Submit to Authority?

Our Bible Study at Open door church opened by reading: 

1 Peter 2:13-14  Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.

Our teacher began by asking; “The government says it is okay to abort babies, and to have same sex relationships, - -  so should we then participate in these laws?

We are to honor the King – the leaders, the police and those who protect the innocent. However we are not obliged to sin just because it is now a law or is freely available.

In history there was a manipulation of the queens to kill the rightful heir so that her son could rule.  Even in the Bible there were wicked queens who killed their own children and grandchildren so they could be the Queen.  Yes there were evil rulers – followed by new Kings who were even more wicked.

We are reminded of Nero who burnt Rome so he could blame it on the Christians and then persecute them.

1 Peter 4:12-16  Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: - - If you be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are you; for the spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. - - But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evil doer, or as a busy body in other men’s matters.  But if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.

Peter was crucified, and Christians were terribly mistreated.  Early in the ministry of Jesus, his cousin, John the Baptist was executed.

Chapter 13 of Romans, warns us to Make NO provision for the flesh to sin.

Sometimes we try to figure out how much we can get away with doing something we desire to participate in.  “Just once,” we tell our self; or as Eve said, only a “tiny bite.” 

Many have been caught in the trap of telling them selves, I will do this and - - later I will repent and God will forgive me!  

Let me tell you that God is NOT in the business of playing games, and although He is merciful and may forgive you if you are sincere - - there will be a time when He says "That is enough !!"

Always remember; What you sow – you shall reap.  Good decisions bring good consequences, and naturally, Bad decisions will bring bad consequences.

It is sad to say that those we hold dear and their choices will also effect us and our families.

Pray for Grace to stand true to God's Word. 

Titus 3:1-7  Reminds us again to obey magistrates and to be ready to do good to others. 

We may have been foolish in the past, but now we are wise knowing Who we are “IN Christ.”

How do we respond when Christians are looked down upon, at school, in the work place, or even by our families?

What do you do when your boss wants you to back up his lie? 

Conflict will come, but a soft answer turns away wrath.  Be ready to be silent, waiting to speak the right thing. 

Our world is shaken, but it is our responsibility to live Christ like and to Honor Him as Lord and our KING.