We who are citizens of Christ’s kingdom recognize the fact that His kingdom is not of this world (Jn. 18:36). Our citizenship is in heaven (Ph. 3:20). Therefore, we are among those who “desire a better country, that is a heavenly one” (Hb. 11:16).
While we are not of this world, we do live in this world. So, what are our responsibilities to governing authorities? At what point does our responsibility toward God take precedence over our responsibility to the government? These and other questions have long-occupied the minds of God-fearing people.
A proper attitude toward the government is best understood in light of God’s continuing involvement in the governments of the world. Some seem to have the mistaken idea that God merely wound up everything and got it going; but, is presently wiling away the hours, twiddling His thumbs until the end of time. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Jesus said, “My Father is working until now, and I Myself am working” (Jn. 5:17). Concerning His present work, the inspired writer of Hebrews tells us that Jesus “upholds all things by the word of His power” (Hb. 1:3).
God could not do the things He is said to do without being intimately involved in our present state of affairs. We are comforted in the knowledge that “God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God” (Rm. 8:28). We are strengthened in the awareness that God is faithfully keeping us from being “tempted beyond what [we] are able to bear” (1 Cor. 10:13). These are among the things which cannot be understood apart from God’s involvement in the everyday life of His people. In all of life’s uncertainties, it is important to remember that “it is God who is at work in [us], both to will and to work for His good pleasure” (Ph. 2:13).
In next week’s bulletin, we will take a quick look at how God has been involved in kingdoms of the world down through the ages. This will provide a needed foundation for greater understanding of our responsibility toward civil authority.