Romans 13:1-7 Conscientious Citizenship

Welcome

Welcome

Hello everyone.

It is lovely to see you all and hear you all.

I pray you are staying healthy and encouraged in the Lord during these trying times!

Be assured you are in our prayers and we always appreciate your prays.

Hopefully all is working fine with Zoom, and you can hear and see ok.

We are also trying a teleconference option tonight for those without internet

You can use the chat box, or speak up, if you want to comment, ask a question or just get our attention.

Monday Nights are intended to be interactive, so there is no need to mute your mic unless there is allot of background noise.

Opening Prayer

Opening Remarks

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Let’s get straight into our study for tonight.

We are in that section of Romans, Chapter 12-15, that we have called “The Will of God for changed Relationships”

It is a very appropriate subject given the situation where we find ourselves.

Our reading tonight is

It is a very appropriate subject given the situation where we find ourselves.

Your bible version may or may not have a sub-heading, mine says “Submitting to Governments”.

Another way of putting that is “Conscientious Citizenship”.

Our reading is from the section of Paul’s letter to the Romans we have called, “The Will of God for changed Relationships”

Scripture Reading

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Romans 13:1–7 NKJV

1 Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. 2 Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. 4 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 on him who practices evil. 5 Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience’ sake. 6 For because of this you also pay taxes, for they are God’s ministers attending continually to this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor.

Give you all a little time to look at your versions.

Question and Discussion 1

I would like to start by asking the same question as we began with last Monday.

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Look at , which of Jesus’ words and teachings does this bring to mind?

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John 19:11 NKJV

11 Jesus answered, “You could have no power at all against Me unless it had been given you from above. Therefore the one who delivered Me to you has the greater sin.”

How is this helping us to understand ?

Delegation of authority is from God

But such delegation is always with accountability before God.

Jesus would almost seem to be helping Pilate in this no win situation

The Jewish leaders are misusing the authority of Pilate to achieve there wicked ends.

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Mark 12:17 NKJV

17 And Jesus answered and said to them, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” And they marveled at Him.

How is this helping us to understand Romans 13?

Those immortal words of exhortation, “and to God, the things that are Gods”.

The Greek-Roman Context of the Early Church

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I would like to take a little time to talk about the Greek-Roman Context of the early church, hence the setting for .

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Paul is writing this letter primarily to the Christians in Rome, though we know Paul’s letters did get circulated around the early churches.

Romans 1:7 NKJV

7 To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul is writing this letter to primarily to the Roman Christians.

As mentioned before, Paul probably wrote this letter from Corinth, in Greece, during his third missionary journey.

The notes in the Andrews Study Bible say,

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Andrews Study Bible Notes Date and Place of Writing

Paul probably wrote Romans from Corinth around A.D. 57–58. The epistle was certainly written after A.D. 52, probably toward the end of his third missionary journey (Acts 20:2–3) in A.D. 57 or 58, during his three-month stay in Corinth.

Andrews Study Bible Notes Date and Place of Writing

Paul probably wrote Romans from Corinth around A.D. 57–58. The epistle was certainly written after A.D. 52, probably toward the end of his third missionary journey (Acts 20:2–3) in A.D. 57 or 58, during his three-month stay in Corinth.

Claudius

So Paul’s letter to the Romans would have been written after the Roman Emperor Claudius’ death in AD 54.

Why is that of note and important?

Because Claudius was the Emperor who expelled the Jews from Rome.

It is in the Bible!

We read in,

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Acts 18:1–2 NKJV

1 After these things Paul departed from Athens and went to Corinth. 2 And he found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla (because Claudius had commanded all the Jews to depart from Rome); and he came to them.

Nero

Nero, the infamous Nero, became Emperor in AD 54 and ruled for 14 years, so till AD 68

Notable events under Nero were,

AD 54, The Jews return to Rome after Claudius’s death

One of the reasons for Paul’s desire to visit Rome, may have been to meet again some of those he met in Corinth.

Also, Paul’s letter and content may well reflect the Jewish and Gentile make-up of the church, especially after the Jewish return in AD 54.

AD 64, Fire of Rome: persecution of Christians

AD 66–70, Judean revolt against Rome

So this is some of the context and setting that Paul writes .

The New Testament in Its World: An Introduction to the History, Literature, and Theology of the First Christians The Jewish World Reconstructed (AD 70–135)

AD 54–68 Nero

• 54 Jews return to Rome after Claudius’s death

• 60–2 Porcius Festus

• 62 James the Just executed during interregnum (Jos. Ant. 20.200)

• 62–5 Lucceius Albinus

• 63 Temple finally completed

• 64 Fire of Rome: persecution of Christians

• 65–6 Gessius Florus

• 66–70 Judean revolt against Rome

AD 70 Jerusalem captured by Titus (who became Emperor later) and the Temple destroyed

Rome

So Rome during Paul’s time is the Capital of the world, so to speak.

The very centre of the hellenistic or greek and roman culture.

The power seat of the Roman Empire.

So this is the context and setting for .

A church comprised of Gentiles and Jews.

With many of the Jews recently returned from banishment.

And Living under the infamous Nero!

Imagine living in those times!

The trying times we are experiencing as this time may help us appreciate better the times in which Paul is writing.

Question and Discussion 2

Wright, N. T., & Bird, M. F. (2019). The New Testament in Its World: An Introduction to the History, Literature, and Theology of the First Christians (p. 142). London; Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Academic; SPCK.

Let’s move to our second discussion question.

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says that we are to submit to governing authorities. Why?

The New Testament in Its World: An Introduction to the History, Literature, and Theology of the First Christians The Social Order

senatorial class represented the wealthy nobility of Rome and provided the primary cohort of civil and military administrators.

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The state’s authority is derived from God, and this he affirms three times.

1) There is no authority except that which God has established (1b).

2) The authorities that exist have been established by God (1c).

3) Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted (2a).

Question and Discussion 3

Next discussion question,

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What cautions do we need when interpreting this?

Some useful quotes,

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John Stott

The Message of Romans 1. The Authority of the State (1–3)

Paul means rather that all human authority is derived from God’s authority, so that we can say to rulers what Jesus said to Pilate, ‘You would have no power [exousia, authority] over me if it were not given to you from above.’ Pilate misused his authority to condemn Jesus; nevertheless, the authority he used to do this had been delegated to him by God.

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Desire of Ages Chapter 66—Controversy

Christ’s reply was no evasion, but a candid answer to the question. Holding in His hand the Roman coin, upon which were stamped the name and image of Caesar, He declared that since they were living under the protection of the Roman power, they should render to that power the support it claimed, so long as this did not conflict with a higher duty. But while peaceably subject to the laws of the land, they should at all times give their first allegiance to God.

How do we know if what we are being asked to do conflicts with a higher duty?

God has promised that He will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can endure.

They are mostly large very main and plain.

We have many examples of tests of loyalty in the Bible. During the Exodus. During the Judges. During the Kings. During the Exiles. During Jesus days. During the Acts of the Apostle and the Early Church.

The Golden Calf

They are mostly main and plain choices of loyalty.

It was for the early church.

This is not an excuse for a rebellious and paranoid attitude towards government.

We all know what happens when people who cry wolf to many times!

People stop listening to them.

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The New American Commentary: Romans 2. In the World (13:1–14)

The believer’s ultimate allegiance is to God. Wherever the demands of secular society clearly violate this higher allegiance, the Christian will act outside the law. This, of course, must not be done in a cavalier fashion.

We all know what happens with people who cry wolf to many times!

People stop listening to them.

Question and Discussion 4

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How do we know if what we are being asked to do, conflicts with a higher duty to God?

God has promised that He will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can endure.

We need to know our bibles!

Can we think of some examples in the bible?

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Exodus 1:7 NKJV

7 But the children of Israel were fruitful and increased abundantly, multiplied and grew exceedingly mighty; and the land was filled with them.

Example from the OT

Where the midwives where asked by the King of Egypt to kill new born boys

Exodus 1:17 NKJV

17 But the midwives feared God, and did not do as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the male children alive.

They were blessed by God for this civil disobedience!

Example from the NT

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Acts 5:27–29 NKJV

27 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest asked them, 28 saying, “Did we not strictly command you not to teach in this name? And look, you have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this Man’s blood on us!” 29 But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men.

Acts

Jesus last command to His disciples is clear in . We call it the great commission.

Matthew 28:18–20 NKJV

18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

We are warned that in the final days there will be tests around worshipping the true God and around buying and selling.

Tests of loyalty to God and His clear commandments!

How can we be ready for more difficult testing times? Only but saying yes to God today, and each day.

It is like getting ready for a marathon. It is only by daily exercise and preparation.

Question and Discussion 5

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Question and Discussion 5

What does Paul call the state in ? Three times!

The greek here is diakanos (d-ak-a-nos), meaning servant, minister or deacon.

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1. For he is God’s servant to do you good (4a).

2. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath, to bring punishment … (4c).

3. The authorities are God’s servants … (6).

The Message of Romans 2. The Ministry of the State (4–7)

1. For he is God’s servant to do you good (4a).

2. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath, to bring punishment … (4c).

3. The authorities are God’s servants … (6).

The restraint and punishment of evil are universally recognised as primary responsibilities of the state.

The restraint and punishment of evil are universally recognized as primary responsibilities of the state

I think we will all agree this is far from perfect.

The Message of Romans 2. The Ministry of the State (4–7)

The restraint and punishment of evil are universally recognized as primary responsibilities of the state

Taxes

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Romans 13:6–7 NKJV

6 For because of this you also pay taxes, for they are God’s ministers attending continually to this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor.

Paul concludes with paying Taxes.

The Message of Romans 2. The Ministry of the State (4–7)

Taxation was widespread and varied in the ancient world, including a poll tax, land taxes, royalties on farm produce, and duty on imports and exports

How much we all like paying Taxes.

Mary Hinks

Taxation was widespread and varied in the ancient world, including a poll tax, land taxes, royalties on farm produce, and duty on imports and exports.

Helen. Mary’s daughter. Front line. Occupational therapist.

Nephew Oscar and Niece Madeline. Health Service. Doctors.

Acts of the Apostles Chapter 6—At the Temple Gate

We are not required to defy authorities. Our words, whether spoken or written, should be carefully considered, lest we place ourselves on record as uttering that which would make us appear antagonistic to law and order. We are not to say or do anything that would unnecessarily close up our way. We are to go forward in Christ’s name, advocating the truths committed to us. If we are forbidden by men to do this work, then we may say, as did the apostles, “Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.”

Sounds like today!

Currency in use at Jesus time.

Roman Denarius

Greek Drachma

Hebrew Shekel

There was even a Temple Tax.

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Mat 17:24

Greek Drachma

Matthew 17:24–25 NKJV

24 When they had come to Capernaum, those who received the temple tax came to Peter and said, “Does your Teacher not pay the temple tax?” 25 He said, “Yes.” And when he had come into the house, Jesus anticipated him, saying, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth take customs or taxes, from their sons or from strangers?”

Matt 12:12-13

Matthew 12:12–13 NKJV

12 Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep? Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.” 13 Then He said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And he stretched it out, and it was restored as whole as the other.

Every Jewish male 20 years old and older was required to pay an annual temple Tax.

But the temple system was corrupt

The equivalent of two days’ wages. This tax was designated for the upkeep of the temple

Andrews Study Bible Notes Chapter 17

Every Jewish male 20 years old and older was required to pay an annual temple tax. The Greek double drachma was worth the Hebrew half a shekel, which was the equivalent of two days’ wages. This tax was designated for the upkeep of the temple

Currency in use at Jesus time.

Roman Denarius

Greek Drachma

But the temple system was corrupt

Hebrew Shekel

For example, let’s say you brought your Dove for offering to the Lord. There would be an inspection of it. Many times of-course, it was not a good enough Dove, but wait we have one here for you, at an inflated price.

Oh, you can only use the temple currency, the Hebrew Shekel, so if you have the Roman Denarius or Greek Drachma, you have to exchange it and of-course there exchange rates were all set to maximise money for the temple.

Is it any wonder that we read,

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Matthew 21:12–13 NKJV

12 Then Jesus went into the temple of God and drove out all those who bought and sold in the temple, and overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves. 13 And He said to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you have made it a ‘den of thieves.’ ”

In Conclusion

(po-ten-tates - earthly rulers)

Acts of the Apostles Chapter 6—At the Temple Gate

The banner of truth and religious liberty held aloft by the founders p 69 of the gospel church and by God’s witnesses during the centuries that have passed since then, has, in this last conflict, been committed to our hands. The responsibility for this great gift rests with those whom God has blessed with a knowledge of His word. We are to receive this word as supreme authority. We are to recognize human government as an ordinance of divine appointment, and teach obedience to it as a sacred duty, within its legitimate sphere. But when its claims conflict with the claims of God, we must obey God rather than men. God’s word must be recognized as above all human legislation. A “Thus saith the Lord” is not to be set aside for a “Thus saith the church” or a “Thus saith the state.” The crown of Christ is to be lifted above the diadems of earthly potentates.

We are not required to defy authorities. Our words, whether spoken or written, should be carefully considered, lest we place ourselves on record as uttering that which would make us appear antagonistic to law and order. We are not to say or do anything that would unnecessarily close up our way. We are to go forward in Christ’s name, advocating the truths committed to us. If we are forbidden by men to do this work, then we may say, as did the apostles, “Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.”

Greek Drachma

Hebrew Shekel

Prayer

I would like to move us into our time of prayer with this reading,

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1 Timothy 2:1–2 NKJV

1 Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.

I would like to move us into our time of prayer.

We have many reasons for prayer at this trying time and I want to encourage you to pray, and to pray out loud.

It is special when God’s people pray together.

This is the time to be strong and courageous in our faith.

Norma and I received the following from a Front Line Nurse on Saturday Night.

“I’m at work today! Taking care of my first positive (Covid-19) patient . Very nice man, aged 46, who is very scared . As mush as it makes me nervous I know the patient is even more so and they don’t know if they will ever see their families again unless they get better. We are allowing no visitors into the hospital . I have the best equipment the hospital can offer to keep us safe . Taking proper precautions and cleaning everything 3 times”.

The nurse who wrote that is our daughter Rebecca, who works in the ICU in a hospital in California.

Mum and Dad could not be more proud of her.

I know there are others here with loved ones in harms way.

This is the time for prayer, especially for those in harms way!

Mary Hinks

Helen. Mary’s daughter. Front line. Occupational therapist.

Nephew Oscar and Niece Madeline. Health Service. Doctors.

So lets us remember all those on the front line at this time.