SECULAR STATE

 

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Believers Christians are obliged to obey state power and observe the laws, unless they contradict God's commandments - for example, instead of Saturday, they observe Sunday or another false worship, and also prescribe to worship icons, statues and other idols - this is the main principle.

 

 

Who is to obey civil rule?

“Let every soul be submissive to the higher authorities; for there is no power except from God“ (Rom 13.1).

 

 

Who established the existing authorities?

“The powers that exist are established by God“ (ibid.).

 

 

What does one who opposes civil authority oppose?

“Therefore he who opposes the authority opposes God's ordinance; but those who oppose themselves will bring condemnation upon themselves” (v.2).

Note. “It means that people rebel against the authorities, try to cause anarchy and disorder and not obey the requirements of the laws. This does not mean, however, that such laws are contrary to the convictions of conscience or contrary to the laws of God” (Albert Barnes. On Romans 13.2).

 

 

What is civil power for?

“For the rulers are terrible not for good deeds, but for evil ones... If you do evil, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain: he is God's servant, the avenger in punishment for doing evil” (vv.3-4).

 

 

To whom is the law given?

“Knowing that the law is not made for the righteous, but for the lawless and disobedient” (1 Tim 1.9).

 

 

How are Christians called to respect civil authority?

“Remind them to obey and submit to superiors and authorities, to be ready for every good work“ (Titus 3.1).

“Be submissive to every human authority, for the Lord: whether the king, as the supreme authority, or the rulers, as sent from Him to punish criminals and to encourage those who do good... Honor everyone, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king” (1 Pet 2.13-17).

“For this you pay taxes; for they are God's servants, and are constantly engaged in this very thing. So give everyone their due: to whom to give, to give; to whom dues, dues; to whom fear, fear; To whom is honor, honor” (Rom 13.6-7).