let us examine the Christian-Government relationship (Luke 20:19-26)
Introduction:
1. On this occasion Jesus answered 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. This morning we examined the father-child relationship. 5. This evening, "let us examine the Christian-government relationship." Discussion: I. LET US EXAMINE OUR RESPONSIBILITY 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. The Lord wants His people to pray for government leaders. II. LET US EXAMINE OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO OBEY OUR LEADERS
A. This responsibility 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. The Lord wants His people to pray for civil leaders and obey them. III. LET US EXAMINE OUR RESPONSIBILITIES 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. Conclusion:
1. Our responsibilities to the government include: a. praying for leaders b. obeying our leaders c. supporting and honoring our leaders. 2. Let us fulfill our responsibilities to God as well as our responsibilities to the government. 3. By doing so we will be model citizens, having a positive influence upon others.
