What responsibilities do Christians have toward civil government? In answering this question, two extremes must be avoided. The first extreme is that, since Christ’s kingdom is not of this world, Christians are free to disregard the laws of the land. The second extreme is that Christians must obey the laws of the land even if they contradict the laws of God. Between the two extremes is the biblical view of our responsibility toward civil government.
Christians are obligated to obey governing authorities (Rm. 13:1). Paul goes on to explain that governing authorities exist and are established by God. Resisting authority amounts to resisting God Himself. Remember, the over-arching purpose of government is for the punishment of evil-doers and the praise of those who do what is right (Rm. 13:1-7). When a particular government no longer carries this God-given purpose, God will remove it in His own time.
These principles are reinforced in Paul’s letter to Titus, where he says, “Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed, to malign no one, to be uncontentious, gentle, showing every consideration for all men (3:1-2). Obedience is not motivated by fear of the government, but by respect for God. If we disagree with the law, we not free to disobey it unless the law violates God’s word (Acts 4:19-20; 5:29). As we have already said, our responsibility to obey governing authorities extends even to governments which may be corrupt or evil. Early Christians lived in the midst of the decadent, corrupt Roman Empire. But, Jesus did not lead an insurrection against Rome. Why not? Because His purpose was to preach the gospel and save souls. Christianity did change the world; but it did so one soul at a time.
Christians are obligated to obey governing authorities so long as such obedience does not violate the principles taught in the New Testament.