Which are You?

Text: Romans 13:1-7

Introduction: Today is 245 years after 1776

Which are you? American Christian or Christian American

For Study - www.hillsdale.edu (free online studies of issues/history)

Adams: Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.

Washington: Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports….

It is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor.

Romans 13:1-7 - …the authorities that exist are appointed by God… Therefore you must be subject… Render therefore to all their due

1. God is ultimate authority and therefore ordains earthly authorities.

2. Christians submit to the Government to whom they are responsible (Good or

bad) for God’s sake.

3. Christians render duties to authorities as God determined.

1Pe.2:13-17 - …Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake … For this is the will of God… Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.

1. Institutions are either allowed or ordained by God (Marriage, Family, Govern)

2. Duty to authorities is to love, fear, honor those that God places in our lives.

1Pe.2:18-21 - …Servants, be submissive… For this is commendable… follow His steps

1. Servants are to be submission to Masters in fear to good or bad

2. Endure unjust suffering for God’s sake and patiently accept God’s oversight

3. Is Slavery inherently evil? Can slavery be evil? What makes it evil?

4. God allowed and oversaw slavery in OT/NT.

Conclusions:

• Christians should resist an authority that commands or compels evil and should work nonviolently within the laws of the land to change government that permits evil.

• Civil disobedience is permitted when the laws or commands are in direct violation of God’s laws and commands. There is no allowance for giving evil for evil.

• If a Christian disobeys evil laws, he should accept the punishment for his actions, unless he can flee to another country..

• Christians are encouraged to elect new leaders within present laws established.

Which are you? American Christian or Christian American