I'm From the Government...

I. Intro.- Whiskey Rebellion

A. Describe the Whiskey Rebellion

B. Read Romans 13:1-7, Pray

C. Intro Statement

This is the most debated passage throughout church history, do we obey the government or is this just a glimpse into the ideal of what government is? I have read from those who suggest that all governments everywhere are instituted by God and so we need whole hearted obedience to the governing authorities, to If Paul were to write during the time Nero, then he wouldn’t have written the same things. What most do is take this passage as a stand alone and build a doctrine based on only these seven verses. I was very disappointed that most of those I read did not include the two passages around it to help with interpreting this passage. There are two keys to understanding this passage, 12:18 and 13:8. Which brings us to Step 3 in finding the Will of God for your life: Be a good Citizen.

II. Who is the Government? (v1-2)

A. Subject to What?

1 Pet 2:13-14

Is our Government any different?

B. Instituted By God?

Colossians 1:16 “For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.”

Some commentators take the boundaries to be instituted by God, others the leaders themselves where.

C. Incurring Judgement?

What happens when we disobey? Remember the Whiskey Rebellion.

Especially in a Pax Romana system, Peace is King Remember Last week

III. What the Government does (v3-4)

A. Reward Good

Mordecai in the Book of Ester.

B. Punish Evil

Bearing the sword

My Servant in Jeremiah

C. A Case for Christian Government

1 Corinthians 15:24 “Then comes the end, when he delivers the kingdom to God the Father after destroying every rule and every authority and power.”

Legislating Morality?

IV. Our Response (v5-7)

A. For Conscience

For the Peace

There are numerous passages in the Bible where Disobedience was commended.

B. Pay your Taxes...

C. Pay what is owed

V. Conc.- Step 3 In Finding the Will of God

A. Be A Good Citizen

B. Be at Peace

C. Owe no one anything