There’s a common misconception amongst Christians that the NT only speaks of government in one place – Romans 13:1-6. This has given rise to some angst in regards to applying this passage to Christians living in countries like Zimbabwe or Nazi Germany. How should a Christian apply this passage to their situation? Answer: submit only to the extent that their laws do not go against God’s laws…or so the answer goes.
Last week Bruce Winter helpfully clarified the New Testament’s position on the state. There are actually three views.
1. The State is at peace
This is the view Romans 13:1-6 has in mind. Where Christians are free and able to participate at all levels of government and daily life. Paul’s emphasis in this passage is two fold:
1. Governments like these are put in place to administer justice. They are there to punish those who do evil.
2. To good. Seek the welfare of the city. The phrase ‘Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval.’ in verse 3 refers to seeking ‘benefactions’ – citizens who do good in order to seek honours for their work from the government and be placed in positions of honour over the cities. Paul points to Erastus in Romans 16:23 as an example of a man who sought a benefaction and was honoured to take a place as ‘city treasurer’.
2. The State is suspicious
This happens where Christians are viewed suspiciously, possibly as trouble makers, by local officials and 1 Peter 2:13-17 addresses this issue. Peter exhorts the Christians in the diaspora to counter criticism of the church by doing good. By seeking the welfare of their city and by pouring their energy, time and money into improving the welfare of their city. And in doing so they will silence their critics.
3. The State is the Beast
Finally we have the situation many Christians have found themselves in throughout history. When the State becomes the Beast of Revelation 13:11-18. When God’s instrument for justice in this world seeks to take the throne of God, when the State requires acts of devotion or allegiance, and when your choice is either obedience or death, then Christians may need to flee*.
So there are the three views. The State at peace with Christians, in suspicion of Christians, or the Beast against Christians. Whenever we’re considering how to best respond to our local Governments we need to apply the right text to the most appropriate context.
It is probably safe to say that the two major leading parties in Queensland (Labour and the LNP) fit neatly into the first category. With that in mind there are some other things which we’ll each need to take into consideration before our vote this coming Saturday. For more information visit Queensland Votes to find out more information on the parties and their views on particular issues which are relevant to Christians.
And remember one last thing: you always get the politicians you pray for. So pray more often for our political leaders.
* The life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer offers a startling glimpse into a faithful Christian during the time of the Nazis who chose not to flee but instead to fight. The choice we make when the State becomes the Beast is not always so clear.
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