What in the Word?
Must Christians Submit to Government? | Kaitlyn Schiess on Romans 13:1–7
Feb 20, 2025
Kaitlyn Schiess, author of "The Ballot and the Bible" and a theology student at Duke Divinity School, dives deep into Romans 13, exploring the nuanced command for Christians to submit to governing authorities. She discusses various interpretations of this passage, the historical context, and the implications of civil disobedience. Schiess highlights the balance between obedience to earthly powers and the ultimate authority of Christ while encouraging thoughtful engagement with politics informed by faith.
49:45
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Quick takeaways
- Paul's assertion that governing authorities are ordained by God emphasizes a complex relationship between divine authority and civil obedience.
- Different interpretations of Romans 13 highlight the spectrum of beliefs on submission, requiring careful consideration of context and historical perspectives.
Deep dives
Authority as Divine Institution
The concept of governing authorities as instituted by God is emphasized, highlighting that all authority is ultimately derived from the divine. Paul argues that those who resist government are resisting a system ordained by God. This premise creates a framework for understanding governmental roles as servants who are expected to reward good conduct and punish wrongdoing. It implies a significant responsibility on rulers to act justly, which adds complexity to the idea of unconditional submission.
