Respecting authority (1)
2022-02-28Hebrews 13:17 NCV
If we want to be in a position of authority and leadership one day, we have to first learn to respect authority. If we don’t, we won’t really understand what it means to be a follower, and we’ll have no credibility with the people we’re leading because we wouldn’t do what we’re expecting of them. Films, books and TV has a tendency to glamorise rebels and turn them into heroes.
Occasionally in real life, it can take a rebellious attitude to be the catalyst for a much-needed change to happen. But it’s not a strategy we should use regularly for everything in life. Constantly fighting against those in authority (especially if the reason for our defiance is just because the person has authority) can lead to all kinds of problems. The Bible has a lot to say about respecting those in authority. Here are some examples:
1) ‘Children, obey your parents as the Lord wants, because this is the right thing to do. “Honour your father and mother.” This is the first command that has a promise with it – “Then everything will be well with you, and you will have a long life on the earth”‘ (Ephesians 6:1-3 NCV).
2) ‘Obey your leaders and act under their authority. They are watching over you, because they are responsible for your souls.’
3) ‘The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted’ (Romans 13:1-2 NIV).
4) ‘I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people – for kings and all those in authority…This is good, and pleases our Saviour’ (1 Timothy 2:1-3 NIVUK).