Summary of Old Testament Jew’s Response to Government

Excerpt #9 of “Analysis of Romans 13:1-7 in Light of the Analogy of Scripture”

Given the length of the full paper I recently published on this site, I am posting excerpts which emphasize specific principles within the paper. Hopefully, these excerpts will not only encourage you to read the actual paper, but also think more deeply about the role of Romans 13:1-7 in our response to both Godly and ungodly civil government in our day and time. A proper understanding and obedience to Scripture is critical today as always. This particular Scripture has been mishandled in so many ways that a methodical approach to its exegesis is needed to avoid further error by both individual Christians and the broader church. The pressures being exerted upon true Christianity by the contemporary civil government demand a Biblical response informed by Romans 13:1-7 and the other Scriptures addressed within this paper.

(These excerpts are posted in the order as found in the paper, but do not include the entirety of the paper which combined. Only the PDF contains all sections of the paper.)

Summary of Old Testament Jew’s Response to Government

In summary of Jewish subjection and response to human government, several principles can be ascertained. First, they were to have a submissive attitude towards earthly rulers while praying to God in all matters including for provision through foreign powers and protection from these same powers. Second, they owed obedience first to God and then to human government only so far as obedience to God could be maintained. Third, when that obedience to God could be maintained, they were to seek the welfare of the government or culture ruling them. Fourth, should the government demand disobedience to God and His Law, the people could resist that government when led by God to do so through leaders appointed by God. Fifth, in contrast, resistance to godly government would result in judgment for those who rebelled. Ultimately, it all boiled down to obeying God. God, as ultimate authority demanded submission to His Will and Law.