Timely tests of our Faith

Read Romans 13.

This passage continues Paul's admonitions from chapter 12 on how we are to treat other people and our personal behaviors.

1. Responding to authorities over us. (vv.1-7)
Here are three test questions to measure our faith in the word of God:
Do I believe "there is no authority except from God" governing me?

Do I believe "those that exist have been instituted by God"?

Do I believe those over me in authority are truly "God's servant for your good"?

The Bible is clear regarding our required attitudes toward parents and employers.  We in the Western World have, perhaps, been too quick to condone wrong attitudes toward some authorities by using a few exception examples.  With our constitutional rights and voting privileges, some have considered themselves equal to or above any governmental authority.  Fortunately, Westerners may change their employment and may vote for change.  However, it is easy to fall prey to disrespect and even rebellion against those with whom we disagree or for whom we did not vote.  In doing so, some have dismissed the very intent of these verses.  Most of the world has not enjoyed such freedoms.  It is crucial in understanding this passage that the ultimate governing authority at the time was Nero.  If these are the expectations of Christians in the context of the Roman Empire, what does that say to us?

Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the Apostle reminded the Roman believers (and us) that unduly resisting God-assigned authorities over us means that we will violate our conscience of what is right and stand to incur God having to deal with us.  Most often, the Lord will use that resented authority to implement His judgment.

Paul listed three required responses: pay your taxes, show respect, give honor.  Not because we believe they deserve it ("owed") but, looking beyond the person, we believe and want to obey God's word.  As stated above, this is a test of our faith.

2. Responding to those around us. (vv.8-10)
Before Paul became a Christian, his life as a Pharisee centered on fully obeying the Law and then some.  But way beyond trying to keep the Ten Commandments outwardly is the statement from the Law in Leviticus 19:18, "but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD."  Jesus quoted this in Matthew 22:37-40 saying that loving God and loving people fulfills all the intent of the Old Testament Law and Prophets.

3. Responding to what is in us. (vv.11-14)
As Paul wrote in chapter 7, "when I want to do right, evil lies close at hand."  Believers must be vigilant and disciplined about attitudes and behaviors.  We must be alert to the fact that at any moment we could be taken out of this life and ushered into the presence of the Lord.  So, we must be ready.  Therefore, stop doing things that displease the Lord and lead to sin.  "Make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires."  Put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6) and shine as a true believer in every circumstance.