How does Romans 13:1-2 relate to Jeremiah 27:12's message on authority? Setting the Passages Side by Side • “Every person must be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. • Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” • “Submit to the yoke of the king of Babylon, serve him and his people, and live!” God as the Source of Authority • Both passages assume one core truth: all earthly power is delegated by God. • Jeremiah speaks to Zedekiah in the moment—Nebuchadnezzar’s rule is God-given (cf. Jeremiah 27:5-6). • Paul states the principle timelessly—“there is no authority except that which is from God.” • Daniel 2:21 reinforces the theme: God “removes kings and establishes them.” Our Call to Submission • Jeremiah: Judah must “submit to the yoke” of Babylon to survive the exile. • Romans: Believers “must be subject” to governing authorities in general. • Titus 3:1 and 1 Peter 2:13-17 echo the same call—obedience unless obedience directly contradicts God’s commands (Acts 5:29). Consequences of Resistance • Jeremiah warns that rejecting Babylon means sword, famine, and pestilence (Jeremiah 27:8). • Paul warns that resisting authority “brings judgment” (Romans 13:2). • Both texts link rebellion against government—when that government is God-appointed—to rebellion against God Himself. Consistency Across Covenants Old Covenant: Judah’s submission preserved the remnant and God’s redemptive plan. New Covenant: Church submission adorns the gospel, displaying trust in God’s sovereignty. Same underlying principle, different historical settings—one Author. Living It Out Today • Recognize that every leader stands under God’s ultimate rule (Proverbs 21:1). • Pray “for kings and all who are in authority” (1 Timothy 2:1-2). • Obey laws and pay taxes (Romans 13:6-7) unless obedience would force sin. • Trust God’s control when leadership seems flawed—He uses even pagan rulers for His purposes, just as He did with Nebuchadnezzar (Jeremiah 27:6; Romans 8:28). |
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