Authority in the Community

The Bible tells all people, whether believers or unbelievers, to respect civil authority, which works for the good of the community. The Christian apostle Paul wrote to his fellow believers in Rome about this, and it is helpful to consider what he says, as recorded at Romans 13:1-7. 

Paul was a Roman citizen, and Rome was the world power at that time. Paul's letter, written about the year 56 C.E., counseled Christians to be exemplary citizens.  He wrote:  "Let every soul be in subjection  tot he superior authorities, for there is no authority except by God; the existing authorities stand placed in their relative positions by God."  

Paul here explains that there would not be any human authority if God did not permit it.   (Note: God permitted it because at the time, no one wanted anything else. They were a stubborn group and thought that they needed a human ruler, this is what they needed to say.)  In that sense the superior authorities have a relative position within the framework of God's purpose. It therefore follows that "he who opposes authority has taken a stand against the arrangements of God."  ( Note:  I do not oppose authority. But then God did not intend for them to be corrupt either. But until  Armageddon comes about, for Jesus and God to clear this world of wicked people, we have to follow certain rules by certain authorities, but most important, we have to follow God's rules etc. first and foremost. )

While citizens who do good may receive praise from the superior authorities, these authorities  are also empowered  to administer punishment against wrongdoers.  Those who practice what is bad have ample reason to fear the authorities'  right to act as "an avenger," since the governments do so as "God's  minister." 

Paul concludes his reasoning by saying:  "There is therefore compelling reason for you people to be in subjection, not only  on account of that wrath but also  on account of your conscience.  For that is why you are also paying taxes; for they are God's public servants constantly serving this very purpose."

The responsibility for the disposition of taxes rests with the superior authorities, not with the tax payer. As an honest citizen, a Christian maintains a good conscience. He knows that by subjecting himself to the superior authorities and paying due taxes, not only is he upholding the standard of the community in which he lives but he is also living in harmony with divine requirements.  (Note: Well, they also were not suppose to get greedy either. But in the end, they will be dealt with by God. )

Next time:  The Family and Authority

From the Watchtower magazine, 2000