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Christians and Government
Romans 13:1-7
Pastor Marv, Grace Bible Church
11-29-20

The Bible has much to say about human government…and God’s people under human government. The Old Testament has much to say about Israel’s governmental structure…as well as that of Jesus Messiah when He returns (it won’t be a democracy!). Jesus gave a perfect synopsis of our responsibility before government in Matthew 22:21. Peter gave a wonderful summary in 1 Peter 2:13-17. But one of the best descriptions of human government from God’s perspective is found in our text today.

Human government is God’s plan.

Five words which show that human government is God’s plan.

1) Authority, or authorities (verses 1-2)…which means possessing the right, or authorization, to perform a function or duty. Note who gives this authority in verse 2.

2) Rulers (verse 3)…the right to rule, decide, set standards, etc. “Taxes”, for example, in verse 6.

3) Minister (verse 4)…from which we get our word “deacon.” Deacons (whether in the church, or in society in general) were men who did what was necessary to keep things orderly and organized.

4) Avenger (verse 4)…which refers to the right of government to exercise deadly force (“the sword”) in the enforcement of law and order.

5) Servant (verse 6)…a different word from #3 above. This word was used of priests and Levites in their duties in the temple…in religious matters. Similarly, the government is intended by God to perform duties in secular matters.



Human government exists to promote God’s purposes.

Context. Remember that the government about which Paul was writing specifically (the Roman government) was an oppressive, militaristic, unjust government. Yet, under the sovereignty of God, even such governments can to some degree promote His purposes for society.

God’s two purposes for government in this passage…

1) To reward good behavior (verses 3-4a)…

2) To restrain bad behavior (verse 4b)…

Human government in our country invites our participation.

A list of some of our responsibilities as God’s people under God’s governments.

#1…”submit” (verse 1)…acknowledging governmental authority as God’s authority.

#2…”good behavior” (verse 3)…model citizens…honest…hard-working…law-abiding… respectful and loving toward others.

#3…”taxes” and “customs” (verse 7)…paying our taxes.

#4…”fear” and “honor” (verse 7)…respect for governmental officials.

Outside of Romans 13…

#5…participation in government. Voting, running for or holding public office. Examples: Joseph (Egypt); Queen Esther; Nehemiah, cup-bearer to the king; Daniel.

In 1 Timothy 2:1-2…

#6…praying for government officials (verses 1-2)…

#7…keeping our church priorities straight before God (verse 2b)…