Romans 13:1-13:7

How to Relate to the State?

Hello and welcome to Bridging the Gap, with pastor Lloyd Pulley. Here today in the United States we have incredible freedoms that we enjoy. Part of that freedom involves the election process. In a few months we'll be voting for Senators, Congressmen and local officials that we're called to submit to, regardless of party affiliation. But is there ever a time when we are to disobey them?

  1. Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
  2. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
  3. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:
  4. For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.
  5. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.
  6. For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.
  7. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.