In a world where disobedience to laws seems commonplace, we who are called by God must recognize the importance of obedience to His laws, which are designed to produce happiness and build godly character. God places us under the authority of human governments—national, state, local, workplace, and home—to train us in the habit of obedience. Despite satan's influence creating an environment of rebellion, where even leaders may act above the law, God establishes government for order and for man's benefit, teaching us a vital lesson to obey the authorities over us, except when they conflict with His laws. Jesus Christ Himself demonstrated this principle by acknowledging the authority of a corrupt Caesar, stating that what was due in taxes should be paid. He customarily paid all tributes, showing that even under unworthy rulers, submission to authority is necessary unless it violates God's commands. Similarly, Paul emphasized that all authority is ordained by God, and we must not resist what He has appointed. Government is instituted by His will, and we are to be subject to it as a matter of conscience and duty to Him, recognizing that violation of laws exposes us to punishment. God expects us to come under the authority over us, to pay taxes, obey laws, and show respect to the office, even if not to the individual. Examples like Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego illustrate that while giving due respect to civil authority, we must stand firm for God's laws when they conflict with man's demands, accepting any punishment that may follow. Proper obedience to government produces harmony, unity, safety, order, peace, and the character of obedience that God desires in us. Even in everyday roles, from the home to public spaces, we are placed under authority to learn submission and governance. God may place His people under a heavy hand to teach us not to rebel, ensuring we learn to be governed. While satan's rebellious attitude permeates the world, we must remain conscious of it, respect true authority, and develop the character God values by striving to obey the laws of the land.

Authority, when properly exercised, serves a good purpose by fostering growth and encouraging life. It functions to assist and support, as seen when parents author the growth of their children, or when a music teacher encourages a talented student to compose. True authority produces good fruit, evident in positive relationships that sustain development. In contrast, authoritarianism is a perversion of authority, characterized by oppression and control rather than individual freedom. It imposes conformity, restricts personal development, and hinders growth through repressive tactics. Authoritarianism is rooted in power, not love, and thrives on force, manipulation, and domination. It serves the few who dominate the many, using bureaucratic structures and excessive laws to control ordinary lives, often as a means to further personal agendas. The essence of rebellion against authority lies in uncontrolled pride, a destructive force that distorts truth and reality. This pride, first exemplified by satan, deceives individuals into self-exaltation, turning minds away from God. Pride manifests as a rejection of authority, often seen in opposition to leaders and in the belief that one is the final authority, capable of operating independently of God. Such rebellion is a direct affront to His supreme authority. Proper human authority depends on mentally healthy individuals maintaining healthy relationships in personal, work, and public spheres. Authority is abused when it ceases to help and serve others, becoming a tool for personal gain. The contrast between authority and authoritarianism is stark; where authority vanishes due to distortion or rejection, it is replaced by authoritarianism, anarchy, or apathy. God's authority is supreme as Creator and Sustainer, providing a perfect standard through His written word. This standard defines right and wrong, imparts wisdom, and serves as the ultimate measure for judgment. It cannot be added to or taken away from, standing as the authoritative guide for life.

The authority of human government is not intrinsic but is delegated from God, as Jesus Christ affirmed during His trial before Pilate. All power originates from God and is legitimized by Him, meaning that human government exercises a rule that must be recognized and respected. Jesus Himself respected this authority by courteously answering Pilate's questions and acknowledging Pilate's right to pronounce judgment, even when the judgment was wrong. This authority, however, is limited and bound by the moral nature of God from whom it comes, involving responsibility and the potential for sin if not exercised properly. Scripture teaches that Christians are to be subject to higher authorities, honoring and respecting those in power, and striving to be model citizens by obeying civil laws and paying taxes honestly, even under corrupt rulers. Yet, there are limits to this obedience. When the commands of the state conflict with the direct commands of God, obedience to God takes precedence. Specifically, the state has no right to forbid the proclamation of the gospel or to command immoral acts. In such cases, resistance is necessary, even if it means facing consequences like imprisonment or death. The sovereignty of God over human affairs is paramount, and His authority overrides that of the state. While the state is often right and invested with God's authority, requiring obedience under normal circumstances, Christians must discern when a demand by the state is wrong and requires opposition. This discernment comes from a deep understanding of Scripture and a willingness to surrender everything to obey God, trusting in His ultimate control over all situations. Without God in the picture, there is no sure check on human authority, leading to potential abuse and tyranny. True power and strength belong to God alone, whose omnipotent sovereignty is the foundation of all legitimate authority.