Civil Obedience. An Absolute or Not?

Romans13

The question is, how specific is Romans 13 to be taken, and when is it necessary to disobey?

I.          THE GENERAL PURPOSE FOR CIVIL OBEDIENCE AS UNDERSTOOD FROM ROMANS 13.

The overall purpose of this passage is clearly stated in the chapter, for general peace and civil contentment.

II.         COMPARING OTHER BIBLICAL USES OF THE TERM, SUBJECT.

            A. Wives to husbands.  Eph.5:24

            B. Christians to each other.  Eph. 5:21

We certainly do not understand either of these verses as pertaining to anything and everything. The godly wife, is not to subject herself to an abusive husband, nor to sinful actions. As well as the Christian does not subject himself to abuse within the body of Christ. Are these relationships far more important than the relationship of people to government?

III.       WHEN IS CIVIL DISOBEDIENCE NECESSARY?   Acts 4

            A. When obeying it violates the commands of God.

            B. When obeying it violates the conscience of the believer.