How does Joshua 1:16 connect to Romans 13:1 on authority? Setting the Scene “ ‘We will do everything you have commanded us, and we will go wherever you send us.’ ” (Joshua 1:16) “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been appointed by God.” (Romans 13:1) Shared Foundations of Authority • Both passages speak of submission to leadership that God Himself has established. • In Joshua, the nation acknowledges Joshua as God’s chosen successor to Moses (cf. Deuteronomy 31:7-8). • In Romans, Paul expands the principle: every legitimate authority in every sphere traces back to God’s appointment. Authority Rooted in God’s Sovereignty • God raises up and removes leaders (Daniel 2:21). • Obedience to God-ordained leadership is, ultimately, obedience to God (1 Samuel 15:22-23). • Resisting rightful authority equals resisting the ordinance of God (Romans 13:2). The People’s Response in Joshua: A Model for Christian Submission • Immediate, comprehensive obedience—“everything…wherever.” • Unity: “We” indicates collective resolve, not selective compliance. • Accountability: they even pledge to discipline anyone who rebels (Joshua 1:18). • This mirrors New-Testament calls to submit “with all respect” (1 Peter 2:13-15) and “be ready for every good work” (Titus 3:1). Continuity of Covenant Principles • Old-Covenant Israel and New-Covenant believers share the same God who values order (1 Corinthians 14:33). • The pattern: God delegates authority → people obey → God’s purposes advance (Hebrews 13:17). • When human commands conflict with God’s, the higher authority of God still rules (Acts 5:29), yet the default posture is submission. Practical Takeaways for Today • View civil, church, and family authorities as instruments God uses for blessing and protection. • Obey promptly and wholeheartedly, unless obedience would mean disobeying God. • Pray for those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-2), recognizing their divine appointment. • Cultivate a spirit like Israel’s in Joshua 1:16—eager, unified, and trustful—so that Christ’s name is honored and His mission moves forward. |
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