Christians and Civil Authority: Living Under God’s Design
Christians and Civil Authority: Living Under God’s Design
1 Peter 2:13-17
Who gives governments the right to tell us what to do? Does the federal government have the authority to tax my income? Can the state tell me how fast to drive on I-75? Does my county have the right to regulate my sewage or my windows? What about my HOA dictating my lawn height or house color? And tougher still: Can the government force me, as a minister, to perform a same-sex marriage? Or order me to stay home during a pandemic? Where do these rights come from, and am I obligated to obey?
These questions aren’t always easy, but Scripture gives us clarity. In 1 Peter 2:13-17, Peter calls us to “be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution.” This isn’t blind obedience but a theological stance rooted in God’s design. Let’s unpack what that means for us as Christians.
God’s Good Provision
Some folks, even believers, see government as a necessary evil—something to endure until Jesus returns. But Scripture paints a different picture. Romans 13:1-4 tells us, “There is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” Jesus Himself told Pilate, “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above” (John 19:11). Governments aren’t accidents; they’re God’s servants, designed to reflect His authority in the world.
What’s the purpose of government? It boils down to three things: administering justice, maintaining peace and order for human flourishing, and clearing the way for God’s people to share the gospel. Governments punish crimes, protecting the value of human life made in God’s image. They set rules—like building codes or traffic laws—so we can live safely and harmoniously. Think about it: someone has to decide which side of the road we drive on, or we’d all crash! And by fostering order, governments create space for us to read our Bibles, eat safe food, and raise families in stable homes—all so we can proclaim Christ.
Submission with a Purpose
Peter’s command to “be subject” isn’t about fear of punishment; it’s about honoring God. When we submit to rightful authority, we glorify the One who established it. Proverbs 8:15 says, “By me kings reign, and rulers decree what is just.” God is sovereign over every president, governor, and HOA board. Even when they don’t acknowledge Him, He uses them for His purposes.
But submission isn’t absolute. If a government’s laws contradict God’s Word, we must obey God rather than men, as Peter declared in Acts 5:29. The Hebrew midwives defied Pharaoh to save babies (Exodus 1). Daniel kept praying despite a royal decree (Daniel 6). When governments demand we violate God’s commands—like forcing a pastor to perform a marriage against biblical teaching—we respectfully say no. Yet even in disobedience, we honor the institution God created, recognizing its role in His plan.
Living as Free Servants
Peter reminds us in verse 16 that we are “free” in Christ—free from sin’s power, guilt, and the burden of earning God’s favor. This freedom doesn’t make us rebels; it empowers us to serve God and others. When we obey traffic laws or HOA rules, even if we’d prefer hot pink paint, we show the world we’re not lawless. By doing good, we “silence the ignorance of foolish people” (v. 15). Imagine my neighbor, skeptical of Christians, watching me follow the rules. He can’t accuse me of disregarding authority, and that opens a door for the gospel.
Honoring All, Fearing God
Verse 17 sums it up: “Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.” Everyone deserves honor as image-bearers of God. We love our fellow believers, showing the world Christ’s presence in us. We fear only God, revering His ultimate authority. And yes, we honor the emperor—or president—because their role, ordained by God, demands respect, even when we disagree.
Looking to the True King
Governments, good or bad, are temporary. Psalm 2 reminds us that earthly rulers who defy God will face His judgment. Jesus, the King of kings, reigns supreme. As we submit to human authorities for the Lord’s sake, we trust His sovereignty. Whether it’s paying taxes or picking an HOA-approved paint color, we live as free servants, pointing others to the One who holds all authority.
So, let’s honor God by respecting the institutions He’s ordained, standing firm when they stray from His truth, and resting in the promise that King Jesus will one day make all things right.
