The Biblical Perspective on Government and Disobedience

The Bible does not merely provide guidance on personal conduct and spiritual matters, but also includes insights into the role of government and the responsibilities of its citizens. Many have wondered whether the Bible tells us to respect the government and the rules of the land, especially during times of conflict with God's will. This article delves into the biblical teachings on government and disobedience, exploring the responsibilities of citizens in a secular society.

Respecting Government: Divine Permission and Expectations

The Bible conveys that all governments are meant to be governed by God for the duration of their existence, even if they are perceived as bad or corrupt. It highlights the necessity of governance to prevent society from descending into anarchy, a state in which order and law break down (Romans 13:1-4; 1 Peter 2:13-14). According to these verses, God expects His people to respect the authority of governmental leaders as much as possible.

Exceptions to Obedience

There is one notable exception to this rule: the Bible permits disobedience to governmental authorities if they command actions that directly contradict God's will (Acts 5:28-29). This interpretation underscores the importance of distinguishing between civil law and divine law in the Christian framework.

The Misinterpretation of Biblical Commands

Sometimes, people mistakenly believe that the Bible instructs them to respect the current government and the laws of their land without question. However, this view is a misinterpretation. The Bible speaks of respecting government as an institution, not as a way to legitimize all actions of its leaders (Romans 13:1-2).

The Bible indeed acknowledges that God establishes governmental authorities, but it does not claim that the individuals who fill these positions are placed there by God through divine will or selection. Rather, people choose their representatives and governments, and the rules of the land are specific to each state or region (Exodus 1:8).

No Excuse for Disasters

The idea that respecting the government and its laws would prevent divine interventions or calamities is also flawed. Just because a nation respects its governmental and legal systems does not shield it from the consequences of its actions or divine judgments. For example, the people of Egypt, even if they respected their government, did not prevent God from sending plagues and calamities upon their land (Exodus 7:1-12).

The Controversial Pandemic and Leadership

During crises such as the recent pandemic, questions arise about leadership and divine authority. The Bible compels us to reflect on the nature of power and governance in both secular and spiritual contexts. The recent economic downturn, job losses, medical crises, and leadership failures have led many to question who truly has control over these matters.

Was the pandemic and its aftermath the result of a narcissistic president acting in his own interests, or was it a test of divine authority and providence? These questions prompt us to consider the balance between human leadership and the sovereignty of God (Romans 9:20-24).

The Eternal Nature of God's Authority

No matter the current leaders or government structures, the authority of God remains permanent. As God stated through the Prophet Jeremiah: 'I am the Lord, that maketh all things; that stretcheth forth the heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad the earth by myself' (Jeremiah 10:10).

While the position of the President of the USA may change with each election, the inherent authority of the office remains established by God, and will continue to do so regardless of the individuals occupying it.