to God’s law is paramount and is implied as the standard for any earthly submission.

The apostles themselves, in Acts 4:19-20, beautifully exemplify the balance of submission and obedience to God over human authorities. Peter and John assert, "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge," after being commanded not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. They recognized a higher authority in God, even when facing the Sanhedrin.

Moreover, in 1 Peter 2:13-17, Peter uses the same term "ὑποτάγητε" (hypotagēte) for submission, reinforcing the concept of honoring authority as a testimony to one's faith. Yet, he also sets the framework that this submission is for the "Lord's sake," anchoring civil obedience in divine obedience. The message is clear: civil obedience reflects our allegiance to God, but it never supersedes our ultimate submission to God's authority. When human laws conflict with God’s commands, as with Daniel in the lion’s den or the Hebrew midwives in Egypt, the believer’s duty is to God first.

In these passages, the scripture is not advocating for a passive submission that permits injustice or evil; instead, it calls for a measured, thoughtful submission that seeks to do good and honor God. When earthly authorities command what God forbids or forbid what God commands, our allegiance switches from temporal to eternal, from human to divine.

To respect authority is to recognize God's sovereignty in the order of our world, participating as citizens who reflect His justice, mercy, and truth. This respect is an act of worship—a tangible acknowledgment that our ultimate citizenship is in heaven, and our earthly submission is but a shadow of our heavenly allegiance.

2. By Loving Your Neighbors (Romans 13:8-10)

Christ's entire earthly ministry was a demonstration of exemplary citizenship through the lens of divine love, fulfilling the law as expressed in Romans 13:8-10. His actions and teachings consistently revealed that true love for one's neighbor is the essence of fulfilling the law.

In the Gospel of Matthew, Christ's Sermon on the Mount lays out the principles of kingdom living, which include loving one's enemies and praying for those who persecute you (Matthew 5:44). This radical love goes beyond the legal requirements of the time and challenges His followers to exhibit a higher standard of love, reflective of God's unconditional love.

One of the most profound examples of Christ's love for neighbors is His interaction with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:1-26). Despite the deep cultural and religious animosities between Jews and Samaritans, Jesus breaks social barriers, engages with her in meaningful conversation, and offers her the living water of eternal life. This encounter not only demonstrates personal care and respect but also breaks societal norms to show love and grace to an individual considered an outsider.

Jesus further exemplified love for neighbors in His healing ministry, where He often touched the untouchables of society, such as lepers (Matthew 8:3), and extended mercy to the condemned, such as the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11). His actions were tangible expressions of love that fulfilled the law's intent beyond its letter.

The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) is another clear example where Jesus teaches what it means to love one's neighbor. In this story, the Samaritan, who was viewed as an enemy by the Jews, is the one who models neighborly love by caring for a wounded man, while others pass by. Through this parable, Jesus redefines the concept of 'neighbor' and teaches that love crosses ethnic and religious boundaries.

Paul reflects on the nature of love in 1 Corinthians 13, often called the "Love Chapter," where he describes the attributes of love, underscoring its importance and superiority over all other virtues. He points out that love is patient, kind, and not self-seeking—qualities that were embodied in Christ's interactions with people.

Furthermore, the Epistle of 1 John repeatedly emphasizes that God is love and that anyone who lives in love lives in God, and God in them (1 John 4:16). This love is displayed supremely in Jesus Christ: "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us" (1 John 3:16). The ultimate demonstration of Christ's love for His neighbors is found in His sacrificial death on the cross, where He bore the sins of the world out of obedience to the Father and love for humanity.

Through His life, teachings, and ultimate sacrifice, Jesus Christ provided the perfect example of what it means to love one's neighbor as oneself, thereby fulfilling the law and showing the path of exemplary citizenship rooted in divine love.

Romans 13:8-10 presents a powerful mandate for how believers should interact within society, emphasizing the principal debt that can never be fully paid—the debt of love. The Greek word for love used here is "ἀγάπην" (agapēn), which refers to a selfless, sacrificial, unconditional love. This is the love that prioritizes others' needs and well-being and is the foundational principle behind numerous commands throughout Scripture.

When Paul states, "Μηδενὶ μηδὲν ὀφείλετε" (Mēdeni mēden opheilete), "Owe no one anything," he introduces a financial metaphor. This is not necessarily a directive against the prudent use of credit as a financial tool but rather a broader command to fulfill all obligations. The continuation of the verse, "εἰ μὴ τὸ ἀλλήλους ἀγαπᾶν" (ei mē to allēlous agapan), "except to love each other," clarifies that the perpetual debt of love transcends all other debts. This is an obligation that remains with us always, even after all other debts are settled.

In Romans 12:10, Paul employs the term "φιλόστοργοι" (philostorgoi), a compound word for familial love, instructing believers to be devoted to one another in brotherly love. This reflects a community's internal relationships, whereas Romans 13:8-10 expands this love as a duty towards all, indicating an external social ethic.

Regarding the financial aspect, the principle of not owing anything to anyone might also suggest a lifestyle that avoids unnecessary debt, living within one’s means, and being faithful in fulfilling financial obligations. However, it should not be understood as an outright prohibition of all forms of credit. In 1 Timothy 5:8, Paul uses the term "προνοεῖ" (pronoēi), which means to take thought for, to provide for, and indicates a forward-looking care. This can be associated with responsible planning and management of resources, including debts.

The law’s fulfillment, as stated in verses 9 and 10, is encapsulated in the command to love our neighbor. The word "πληρόω" (plēroō), meaning to fulfill or to make complete, signifies that love is the consummation of the law. This love is further defined in 1 Corinthians 13, where Paul elaborates on the characteristics of "ἀγάπη" (agapē).

In Galatians 5:14, Paul reiterates this sentiment using "πληροῦται" (plēroutai), the law being fulfilled in one word, which is love. This is not just affection but action, a love that actively seeks the good of others, thereby upholding the law's intent.

Consequently, the teaching to love our neighbor as we model exemplary citizenship is about making love the guiding principle of every interaction. Debts of money, time, or service may come and go, but the commitment to love is constant and enduring, requiring ongoing action and reflection in how we treat others in every aspect of life. This love does not harm a neighbor; hence, it is the very embodiment of the law—law not as a set of rules, but as a course of life, reflecting the character of Christ Himself.

3. By Walking In Light (Romans 13:11-14)

Christ's life on earth was the embodiment of walking in the light, as He himself declared, "I am the light of the world" (John 8:12). His earthly ministry was marked by transparency, truth, and moral purity, actively opposing the works of darkness and calling others to live in the light of God's truth.

The Gospels are replete with instances of Jesus exposing the moral and spiritual darkness of His time. He challenged the hypocritical practices of the religious leaders, the Pharisees and the Sadducees, who imposed burdensome laws on the people while failing to practice the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). His confrontations with these leaders were not only about religious practices but were calls to integrity and authenticity—a return to walking in the light of God's law and love.

In His teachings, Jesus frequently used the metaphor of light to illustrate the righteous behavior expected of His followers. He urged them to be "the light of the world," shining before others by their good deeds (Matthew 5:14-16). This was not a call to a passive existence but an active participation in dispelling darkness through lives that reflect God's character.

Moreover, Christ's miracles were signs that revealed His divine nature, bringing light to the darkness of disease, death, and demonic oppression. Whether He was healing the blind, raising the dead, or calming the storms, Jesus was manifesting God's power and kingdom, showing that light overcomes darkness.

In the epistles, Paul speaks of Jesus' life as the light in terms of moral and spiritual awakening. In Ephesians 5:8-14, he calls the believers to walk as "children of light" and to have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness. This exhortation is based on the transformation that occurs through Christ: "For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord" (Ephesians 5:8). The transformation from darkness to light is also linked to wisdom and understanding God's will, which was perfectly exemplified in Jesus' life and ministry.

The apostle John also emphasizes this theme, asserting that "God is light and in him is no darkness at all" (1 John 1:5). Believers are called to walk in the light as Christ did, which includes a life of fellowship with others and purification from sin through His blood.

Jesus' walk in the light culminated at the cross, where He bore the sins of the world in broad daylight. The darkness that covered the land during His crucifixion (Luke 23:44-45) symbolized the weight of sin He carried, yet even this darkest moment was part of God's plan to bring about the ultimate victory of light over darkness with His resurrection.

Thus, throughout the Gospels and the epistles, the life of Jesus Christ is portrayed as a journey in the light, reflecting the holiness, truth, and love of God. His example calls His followers to live in the light, reject the deeds of darkness, and manifest the transforming power of the Gospel in their lives. Paul implores believers in Romans 13:11-14 to live in recognition of the time, to wake from sleep, for salvation is nearer than when they first believed. The imagery of night (νύξ nyx) and day (ἡμέρα hemera) is used to contrast the current age with the age to come. The exhortation to "walk" (περιπατέω peripateo) properly, as in the daytime, is a metaphor for living a life characterized by visibility, integrity, and God-honoring actions. The "armor of light" (ὅπλα φωτός hopla phōtos) suggests a lifestyle that actively opposes the deeds of darkness, embodying virtues that are not only defensive but also proactive in displaying righteousness. To "put on" (ἐνδύω endyo) the Lord Jesus Christ is to adopt His character and actions, effectively demonstrating what it means to walk in the light of God's presence. This passage, therefore, underscores the aspect of exemplary citizenship as it relates to moral and ethical conduct in anticipation of the Lord's return, advocating for a lifestyle that mirrors the transformative power of the gospel in the public square.

Pointing To Christ

Romans 13, carries themes that are inherently fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Christ embodies the ultimate form of submission to authority, as seen in His obedience to the Father, even to the point of death on the cross (Philippians 2:8). In doing so, He demonstrated the epitome of righteous behavior within the established structures of both divine and human ordinance.

Furthermore, the call to love one another (Romans 13:8) finds its perfect expression in Christ, who taught that the greatest commandment is to love God and the second is like it, to love one's neighbor as oneself (Matthew 22:37-39). Jesus lived out this command through His ministry and sacrificial atonement, showing that love is the fulfillment of the law.

The exhortation to “put on the armor of light” and to conduct ourselves properly as in the daytime (Romans 13:12-13) echoes the transformative impact of Christ's redemptive work. Believers are called to put on Christ (Romans 13:14), and in doing so, they are clothed in the righteousness of Christ, enabling them to live in a way that reflects His character.

Lastly, the urgent admonition to recognize the time and "wake up from slumber" (Romans 13:11) is illuminated by Christ's resurrection, which marks the new age of salvation and the approaching fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Christ’s return is the ultimate fulfillment of the 'day' that Paul speaks of, which will bring full salvation and the completion of God’s kingdom.

Thus, the themes of Romans 13 direct us to see Christ not only as the model for conduct but also as the empowering source through which believers can live out the high calling of exemplary citizenship, rooted in love and marked by the anticipation of His return.

Invitation

Romans 13 speaks to the heart of living a life that is pleasing to God, a life marked by submission to authority, love for others, and a conduct that reflects the light of Christ. Yet, this call to a holy living highlights a profound truth: on our own, we fall short of God’s glorious standard. The law, which commands love and righteousness, is the very thing that exposes our inability to live up to its demands (Romans 3:23).

The gospel of Christ comes as the beacon of hope in this realization of our moral bankruptcy. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, lived the perfect life we could never live, submitted to authorities—even unto death—out of obedience to the Father, and loved sacrificially, laying down His life for us. His death on the cross paid the penalty for our sins, satisfying God's righteous judgment (Romans 3:24-26), and His resurrection declares victory over sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

In light of Romans 13, the invitation to each one is clear and urgent. As the "night is nearly over; the day is almost here," the time to awaken from spiritual slumber is now (Romans 13:11-12). Trusting in Christ for salvation means to put off the deeds of darkness and to clothe oneself with the Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 13:14), not in an attempt to earn salvation, but as a response to the grace given freely through faith in Christ.

Therefore, let this appeal reach the depths of your heart: if you seek true transformation, the righteousness that surpasses that of the law, and the ultimate deliverance from the wrath to come, then trust in Jesus Christ. Believe in His atoning death and resurrection for your sins, and you will be saved (Romans 10:9). In Christ, you will find the strength to live out the high calling of Romans 13—not as a means to earn God's favor, but as the fruit of having received the unmerited love and mercy from God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Bibliography

"Exemplary Citizenship and Christian Conduct: An Exegesis of Romans 13." ChatGPT Conversations, OpenAI, 7 Nov. 2023.

Keywords

Romans, Romans 13, Authority, Love, Citizenship, Model, Light, Walking in light