Government

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Throughout history, people in positions of authority – whether national leaders or local officials – have often shaped the direction of nations. The Bible shows us that, while leaders hold power, God remains in ultimate control. There are moments when the course of a nation can be changed, not simply by the actions of rulers, but through the prayers and faithful trust of ordinary people. For example, Joseph, Nehemiah, and Esther all saw their humble prayers lead to significant changes in government decisions (Gen 41:16ff; Neh 2:5ff; Est 4:8ff). Their stories remind us that prayer is often more powerful than any human position or title, for the "prayers of a righteous person are powerful and effective" (Jas 5:16).

The Bible teaches that “God sets kings up and deposes them” – in other words, leaders rise and fall not just by chance or human effort, but because God allows and directs it as part of His larger plan (Prov 21:1; Dan 2:21, 4:25,32). This means that, even when we see leaders making decisions or exercising authority, their power ultimately comes from God and is permitted by Him. God’s ability to change a ruler’s heart is evident in the life of Pharaoh, with divine pressure being applied until he conceded (eg Ex 10:1,2, 12:31,32).

God’s sovereignty – the idea that He is in control over all things – is clearly shown in Scripture. He is described as the only true ruler, the “King of kings and Lord of lords” (1 Tim 6:15). God has given Jesus all authority in heaven and on earth, fulfilling the promises spoken by the prophets: “The government will be on His shoulders… His ever-expanding government will never end” (Isa 9:6,7; Mt 28:18; Jn 13:3; 1Cor 15:27; Eph 1:22). One day, everyone will recognise Jesus’ authority, as every person bows and acknowledges Him as Lord (Lk 1:32,33; Phil 2:8-11; Col 2:10; Heb 2:8; Rev 11:15).

to resist God’s order (Rom 13:1-6). However, this doesn’t mean blind obedience – if a law directly contradicts God’s commands, Christians are called to follow God first, respectfully refusing to comply, choosing to “obey God rather than human beings,” while accepting the consequences of their actions of disobeying human laws (Ex 1:17; Act 5:29).

Because God is ultimately in control of who governs, Christians are encouraged to engage in civic life thoughtfully and prayerfully. This means that, when we can vote, we should approach it as a serious responsibility. Our participation is one way we can seek to ensure that wise and just people are chosen to lead.

Whatever the results of elections or government decisions, the Bible calls us to honour those in authority as part of our commitment to God. Honouring government leaders today can take many forms – for example, by praying for them regularly, respecting laws, engaging in community service, and contributing positively to society. Christians can also demonstrate respect through civil and thoughtful public discussions, supporting local initiatives, or volunteering for causes that serve the common good. By living out our faith in these practical ways, we reflect Christ’s love and help build a more just and caring community.

The New Testament contains instructions regarding responses to authority and government positions, including praying for leaders even when facing persecution (Mt 5:44; 1 Tim 2:1,2); complying with demands and going beyond what is required (Mt 5:41); showing respect and obedience to authorities unless instructed to act against personal conscience or moral standards (Act 4:19; 1 Tim 6:1; Tit 3:1; Heb 13:17); and fulfilling obligations to governing systems while maintaining personal integrity and values (Mt 22:21; Rom 13:7).

These texts state that individuals should obey the laws of their country, and that respecting governing authorities is associated with a broader sense of order. Submitting to government is advised to avoid punishment and to maintain a clear conscience (Rom 13:5; 1 Tim 1:19; Heb 13:18; 1 Pet 2:13-17, 3:16). Enduring injustice, according to these passages, can be interpreted as an example of exhibiting grace (1 Pet 2:19-21).

flavour of Christ into society and point people to Him. By engaging thoughtfully and prayerfully in matters of government and justice, believers can shape their nations in ways that honour God and promote the well-being of all people. Through steadfast faith, ethical conduct, and a commitment to loving service, Christians can help build societies marked by justice, mercy, and hope.

While governments are responsible for establishing laws to maintain order and promote the common good, the existence of legislation does not guarantee that all laws are just or truly beneficial for society. There are instances when governments overstep their constitutional boundaries, leading to abuses of power and the erosion of justice. In such situations, the typical human response often manifests as protests or acts of civil disobedience. Although these actions may begin peacefully, history demonstrates that they can sometimes escalate into aggression and conflict.

For Christians, however, the response to injustice is grounded in the teachings of Jesus and the broader witness of Scripture. Rather than resorting to violence or hostility, believers are called to address injustice through prayer, perseverance, and, when necessary, a willingness to endure unfair treatment for the sake of conscience (Eph 6:5-9; Col 3:22-25). This does not mean passive acceptance of evil, but rather a commitment to respond in a manner that reflects Christ’s love and integrity.

A powerful historical example of this approach is found in the life and work of Dr Martin Luther King Jr. In the face of unjust segregation laws in the United States, Dr King led nonviolent protests inspired by his Christian faith and the teachings of Jesus on loving one’s enemies. His commitment to peaceful resistance and prayerful action not only challenged oppressive systems but also inspired lasting social change, drawing attention to the transformative power of faith in public life.

The Israelites experience

When the Israelites came out of Egypt, Moses acted as God’s representative, appointing officials to help lead and govern the people who were God’s treasured possession – a holy nation and kingdom of priests (Ex 18:14-26, 19:5,6).  Thus began a theocracy – a nation under God’s rulership that was designed to be unique, separate from the rest of the world, and belonging to God. The focal point of the theocracy was the tabernacle, then later the temple, which symbolised the dwelling place of God among His people.  As Jerusalem was where the temple was situated, it became known as the Holy City.

For a time, there were judges or rulers, but the people wanted a visible human king to rule them like other nations (1 Sam 8:4-7).  Saul, the first king, did not serve God well and was rejected.  He was replaced by King David, a man after God’s own heart (Act 13:22).  Then followed a succession of kings, some good, but many evil ones, who led the people away from God, resulting in their exile in Babylon around 587 BC.

Until 1948, when Israel regained sovereignty of its homeland, Israel was under various controlling nations. During the time of Christ, Palestine was still under Roman control, although the Jews were allowed their own King.  A succession of men of Jewish descent bearing the title Herod were in control but answerable to a Roman governor (Pilate). At His birth, Jesus was considered a threat by the ruling Herod (Mt 2:2,13-16). Various Jewish groups formed (eg. Zealots and Sadducees), all seeking in their own way to restore the kingdom of Israel and to be free of Roman repression.  In fact, all Jews were looking for their Messiah to come and deliver them from the harsh Roman bondage.  Even the disciples had this opinion (Act 1:6).

Jesus came, not primarily to deliver people from physical bondage and control, but to set mankind free in the spiritual realm, which is of greater and long-term significance (Jn 8:32,36). Am I allowing the Spirit within to liberate me from the corruption of the old ruling nature?

 See also: abuse, authority, civil disobedience, consequences, leaders/leadership, mandates, New World Order, obedience, politics, protests, rebellion, responsible/responsibilities, rights, sovereignty of God, submission, vote.