Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to slander no one, to avoid fighting, and to be kind, always showing gentleness to all people. Titus 3:1-2 HCSB
In America, there is a great divide among the political parties. We have Democrats, Republicans, Tea Party, and Independents. All have different beliefs and principles. We may not agree with some of the actions and decisions of those in authority if they are from a different party than our own political party, but God calls for all of us to be submissive to rulers and authorities.
Paul’s call to submission is based on the Greek military word “hupotasso” which literally means, “to place under.” This term is used by Paul in some of his other letters to represent the relationship among believers, a wife to a husband, and a slave or employee to a master or employer. Being submissive to government does not mean we agree with everything done by the government. The only time to disobey the government is when asked to do something that is in direct conflict with God’s Word.
Challenge: Evidently some had fought with the government and slandered officials. Paul called on the people to be kind and show gentleness to all people (including government officials). It is easy for us to talk negatively about government officials when we do not agree with decisions they are making. As believers we should set a good example by obeying government officials even when we don’t agree with what is being done.