Title: Subject to Lawful Authority.

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Key Verse
"Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God."  
— Romans 13:1 (NKJV)

Reflection: In a world that often celebrates rebellion and self-rule, the call to submit to lawful authority can feel countercultural. Yet, Scripture consistently teaches that honoring authority is not just a civic duty—it’s a spiritual one. God is a God of order, and He establishes structures of leadership for the flourishing of society and the discipline of His people.

Biblical Foundations
1. Jesus and Caesar
When asked whether it was lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, Jesus responded:
> “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”  
— Matthew 22:21
Jesus acknowledged the legitimacy of earthly authority—even under a pagan empire. His example teaches us that obedience to civil law does not compromise our loyalty to God, as long as it doesn't contradict His commands.
2. Paul’s Teaching on Government
Paul, writing to believers in Rome—under the rule of Emperor Nero—urged submission:
> “Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves.”  
— Romans 13:2
This was not blind allegiance, but a recognition that God uses even imperfect rulers to accomplish His purposes.
3. Daniel in Babylon
Daniel served under multiple kings in a foreign land, yet he remained respectful and obedient to the laws—except when they directly opposed God’s commands. When forbidden to pray, he chose obedience to God, but still with humility and grace (Daniel 6). His life is a model of how to balance civil obedience with spiritual integrity.
4. Peter’s Counsel
Peter, who once defied the Sanhedrin by saying, “We ought to obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29), also wrote:
> “Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake, whether to the king as supreme, or to governors…”  
— 1 Peter 2:13–14

Submission to authority is not about the worthiness of the ruler, but about honoring God.

Application
- Pray for your leaders (1 Timothy 2:1–2). Whether you agree with them or not, they need wisdom and guidance.
- Obey the law—from traffic rules to tax codes—as an act of worship.
- Stand firm in faith when laws contradict God’s Word, but do so with respect and courage.
- Teach others—especially children and young believers—the value of honoring authority.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for being the ultimate authority in our lives. Help us to honor those You’ve placed in leadership over us, even when it’s difficult. Give us discernment to know when to obey and when to stand for righteousness. May our submission reflect our trust in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Share your thoughts here. ©Dr Joel Olanrewaju, gbemide09@gmail.com. Please share this with your contacts.

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