Christians and Society

How do Christians relate to society at large?

What do we do with laws?

General Principles from Scripture:

Romans 13:1–7

Obey legitimate authority

Obey for both conscience’s sake and for avoiding penalties

Pay taxes

Give honor

1 Peter 2:13–17

Submission to proper ordinances

Obey the Lord

Obey proper authority

Specific Example from Paul (Acts 16:35–40)

Philippi, “the “foremost city of that part of Macedonia, a colony” of Rome, 16:12

Preached the Gospel, saw individuals saved (Lydia and her household), 16:14–15

Exercised a demon from a girl and caused societal unrest, 16:16–20

Were beaten by the multitude at the command of the magistrates, 16:21–24

The earthquake released them, God saved the jailer and his household, and they spent the evening in his home, 16:25–34

Now they were trying to release them, but Paul realized they did not know they were citizens (see 16:20–22)

The magistrates did not ask any questions, nor did they perform any investigations, Proverbs 18:13

Proverbs 18:13 NKJV

He who answers a matter before he hears it, It is folly and shame to him.

According to Roman Law, the magistrates could get in a ton of trouble, hence they eagerness to have Paul leave without any upheaval, 16:37.

Paul’s response was fascinating, “They have beaten us openly, uncondemned Romans, and have thrown us into prison. And now do they put us out secretly? No indeed! Let them come themselves and get us out.” (16:37)

Paul’s Response Aided the Church

Paul did not take it as a personal offense, but sought to establish Christianity, not as an attack on Rome, but as a legitimate religion.

–I Cor. 9:19–23 helps us see the emphasis in Paul’s life. It was not his rights (cf. I Cor. 8; Rom. 14), but the work of God in the Church.

Lessons We can Learn

Stay close to God in the midst of difficult situations (like Paul and Silas)

Use liberties wisely, with a focus on God first and personal reasons second

Make descisions carefully