Romans 13
Today's Passage: Romans 13
Submitting to Authorities
This chapter covers a wide range of topics, so let’s tackle them in order. When talking about governing authorities we have an extensive list of why we should or shouldn’t listen to them. We do/don’t agree with their politics. The leaders may or may not be good people, but this passage is pretty clear about who established those leaders - God.
We must first remember that Paul is writing to people under Roman rule. This was not an ideal situation for Christians that ultimately ended in severe persecution. Nevertheless, Paul instructs them and us to recognize and respect the authorities in their life.
Recognize their leadership and authority as established by God. Who has God placed as an authority over your life?
We are also called to respect that leadership. This may be particularly hard with government leaders (ie. Presidents), but our conduct should reflect our faith in God. Do you respect the authorities listed above?
Fulfilling the Law through Love
“For the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.” The Bible is extremely clear on what should separate believers from non-believers - love (Jn 13:35), but Paul takes it one step further. Loving one another is how we obey the commandments of God. All the Old Testament and all the New Testament are distilled down to one word - Love. It’s that simple. You have been loved beyond measure by Jesus, it’s time to return that love to those around you.
So if obeying God is THAT simple - how are you doing with your obedience? Is your life marked by love?
Resisting the Flesh
Lastly, Paul makes specific mention of resisting the flesh. “Salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed.” Translation: the Lord is returning soon, and Satan wants nothing more than to pull you into the ways of the flesh and world. Eph 5:16 tells us that “the days are evil.” The world around us promotes and celebrates sin, and if we are honest it looks appealing to us. So how do we resist? Paul tells us to “put on the Lord Jesus Christ.” Clothe yourself in his righteousness, and his love, and recall his promises that his ways of life are more fulfilling.
Brothers and sisters, are you resisting the flesh? Are you putting on the Lord Jesus Christ? I want to remind you of two truths. 1. There is grace. Jesus came so that you could be forgiven and so that he could do it for you. So if you haven’t resisted - it’s ok, Jesus resisted for you. Run to him again. 2. This is why God made us to be in community. You can’t resist alone. Ask a brother or sister to walk with you and help you.
Written By: Joe Weaver
Submitting to Authorities
This chapter covers a wide range of topics, so let’s tackle them in order. When talking about governing authorities we have an extensive list of why we should or shouldn’t listen to them. We do/don’t agree with their politics. The leaders may or may not be good people, but this passage is pretty clear about who established those leaders - God.
We must first remember that Paul is writing to people under Roman rule. This was not an ideal situation for Christians that ultimately ended in severe persecution. Nevertheless, Paul instructs them and us to recognize and respect the authorities in their life.
Recognize their leadership and authority as established by God. Who has God placed as an authority over your life?
We are also called to respect that leadership. This may be particularly hard with government leaders (ie. Presidents), but our conduct should reflect our faith in God. Do you respect the authorities listed above?
Fulfilling the Law through Love
“For the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.” The Bible is extremely clear on what should separate believers from non-believers - love (Jn 13:35), but Paul takes it one step further. Loving one another is how we obey the commandments of God. All the Old Testament and all the New Testament are distilled down to one word - Love. It’s that simple. You have been loved beyond measure by Jesus, it’s time to return that love to those around you.
So if obeying God is THAT simple - how are you doing with your obedience? Is your life marked by love?
Resisting the Flesh
Lastly, Paul makes specific mention of resisting the flesh. “Salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed.” Translation: the Lord is returning soon, and Satan wants nothing more than to pull you into the ways of the flesh and world. Eph 5:16 tells us that “the days are evil.” The world around us promotes and celebrates sin, and if we are honest it looks appealing to us. So how do we resist? Paul tells us to “put on the Lord Jesus Christ.” Clothe yourself in his righteousness, and his love, and recall his promises that his ways of life are more fulfilling.
Brothers and sisters, are you resisting the flesh? Are you putting on the Lord Jesus Christ? I want to remind you of two truths. 1. There is grace. Jesus came so that you could be forgiven and so that he could do it for you. So if you haven’t resisted - it’s ok, Jesus resisted for you. Run to him again. 2. This is why God made us to be in community. You can’t resist alone. Ask a brother or sister to walk with you and help you.
Written By: Joe Weaver
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