Romans 13:1 (KJV)
Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
There may be few passages that have challenged Christian practice more than this one. Given the nature of "higher powers," and taking that to mean governments, the history of evil associated with them raises a hard question: how can we possibly reconcile this teaching?
One of the earliest “test cases” would be that of Jerusalem and Nebuchadnezzar. Jeremiah was thought to be out of his mind when he preached that God wanted them to submit to Babylon. But any clear reading of Jeremiah must conclude that God used an ungodly—one could argue, evil—government for His purposes.
The Jews of Christ’s day were certain that Rome was evil and believed they ought to resist it. They could not conceive of a Messiah who would not fight Rome. Yet far from challenging Roman authority, Jesus pled with His Father to forgive them for their part in His crucifixion.
The man God used to pen this passage—Paul—was himself executed by these very powers.
The history of the Anabaptists and Baptists is one of quiet submission to those powers, even when wicked men, with cruel intent, condemned countless numbers—some suggest millions—to death.
Baptist preacher John Bunyan politely refused Judge Wingate’s order that he cease preaching without a state license. While Bunyan believed he must obey God rather than men, he absolutely rejected any impulse to be rude or disrespectful toward the judge or his authority.
And yet today, I see, with concern, a growing resentment among believers— Baptists included—who express contempt, disrespect, and rebellion toward government.
I do not believe we must always obey the government. But as followers of Christ, we must always respect it.
Romans 13:2 (KJV)
Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
#BiblicalAuthority #RespectThePowers #FaithfulSubmission #ObeyGodRespectGovernment #BaptistHeritage
The Baptist Legacy of Respect and Resolve: Submission Without Compromise
Are you struggling with how to respond to the government as a Bible-believing Christian? God's Word gives us clear answers. Romans 13 isn't just about obedience — it's about living out real respect, even in hard times.
💬 Question for you: How can you show biblical respect for authority this week, even when you disagree? Tell us in the comments!
✍️ Action Step: Write a short, respectful note or email this week to a public servant — a mayor, council member, or officer — thanking them and letting your Christian testimony shine.
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