How does Matthew 8:9 connect with Romans 13:1 on respecting authority? Setting the Scene Scripture consistently links faith with orderly submission. From Genesis onward, God reveals Himself as the ultimate Authority who delegates real, earthly authority for the good of His people. Authority on Display in Matthew 8:9 “For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” (Matthew 8:9) • The centurion grasps how authority flows downward. He obeys those above him and expects obedience from those under him. • He recognizes the same structure in the spiritual realm: Jesus only has to speak and sickness must obey. • Jesus marvels at this understanding (v. 10), highlighting that true faith assumes Christ’s absolute right to command. Authority Established in 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.” (Romans 13:1) • Paul roots civil authority in God’s sovereign appointment. To resist lawful rule is to resist the Lord who set it in place. • Submission here is comprehensive: “everyone” includes every believer, regardless of personal rank or circumstance. • The verse does not excuse sinful commands (Acts 5:29 shows the limit), yet it affirms that normal obedience reflects trust in God’s providence. The Common Thread • Both passages spotlight a chain-of-command that starts with God. • The centurion models the mindset Paul prescribes: acknowledging delegated authority without resentment. • Faith and submission rise together; the more we trust God’s order, the more readily we respect those He appoints. Why This Matters for Daily Life • Obey civil laws—pay taxes, follow traffic rules, honor local ordinances. • Respect workplace leaders, church elders (Hebrews 13:17), and parents (Ephesians 6:1-3). • Reject the culture’s casual disrespect for leaders; speak with restraint (Titus 3:1-2). • Pray for those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-2), confident that God can steer their hearts (Proverbs 21:1). Further Scriptures to Strengthen the Picture • 1 Peter 2:13-14—submit “for the Lord’s sake” to every human institution. • Proverbs 21:1—the king’s heart is in the Lord’s hand. • Hebrews 13:17—obey your leaders and submit to them. • Titus 3:1—be subject to rulers and authorities, ready for every good work. |
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