The Business of Government

Government among men is God’s idea. Paul wrote: “There is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.” (Romans 13:1) It is one of His blessings to mankind. Anarchy – the lack of government – would be devastating. It would truly be the survival of the fittest or put more bluntly – a dog eat dog world. Even the anarchist could not survive anarchy.

Rulers exist in the world for the benefit of those who do good and for the punishment of those who do evil. Paul put it this way: “Rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil…he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid, for he bears not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God a revenger to execute wrath upon him that does evil.” (Romans 13:3-4)

We should pray for those who rule. Again Paul wrote: “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority.” He then adds what should be the goal of such prayers: “That we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.” (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

Claude