How does 2 Samuel 1:7 connect with Romans 13:1 on authority? Setting the Scene: Two Moments, One Theme • Mount Gilboa, 1000 B.C.—Saul is mortally wounded. An Amalekite approaches. • First–century Rome—believers wrestle with obedience under pagan rule. Both situations raise the same issue: How do we respond to authority that God Himself has instituted? The Texts • 2 Samuel 1:7: “When he turned and saw me, he called out, ‘Who are you?’ So I answered, ‘Here I am.’ ” • Romans 13:1: “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God.” Tracing the Thread of Authority 1. God establishes leaders – Saul was “the LORD’s anointed” (1 Samuel 24:6; 26:9). – Paul states that every authority is “appointed by God.” 2. Recognition demands response – The Amalekite heard Saul’s call (“Who are you?”) yet failed to honor the king’s divine commission; he took Saul’s life and brought swift judgment on himself (2 Samuel 1:14–16). – Paul teaches believers to respond in submission, not rebellion, because to resist authority is to oppose God’s ordinance (Romans 13:2). 3. Personal gain vs. reverent obedience – The Amalekite expected a reward; instead he met death. – Paul warns that obedience is “not only to avoid punishment but also as a matter of conscience” (Romans 13:5). 4. David as the model – Though already anointed to succeed Saul, David refused to harm him (1 Samuel 24:10), illustrating Romans 13 long before it was written. Lessons for Us Today • Honor civil and spiritual leaders even when they falter; their office is God-ordained. • Reject the temptation to exploit authority for personal advantage; God sees the heart. • Submit to governing laws unless they directly contradict God’s commands (Acts 5:29), holding conscience captive to Scripture. • Trust God’s timing: David waited; believers wait, knowing God raises up and removes rulers (Daniel 2:21). Supporting Scriptures • 1 Peter 2:13–17—“Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution.” • Proverbs 8:15–16—“By Me kings reign and rulers enact just laws.” • Titus 3:1—“Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient.” |
    |