Obey the Governing Authorities

Summary:All people must submit to governing authorities because their authority comes from God. Resisting authority is resisting God’s order and brings judgment. Rulers are meant to be a cause of fear for wrongdoers, not for those who do good. They are God’s servants to administer justice, including punishment when needed. Therefore, it is necessary to be subject not only because of possible punishment but also for conscience’ sake. This is why taxes are paid, since authorities are God’s servants devoted to governance. Give to everyone what is due—taxes, customs, respect, and honor. Teaching: “Every person is to be subject to the governing authorities.” If someone does not submit to such governing authorities, they are not submitting to God. Just as those who disobey God face judgment, so those who disobey the authorities will also face judgment. However, if the authorities openly oppose and deny the church and hinder the gospel, then there is a justification for disobedience. “Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for the sake of conscience.” Logically, it is right to submit. But if, like the Beast in Revelation 13, an authority actively hinders faith in God and stands against Him, then we must also stand against that authority. Apart from such a case, however, there is no reason not to submit.In living within this society - whether under national authorities, corporate authorities, or family authorities - we must submit to those to whom submission is due, fear those to whom fear is due, and respect those to whom respect is due. There are surely people whom God has established in positions of authority, and whoever that may be, we should bow before them as we bow before God. Excerpt from the sermon by Pastor Lee, Aug 19, 2025 Roman 13:1-7(D-10)