"Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on their self." Romans 13:1-2 (NIV)
Those of us, who have ever served in the military, or in law enforcement, understand the chain of command. We are expected to comply with all lawful commands, regardless of how stupid we might think they are. Did you know God also granted that authority to all bosses, whether they are a Four Star General or just the Manager at Burger Place?
There is no one in Earthly Authority that God has not put there for his own purposes. Even evil and brutal leaders have their positions for a reason. Remember Pharaoh? God's purpose was to allow him to be the clown God rained his wrath upon.
The same principles that apply to An Admiral, a sheriff, and the Shift Supervisor at Burger Place apply to our submission to those who have been given Apostolic or spiritual leadership over us. Opposing a Pastor, an Elder, or a Bishop is opposing the God who placed him in that place of authority. Submission to those in spiritual authority over you is not optional for a Christian. Submission to those in Earthly Authority is not optional for a Christian.
If we are following in the footsteps of the Messiah, we can not oppose those with lawful authority over us. Jesus himself gives the greatest example of submission in the History of the Universe, when he submitted to what The Father asked of him.
Father, Father, everything is possible with you. Take away this cup from me. Yet I want your will, not mine," Mark 13:46 (TLB)
Copyright 2007 Timothy E. Davis