How can we honor God by respecting government authorities as instructed in Romans 13:6? Setting the verse in context Paul has just declared, “For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God” (Romans 13:1). Verse 6 flows naturally from that foundation by showing one everyday arena—paying taxes—where submission to government becomes an act of worship. What Romans 13:6 says “That is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who devote themselves to their work.” Core truths embedded in the verse • Civil authorities are “God’s servants,” not self-appointed powers. • Their task is a God-given “work,” so supporting them financially is part of honoring the Lord. • Paying taxes is presented as normal, ongoing (“you pay”) Christian behavior. Why honoring government honors God • God is the One who establishes rulers (Daniel 2:21). Respecting them recognizes His sovereignty. • Rebellion against lawful authority is rebellion against God’s order (Romans 13:2). • Obedience adorns the gospel, showing a life transformed by grace (Titus 3:1-2). • It silences critics who expect believers to be disruptive (1 Peter 2:13-15). Practical ways to honor God by respecting authorities • Pay required taxes promptly and honestly, avoiding deceptive deductions (Matthew 22:21). • Speak of leaders with civility, even when disagreeing (Ecclesiastes 10:20). • Pray regularly “for kings and all in authority” so society may enjoy peace (1 Timothy 2:1-2). • Obey laws—from speed limits to building codes—when they do not force sin (Romans 13:7). • Participate responsibly in civic duties such as voting, seeing it as stewardship. • Encourage others to respect public servants, modeling gratitude rather than cynicism. When civil obedience and divine obedience collide • Scripture never calls believers to sin. If a command directly contradicts God’s Word, “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29). • Such resistance is carried out respectfully, accepting consequences, much like Daniel who continued praying yet honored the king in every other way (Daniel 6:10-21). Examples that inspire • Joseph served pagan Pharaoh with integrity, recognizing God’s hand behind his position (Genesis 45:8). • Nehemiah worked under Artaxerxes, using royal resources to rebuild Jerusalem while consistently submitting to imperial authority (Nehemiah 2:1-8). Living it out today • View every tax return, traffic rule, and local ordinance as an occasion to worship the Lord who ordained government. • Let gratitude replace grumbling; thank God for infrastructure, protection, and order that taxes help provide. • Stand out in a culture of complaint by responding with honor, prayer, and upright conduct, proving that Jesus is Lord of every area—including citizenship. |
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