Submission is the norm; non-submission is the exception.
— John Whittaker and Daniel McCoy, Following Jesus in a Politically Divided World
No matter who we are or what our political views may be, all of us are affected by government. The State is responsible for making and enforcing the laws that govern our country. Even in the "land of the free," it’s hard to find an area of life that the government doesn’t at least influence.
In the book Following Jesus in a Politically Divided World, authors John Whittaker and Daniel McCoy suggest reading Romans 13:1-7 and then doing this writing exercise:
“Based on this passage and other Bible passages you have read, write a short (we are thinking a paragraph) ‘personal philosophy of government’ that will help you filter out the noise and stay focused on the main things to look for in candidates and expect from the government” (p. 20).
As much as I have thought about politics throughout my life, I realized I have never done something like this. I don’t have a “personal philosophy of government” and figure that it would be good to have one before I deliver the sermon, Clarity about Politics, as part of the Clarity: Think Clearly About Life’s Tough Topics series.
First, here are a few observations I have about Romans 13:1-7:
1. This passage is a continuation of Paul’s teaching about not taking revenge because it is God’s responsibility to avenge wrongdoing. I think this is crucial to remember because it not only explains why God allows the State to wield the sword (we often see God using different kings and kingdoms as instruments of judgment throughout Scripture), but also why Christians are to submit to authority (verses 4-5).
2. Governing authorities exist because they are instituted by God. In the case of the United States, this begins with constitutions—both individual state constitutions and the federal constitution. The United States is governed by the rule of law, not by monarchies or dictators.
3. The most important role of government is to maintain law and order. God allows governments because, left to our own devices, people often take advantage of one another. Government exists to enforce contracts between parties, ensure fair commerce, and punish those who abuse the system.
4. Christians are expected to submit to governing authorities, not because they are always good, but because even when they are bad, they prevent chaos from reigning. Remember, Paul is telling Christians to submit to authorities who are ruthless, crucify rebels, maintain an oppressive tax system, and encourage emperor worship (just to name a few). We should not be planning a revolt against our government, no matter how unjust it might seem.
Personal Philosophy of Government
Government is instituted by God to maintain peace and promote the prosperity of the nation. It does this by issuing and enforcing just laws, creating and maintaining infrastructure that promotes commerce and safe travel, protecting the liberty of individuals, bringing justice to lawbreakers, and providing for the common defense. To do this job well requires intelligent and virtuous leaders and fair taxes. This allows government to operate in such a way that it pleases God.
I’m not entirely satisfied with this statement, but I do think it provides a nice starting point for refining my thoughts.
This exercise highlights the reality that most people don’t have a thought-out philosophy of government. This leads to the unfortunate fact that people tend to vote based on what they perceive to be their own self-interest. Instead of seeking wise counsel, many people vote based on what seems right to them.
That describes the state of American political discourse at the moment.
