“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” (Romans 13:1-2 NIV)

In his letter to Christians in Rome, the Apostle Paul advocates for submission to government authorities, arguing that they are God’s servants to maintain order and justice.

Similarly, the Apostle Peter instructs the faithful to submit to rulers, thereby silencing critics and honoring God.

“Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people.” (1 Peter 2:13-15)

As we see, the Bible addresses obedience to government authorities in several key passages, emphasizing a general principle of respect and submission to those in power, while also recognizing God’s ultimate authority. However…

How are we to respond in situations where those in positions of authority mandate or coerce behavior that is contrary to God’s word? This is a crucial question in light of the current administration’s assault on the poor, the sick and the sojourner – an assault that is clearly at odds with the Lord’s commands for love, charity, hospitality, patience and grace.

Blessedly, God definitively affirms that His authority – as revealed in scripture – is supreme. That is, when human authority conflicts with His word, civil disobedience is not only merited, but mandated.

“We must obey God rather than human beings!” (Acts 5:29)

These words, delivered by Peter in response to the high priest’s command to remain silent regarding culpability in the death of Jesus, clearly establish that obedience to God takes precedence when authorities contradict His word.

Such obedience was demonstrated by Daniel who continued to pray to God despite a royal ban (Daniel 6) – and by his friends Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego who refused King Nebuchadnezzar’s edict that his image was to be worshipped (Daniel 3). In both cases, they respectfully disobeyed unjust laws and accepted the consequences, putting their trust in God.

Christians are called upon to obey just laws that align with biblical commands to respect civil authorities. But when legislative mandates directly contradict God’s commands, Christians are not only permitted but obligated to respectfully disobey.

We must respond to governmental directives that promote injustice, violate human rights, subjugate the disenfranchised and demand behavior that contradicts God’s law. Christians are called on to advocate for the oppressed and to oppose corruption and injustice, especially in the face of the political status quo. This is not partisanship; this is a commitment to truth, to mercy, to righteousness, to love, and to God.

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
for the rights of all who are destitute.
Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy. (Proverbs 31:8-9)

As Paul reminds us in Philippians 3:20, as Christians “our citizenship is in heaven.” We must view all earthly powers through that lens. Loyalty to a nation or political party must never override our loyalty to Christ and His commands.

Scripture teaches us that judgment is coming for those that choose to reject the Lord’s commands for compassion and love. I believe punishment will be rendered not only to those who legislate the oppression of the vulnerable, but also those who enable, empower and encourage disobedience through their advocacy.

Woe to those who make unjust laws,
to those who issue oppressive decrees,
to deprive the poor of their rights
and withhold justice from the oppressed of my people. (Isaiah 10:1-2a)

In conclusion, those who would resist injustice and pursue righteousness must do so with humility…and in prayer. We must advocate for change with respect and love, even while strongly opposing unjust laws. Engagement should be marked by grace, not hatred, slander or division. This is what God demands of us. Our posture matters.

For the Lord is our judge,
the Lord is our lawgiver,
the Lord is our king;
it is he who will save us. (Isaiah 33:22)