"Remind the believers to submit to the government and its officers. They should be obedient, always ready to do what is good."

During this pandemic the government has been critiqued quite a bit. Whether we identify as a Democrat, a Republican, or a member of another party, it's likely that we haven't been very satisfied with our political leadership. Of course this is not new. Whenever a crisis occurs citizens are apt to complain that their government has handled it poorly.
This is just as true in Paul's day as it is today. In fact, the government of Paul's day was even more corrupt and unjust than our contemporary system. Two of the most despotic and violent Roman emperors ruled during Paul's ministry (Caligula and Nero). And yet in Titus 3:1, Paul tells Christians to submit to the government and its officers. Of course, Paul is not saying that we are to engage in whatever sinful activities that the government orders us to engage in (see Acts 5:29). Rather, Paul is teaching us to give respect and honor to those in authority (Romans 13:7).
Each person must ask this question, what does it mean for me to submit to the government and its officers? This is not such an easy question to answer in times like these when political opinions run so hot. But maybe now would be a good time to ask yourself if there is something that your government is asking of you which you don't want to do, but which you should. Maybe you need to pay a new fee. Maybe you need to follow a new procedure. Whatever it is, do what is good and submit to the government.
(New Living Translation; photo credit: Wix media)
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