Respect For Authorities (Sermon Blog)
In Romans 13, Paul turns to a subject that can be challenging: how Christians should respond to government and authority. His words remind us that our faith impacts not only how we relate to God, but also how we live as citizens.
God’s Design for Authority
Romans 13:1-2 tells us: “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.”
All authority ultimately comes from God.
To resist authority is, in principle, to resist God’s design.
Respecting leaders doesn’t always mean agreeing with them — it means honoring the position God allows.
Promises vs. Principles
Paul’s teaching in this chapter is less about promises and more about principles:
Promises are always true (Romans 10:13, Romans 8:1).
Principles are generally true but may vary (Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the way he should go…”).
Respecting authority is a principle of Christian citizenship. It’s not about blind obedience, but about living with order and honor in society.
The Role of Government
Paul outlines the purpose of government in cultivating a good and civil society:
To restrain evil and protect the good.
To uphold law and order for the safety of its citizens.
To serve as a guardrail that benefits communities.
Why Submit to Authorities?
Because they are God’s servants (Romans 13:4).
Submission reflects our desire to live with a clear conscience before God.
1 Peter 2:13-14 reminds us: “Make the Master proud of you by being good citizens. Respect the authorities, whatever their level.”
Paying Taxes and Supporting Order
Paul also speaks directly to the practical side of citizenship:
“Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes… if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.” (Romans 13:7)
Taxes fund public services, protection, and infrastructure — things we often benefit from daily.
Even Jesus paid taxes (Matthew 17:27).
When to Disobey Authorities
Paul also leaves room for discernment:
When the higher law of God is in conflict with the lower law of man, obedience to God comes first.
Examples from Scripture and history:
Hebrew midwives disobeyed Pharaoh (Exodus 1).
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to bow to Nebuchadnezzar’s idol (Daniel 3).
The apostles continued preaching Jesus when told not to (Acts 5:29).
Dietrich Bonhoeffer stood against Hitler’s regime.
Civil disobedience may cost something — but faithfulness to God is worth it.
The Call to Pray for Leaders
Paul also reminds us through 1 Timothy 2:1-2: “Pray for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
We may not like certain leaders or policies, but we are called to pray for wisdom and good decisions.
Prayer is our greatest tool for influence and change.
Living as Salt and Light
As believers, we are not called to withdraw from society, but to engage it faithfully:
To be good citizens.
To honor authority while honoring God above all.
To live as the salt of the earth and the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-16).
Closing Challenge
What is your next step toward being a better citizen of both heaven and earth?
Start praying for leaders, even the ones you disagree with.
Get involved in positive ways that bring change.
Live with respect, honor, and faith, trusting that God is sovereign over every authority.
👉 Join us next Sunday as we continue our series When In Romans with Part 13.