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Authority and Government
Sermon by John O. ReidIn this world, rebellion against authority and the law of the land is rampant, with many feeling that laws are made to be broken. Yet, for those called by God, obedience to His laws is paramount, as they are designed to produce happiness and build godly character. God places us under human governments—national, state, local, workplace, and home—to train us in the habit of obedience. Despite satan's influence creating an environment of disobedience, where even leaders set examples of lawlessness, God establishes government for order and for our benefit. We must learn to obey the authorities set over us, except when they conflict with God's laws. Jesus Christ Himself demonstrated this principle by paying taxes and submitting to authority, even under a corrupt ruler, showing that what is due to the government should be rendered. Similarly, the apostles lived under Roman rule without resisting leadership or breaking laws, giving Caesar his due. Paul reinforces this, stating that all authority is ordained by God, and we must not resist what He has appointed. Violation of laws exposes one to punishment, and obedience is a matter of conscience and duty to God. We are to be subject to civil rulers, pay taxes, obey laws, and show respect to the office, if not the individual, as a reflection of right living. Rebellion and stubbornness are contrary to God's will, akin to divination and idolatry, and can destroy those called by Him. When governmental laws conflict with God's laws, examples like Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego show us to stand firm for God's laws, giving due respect to authority in all other matters, even at the risk of punishment. God has set up government to bring order and to teach us the lessons of submission and governance, whether in civil roles or everyday positions of authority. Proper obedience produces harmony, unity, safety, order, peace, and the character of obedience that God desires. Despite satan's pervasive attitude of rebellion in the world, we must remain conscious of it and strive to respect true authority. We are called to develop the attitude and character that God values, doing our best to obey the laws of the land.
Authority: Why So Many Resent It
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsPride, the father of all sins, is the source of self-exaltation, self-justification and the despising of authority. It cloaks rebellion in a deceptive appeal.
Shifting Toward Authoritarianism
'WorldWatch' by Joseph B. BaityYoung US and UK citizens favor authoritarianism due to their over-protected childhoods. Does this desire for a strongman presage the coming of the Beast?
Using God's Given Authority
Sermon by Mark SchindlerGod has gifted all His called-out ones, expecting them to use those gifts with the pillars of godly wisdom for the edification of the Body of Christ.
Submission (Part One)
CGG Weekly by John ReissRegardless of which political party is in power, God counsels His children in Romans 13:1-7 on how to have peace in an anything-but-peaceful world.
Should We Obey the Laws of Our Government?
Article by John O. ReidShould we obey the governments of man over us? Should we obey it if we consider it an 'illegal' government?
Honor the King
Commentary by Richard T. RitenbaughWe find it difficult to maintain a spirit of calmness and refrain from taking sides, let alone to show honor to those God has placed over us.
Submission (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by John ReissThose trained in the home to dishonor parents will resist authority on every front, whether civic authorities, supervisors on the job, or teachers in school.
How Does God View Human Government?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAs obnoxious as tyrannical power may seem, we have the obligation to behave lawfully. Even the vilest of leaders has been allowed by God to rule.
Men and Women, Hats and Hair
'Ready Answer' by Earl L. HennShould women wear hats to church? What is the correct hair length for men and women? Paul teaches on these subjects in I Corinthians 11.
Government (Part Five)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughOnly those who are governable will be allowed to govern with God. No government will work without each individual submitting in his area of responsibility.
Don't Meddle and Always Be Ready to Answer
Sermon by Mark SchindlerSatan seeks to distract God's people by enticing them to meddle in governmental matters, thereby endangering their relationship with God.
The Church Family - Convinced and Persuaded
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsChurch government should reflect God's government, typified as a family, with Christ as the loving husband and the church as the submissive wife.
Elisha, the Young Men, and the She-Bears
'Ready Answer' by Ted E. BowlingSome see Elisha's encounter with the youths of Bethel and the she-bears in II Kings 2:23-24 as cruel and vengeful. The narrative tells a different story.
Government (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughFor us to take on the glory of God, we must have the same kind of access to the Father as Christ did, taking on the responsibility of behaving like His sons.
We Give Our Heads and Hearts
Sermon by Mark SchindlerGod's people (as ambassadors and pilgrims) must pledge their hearts, minds, and allegiance to the coming Kingdom of God, which will last forever.
Everybody's Protesting
Commentary by Richard T. RitenbaughAmericans have a high regard for free speech. God, on the other hand, shows little tolerance for incessant grumbling, complaining, murmuring, or rebellion.
The Christian Walk (Part Four): Mutual Submission in Godly Fear
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAmericans have a hard time submitting to authority and like to consider themselves as sovereigns, having the last say over anything including church doctrine.