Our Relationship to the State: Dutiful Submission (Romans 13:1-7)

In Romans 12, we saw how disciples of Jesus are recognized by a non-retaliating love for their enemies that seeks peace with all and leaves vengeance with God. But this raised an important issue: What about evil? What about justice? All of this leads Paul to consider the Christian’s relationship to the state and discuss how God’s wrath works itself out in the world even now. In this sermon, pastor Matt reminds us that the posture of a citizen of heaven towards rulers and authorities is one of submission unto the Lord. For we recognize that they are God’s appointed servants, under the rule of his Christ, authorized to punish what is evil and to promote what is good