The Highest Authority

Newspaper Articles

Paul Adams
06/28/15 - Newspaper Articles

We live under many different levels of authority. Consider that in New Testament times, and today, that governments possess power to make laws. We see that sometimes these laws stand in conflict with the word of God. An example of this was the legalization of abortion in the 1973 Roe v Wade decision. God has never approved of the taking of unborn life, regardless of the ruling of the Supreme Court. Another example is the recent Supreme Court decision to allow the redefinition of Marriage. God’s law remains that marriage is: one man, and one woman, for life; with one exception. (Matthew 19:3-9). So when there is this conflict between civil law and God’s authority what should we do? What does the Bible say?

Respect Authorities. “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.” (Romans 13:1)
Recognize The Highest Authority. “And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, ‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.’” (Matthew 28:18)
Obey God. When Peter and the other apostles were commanded by authorities to violate what they were told by God to do, Peter said, “We ought to obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29). When any ruler, or any court makes a decision in opposition to God revealed truth: obey God!

John the Baptist stood before Herod, a ruler. Herod was in a relationship that God rejected. John told this lawmaker, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” (Matthew 14:4) The highest Judge is the one whose judgment seat we must all stand before when this life is over: Jesus! (2 Corinthians 5:10.) Obey Him!