Romans
13:1-10— In this
coming week’s epistle lesson St. Paul teaches civil
governments have been given their authority by God. Thus, the Christian submits
himself to that rule which God has established, and exhorts others to do the
same.
St. Paul also tells us how we are to live with our fellow
man: letting love for the neighbor guide all our actions and dealings. This
love is not of ourselves, but flows from Christ, who first loved us.
Paul lists three reasons why the
Roman Christians are to submit to the authorities. These arguments which Paul
points out apply to us today.
First, no
authority exists except from God, and all authorities that exist have been
instituted by God (13:1b).
Second, rulers
are not a terror to good conduct but rather to bad behavior. (13:3a). The state
has the right and the duty to punish those who break the law.
Third, the authority/ruler is God’s servant in three ways:
1. For the citizen’s good. Civic
leaders are civil servants. They rule on our behalf for our benefit. So that we
can be free to our primary task as Christians to gossip the gospel.
2. To execute wrath on the wrongdoer.
If there are no reprisals there will be lawlessness which is never good.
3. By
being busy with “this very thing,”
that is, collecting taxes. (13:4a, 4c, 6b). Yes, it cost money to pave the
roads, provide infrastructure, and a better way of life.
In less than two months we will hold a national
election. Paul’s teachings remind us
that while we remain citizens of heaven we still operate on this earth in the
civilian world. As we live in society we act as model citizens.
We live in a divided country and there will be strong debate
over the direction of our country in these months leading to our next election.
We can have strong opinions and points of view.
Paul’s directive gives us the framework from which we are to proceed.
For our Country: Almighty
God, You have given us this good land as our heritage. Grant that we remember
Your generosity and constantly do Your will. Bless our land with honest
industry, truthful education, and an honorable way of life. Save us from
violence, discord, and confusion, from pride and arrogance, and from every evil
course of action. Make us who came from many nations with many different
languages a united people. Defend our liberties, and give those whom we have
entrusted with the authority of government the spirit of wisdom that there may
be justice and peace in our land. When times are prosperous, let our hearts be
thankful; and in troubled times do not let our trust in You fail; through Jesus
Christ, our Lord.
For Responsible Citizenship: Lord keep this nation under Your care. Bless the leaders of our land that we may be a people at peace among ourselves and a blessing to the other nations of the earth. Help us provide trustworthy leaders, contribute to wise decisions for the general welfare, and thus serve You faithfully in our generation to the honor of Your holy name.
Image
of the American flag copyright © Google images
Prayers from Lutheran Service Book © 20006
Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis
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