The Christian's Duties to the Government (Luke 20:25)
Introduction:
1. When Jesus made the statement recorded in Luke 20:25 He was answering a question that was designed to entrap Him. 2. Jesus was asked if paying tribute to Caesar was lawful. 3. As Jesus answered this question He taught His followers to fulfill our responsibilities to the government as well as our responsibilities to God. 4. Since a change took place last week in our country's leadership, perhaps this is a good time for us to be reminded of "the Christian's duties to the government." 5. Let us begin our study be examining . . .
Discussion:
I. OUR DUTY TO PRAY FOR OUR LEADERS (1 Timothy 2:1-4)
A. According to vs.1-2, we are to talk to God on behalf of everyone, including our civil leaders. B. We are to talk to God through "supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks." C. We are to talk to God through these avenues so "we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty." 1. This pleases God. 2. He wants everyone to be saved and know the truth (2 Peter 3:9). D. In addition to praying for our leaders, let us consider . . .
II. OUR DUTY TO OBEY OUR LEADERS
A. This duty is addressed in: 1. Romans 13:1a 2. Titus 3:1 3. 1 Peter 2:13-14a. B. While God wants us to obey our leaders, we must obey Him rather than men (Acts 5:29). C. According to Romans 13, we are to obey our leaders: 1. because civil authority comes from God (vs.1b; John 19:11) 2. to avoid fear and punishment (vs.2-4) a. The government is responsible for protecting law-abiding citizens and punishing evildoers (1 Peter 2:14b). b. We can overcome fear by obeying the laws of the land (1 Peter 2:15-16). 3. for the sake of conscience (vs.5). D. In addition to praying for our leaders and obeying them, let us turn our attention to . . .
III. OUR DUTY TO SUPPORT AND HONOR OUR LEADERS
A. These responsibilities are revealed in: 1. Romans 13:6-7 2. 1 Peter 2:17. B. God requires His people to: 1. support civil leaders by paying taxes 2. show proper respect to civil authorities, even though others may not.
Conclusion:
1. The Christian's duties to the government include: a. praying for leaders b. obeying our leaders c. supporting and honoring our leaders. 2. As Christians, let us fulfill our responsibilities to God as well as our duties to the government. 3. By doing so we will be model citizens, having a good influence upon others in our community.
