Titus 3 The Authorities Part 29


Titus 3:1-2

“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate and always to be gentle toward everyone.”

As Christians we are part of two kingdoms but ultimately our allegiance first lies with God, our true King. Having said this, we are also required to be good citizens of our country on earth. We are not above the law but must be obedient to the ruling authorities that God has put in place. When and where our earthly authorities differ from God’s law, we must first be obedient to God. We must not allow the government to lead us astray or cause us to disobey God. If we look to the disciples, we can see that they only disobeyed the government in order to stay obedient to God. They did not do this lightly and many suffered, were beaten, threatened, thrown into jail or even executed for it. As Christians, we must study and understand what God requires of us in His law so we will know when to take a stand. However, we must also be ready for the consequences of these actions. In Acts 5: 29 it says, “Peter and the other apostles replied, ‘We must obey God rather than human beings.’” Simply put, obey God always, and obey those He has put in authority, so long as it doesn’t contradict God’s word. Remember that God has a plan for all things, pray for His guidance and trust that His plan is good.

1. What does Romans 13: 1-5 tell us about the ruling authorities?

2. What does Acts 5:17 teach us about our behavior towards the authorities?

3. How did Daniel and his friends respond when asked to disobey God? What happened as a result?

4. What does Jesus teach us about persecution in Matthew 5: 43-45?

5. Think of some instances where the people were persecuted for preaching the truth or being obedient to God. (i.e. What happened to Stephen? Daniel? Who else?)

Lord of heaven and earth, Ruler Supreme, hear my humble prayer; Fill me with wisdom and understanding of Your word and help me to be a good citizen of Your kingdom. Help me to be obedient to those You have put in authority and to Your law. Be with the ruling authorities and lead them to make good and godly decisions. Teach me to be obedient and forgive me when I fail. Amen


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