“Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right.” 

Every two years is a national election year where we get the opportunity to elect congressmen and voice our opinion on many other local candidates and issues. Every four years we have a vote for a president. Our newscasts, magazines, and newspapers are always full of information and debates about various candidates and issues. There will be more disrespect shown to each candidate than the average person can stand. The fact that people like or don't like the people running can be the decision of the voters.

Peter tells us in this passage “Submit yourselves to every human institution or authority.” This is an instruction for all disciples of Jesus.  In our country it takes discipline to decide to be under submission or authority and be willing to do what is asked and required as citizens.

The reason Paul tells them to submit themselves to human authorities is for the Lord’s sake. It is not in the best interests of Christians to be people at political odds with government officials. We are called to keep the law unless it is in conflict with God’s laws.

 We live in a land that looks upon individual rights very highly. We have the recourse in our society to take people to court when we think things are not fair. When submission is required of us, it is easy to resent it. Blood rushes to our face and we easily think "no one is going to make me do anything". Then the Lord approaches us and says, "submit for my sake; do it because I wish it; take the injustice. I have a better plan."

Should I submit to ill-equipped leaders? What if I know more than the person in authority? Then the Master reminds us, "Submit for my sake; do it because I wish it; Yes, stand against injustice, our government allows it, but if you cannot alter or amend it, then be an example for others and submit.  We can agree to be submissive because we have agreed to let God rule in our lives. Tell your griefs to Jesus and wait for Him to set you free.

Is there ever a time or place for rebellion?  Let Peter's life and example help us in that area?  Acts 4, five times Peter was instructed not to preach. Now there may be some who will tell you to do whatever any authority tells you to do. Peter didn't. Paul didn't. Daniel didn't. They didn't take the attitude that no one is going to tell me what to do, but they did take the attitude that, sometimes I will have to pay the consequences for disobedience.  That is when the law runs in conflict with the commands of Jesus Christ.

Christians, be law abiding citizens in every way we possibly can. We must teach life is of God. It is not just a political opinion. We are allowed to protest, campaign, send out flyers and voice our convictions.  We can choose to submit to the laws that allow me to work to get those laws changed, to vote for pro-life candidates, and get information in public support of life and adoptions.  We can speak out and must.

Application:    We can agree to be submissive because we have agreed to let God rule in our lives. Tell your griefs to Jesus and wait for Him to set you freePrayer:   

Prayer:  Lord, You have called me to be a light to this dark world.   I rest in Your power as I pray for this dark world.   Lord, build Your Kingdom here!