How does Daniel 4:25 connect with Romans 13:1 on God's authority? Scripture Anchor Verses • Daniel 4:25b – “The Most High rules over the kingdom of men and gives it to whom He wishes.” • Romans 13:1 – “For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist are appointed by God.” Common Thread: God’s Unrivaled Sovereignty • Both passages declare that every human throne, office, or badge ultimately rests in God’s hand. • Daniel highlights God’s power to remove and replace a king; Romans affirms God’s ongoing establishment of governing structures. • Together they insist that no ruler is self-made and no government is self-sustaining; each is a steward under the King of kings (1 Timothy 6:15). Three Layers of Connection 1. Origin of Authority – Daniel shows authority beginning with God’s deliberate grant (“gives it to whom He wishes”). – Romans echoes, stating every existing authority “is appointed by God.” 2. Accountability of Authority – Nebuchadnezzar’s humiliation proves a ruler answers to heaven (Daniel 4:31-37). – Paul implies the same: authorities are “God’s servants” (Romans 13:4) and will face judgment if they rebel (Isaiah 10:12). 3. Response of the Ruled – Daniel’s narrative calls all to “acknowledge” God’s rule; submission begins in the heart. – Romans commands tangible submission—obedience, respect, honor, taxes (Romans 13:7)—because recognizing God’s hand behind leaders shapes conduct toward them. Supporting Witnesses • Psalm 75:6-7 – God “brings one down, He exalts another.” • Proverbs 21:1 – “The king’s heart is a watercourse in the hand of the LORD.” • John 19:11 – Jesus tells Pilate, “You would have no authority over Me if it were not given you from above.” Practical Implications • Confidence: Political upheaval never dethrones God; He remains in charge. • Humility: Any influence we hold—at work, home, church, or civil office—is on loan from Him. • Obedience: We honor laws and leaders unless they command sin (Acts 5:29), trusting God can raise up, restrain, or remove them. • Intercession: Because He appoints rulers, our prayers for them (1 Timothy 2:1-2) cooperate with His purposes. In Daniel 4:25 God proves His supremacy by disciplining a king; in Romans 13:1 He instructs His people to live under that supremacy daily. Same Author, same authority, one seamless message. |
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