THERE IS A GROWING ANTI-GOVERNMENT STREAK alive and well in the American Church today. It stems from a lack of trust in institutions in general, but it is especially directed toward the political realm. Much of the distaste is driven by a sense that our representatives are out of touch with the actual needs and interests of most Americans. This mistrust is further compounded by the growing polarization and tribalism between Progressives and Conservatives. Though some of our frustration with our elected officials and government in general may be warranted, our response to this dissatisfaction has often led us toward attitudes and behaviors that are not in line with a biblical ethic. We have too often become cynical and divisive.
Peter’s first example regarding how to live faithfully as aliens and sojourners is concerned with our relationship to the state. He told the churches in Asia Minor to “be subject for the Lord’s sake to every institution” including those in positions of governmental authority – the emperor and governors (1 Peter 2:13-14). In Peter’s day there was no such thing as a Christian congressman or a Protestant president. All the leaders in power throughout the Empire worshipped the Roman gods and many, if not most, were oppressive toward groups and individuals that were not in line with Roman way, including the followers of Jesus. Those who lived throughout the Empire were not protected by anything like a Bill of Rights. One’s rights were mostly determined by the whims of those in power. And yet, Christians were to “be subject” to their state leaders.
The apostle’s call for Christians to submit to political leaders was guided by two truths: 1) doing so will honor the Lord, and 2) doing so will silence their opponents.
First, when Christians place themselves under the authority of the government, they ultimately place themselves under the authority of Christ. The reason for this was that every authority has been instituted by God (Romans 13:1-2). However, since their submission is first to the Lord, Christians would not be encouraged, let alone required, to obey commands that clearly transgress God’s expressed will. Second, it is God’s will for his people to be subject to the governing authorities “that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people” (1 Peter 2:13-15). By not being labeled as anti-government by the broader populace, Christians help to quiet the slander that they are not good citizens. That slander was leading to deeper expressions of persecution on the churches in Asia Minor.
Thankfully, we do not live in Asia Minor in the first century. We live in a land that has as many protections for its citizens as any in history. The first section of the 1st Amendment to our Constitution states, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” The framers of our Constitution had lived under a regime that demanded allegiance to its brand of Christianity and they wanted to ensure that Americans were free to worship as they saw fit. Though we must be vigilant to see that this right is continually secured, we ought also to recognize the blessed position we find ourselves in as Christians in America.
To be faithful to Peter’s command found in these verses, I believe Christians should take the following six steps:
- Be thankful for the freedoms we do have.
- Pray for our governmental leaders.
- Ask the Lord to bring change to our society where needed.
- Vote and be involved in government where we can.
- Avoid being influenced by groups that are anti-government (either Left or Right).
- Cultivate hope by setting our eyes more on Christ’s kingdom than on the kingdoms of this world.
PRAYER
Father, it’s often difficult for us to trust people, especially people in power. However, we know we can trust you and your Word that tells us to yield to our governing authorities. May we honor you as we submit to governors and representatives and presidents – some who know you and many others who do not. Let our lives of service and submission be a sign that you are our King. Amen.
PONDER
- What do you learn about God from this passage?
- “Foolish people” in verse 15 seem to be on all sides of this issue. How so?
- Is your present posture toward our government in line with Peter’s admonition?