Verse of the Day (November 13, 2019)

Verse of the Day (November 13, 2019) #BMSeminary – Freedom in Christ to worship him as Lord does not preclude submission to earthly authorities. Rather, having been set free in Christ to trust him body and soul, we are now free to trust that earthly authorities are only in place by his permission (see also Rom. 13:1–7). When we sinfully rebel against earthly authorities, we unwittingly testify that our hope is in earthly things. Ironically enough, however, when we cling to Christ’s sovereign lordship and eternal riches, we are free to submit to civil authorities, demonstrating that our hearts are not tuned to the world and its passing riches (cf. Mark 12:17). In other passages the Bible will help believers consider how to deal with unlawful authorities, or those who may be lawfully opposed. Here, however, the focus is on honoring the government (even one that may be antagonistic to Christians) that maintains a society’s order, thus becoming God’s instrument for facilitating the testimony and progress of the gospel. Peter believes that holding to the gospel will make us not problematic revolutionaries but humble and honorable citizens. This underscores yet another distinction between Christians and those who trust only in the things of this world and who consequently are always seeking power and privilege (Ps. 20:7). (Gospel Transformation Study Bible)