Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right.
Like it or not, you are a citizen of an earthly nation. Along with all others you are subject to rules and regulations; you pay taxes, you pay VAT, you pass a test before getting a driving licence, and a myriad of other things. Some of the regulations may seem petty at times; you must put your wheelie bin in a designated space for collection, or clear up the mess your dog creates.
The Christian is not exempt from regulations the State institutes. In fact quite the opposite – we have to be more responsible than others because we recognise a higher authority than the State, and God commands us to submit to properly instituted authorities. Just think of some of the things that might mean for you:
Not exceeding the speed limit when driving.
Not parking on the yellow lines.
Not using your hand-held mobile whilst driving.
Not taking home any of your employer’s goods.
Giving a full days work for a full days pay.
Not taking a ‘sickie’ when you are fit to work.
Then think of all the ‘moral responsibilities’ we have as citizens – such as recycling our plastics, metal, paper, glass etc.
Don’t be so caught up with your heavenly citizenship that you fail to live as a responsible citizen in the here and now!
