Should Christians Obey All Government Laws?

Never before have our lives been so drastically impacted and changed by those in authority. Each of us are facing decisions we never thought we’d need to make. There is much turmoil, confusion, fear, discouragement and uncertainty. Which is exactly what I believe the Enemy intended. 

I realize this post may be controversial. In all honesty, I have never struggled in writing another blog as I have with this one. Why? Because I want to be obedient in what God has been laying on my heart, yet I also don’t want to offend or mislead. Just as I desire to show grace without judgement towards others, I appreciate the same.

Let me begin by sharing two important facts. First, I am not undermining the potential danger of this coronavirus, especially for specific, vulnerable individuals. In fact, these precious ones, like my own daughter, hold a special place in my heart. Those of you who know our family’s story likely understand why. 

Next, I am not a rebel. (Although I am well aware that I may now become accused of being one.) I believe in upholding the governing laws of the land. I believe it is important to respect and obey authority.

I have not always practiced this perfectly and I honestly admit there have been a few times when I intentionally broke the speed limit. (face palm) This is the only time to my knowledge when I have intentionally broken a government law, and it was rather embarrassing when I was pulled over and attempted to give the avenging officer my excuse. I was trying to make up time while running late on my way to a prison. How ironic! (The officer seemed to find it rather amusing and actually thanked me for doing prison ministry, while offering me a kind warning.)

And finally, in reading this blog, please realize that my husband and I certainly don’t pretend to possess all the answers. In fact, it sometimes feels we have more questions than answers. But in our praying and studying scripture, this is what we feel is a balanced approach to the issues at hand.

Let’s take a look at what God’s word says about governing authorities.

“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.”

Romans 13:1-5

This clearly defines there are authority structures that God has ordained and established for our protection. Authority and order is a gift to us. Yet, we have accepted a warped, authoritarian, and unbiblical view of what governmental authority actually is. Not only have we accepted it, but, sadly, we’ve welcomed it. 

Each of us likely agree there are governmental, church, and personal/parental authorities clearly defined in God’s word. There are also authority roles depicted within establishments and relationships. 

But let’s think about what governmental authority looks like in our world today and what God’s word depicts it to be. And herein lies, what I believe, to be the underlying problem of most of today’s turmoil and confusion. 

According to Romans 13, governmental rulers are ordained to avenge evil and reward good. Their primary role is to keep order and protect our citizens. Nowhere, in my opinion, is there any indication in scripture that the government was intended to provide healthcare for us. Their role is not in providing education for our children. And the government has not been given authority to decide when or how we should worship God. They are not depicted as being responsible for the welfare or health of it’s citizens. It is the church’s role to fill the need of feeding and caring for the orphans, the widows and the homeless.

We have failed as a church and have shirked our God-given responsibility in allowing this kind of overreach. It’s time we step up and retake our God-ordained roles. Enough is enough. Why have we shirked our responsibilities for a more comfortable life? Why have we willingly turned our children over to the state, allowing them to tell us how to medically care for them? Why have we welcomed the government to educate our children or take care of our elderly? Since we have given them these misplaced responsibilities, should we be dismayed when they are attempting greater control? 

Whenever there is a confusion of authority, someone is shirking their responsibility or overstepping their bounds.

The picture below may be helpful in visualizing what happens when authorities step outside of their roles and try to move into other circles of authority.

As believers, each of us have probably struggled in understanding our roles during this pandemic. What is the most godly and redemptive way for us to respond? What would Jesus do? What should our attitudes be toward those who are creating laws that violate not only our higher laws, but also our personal lives? The areas in which God will hold us accountable.

Let’s think of a different example of authority overreach. Let’s suppose my church leaders tell me I am required to send my children to their private school rather than homeschooling them. But my husband believes we should continue to home educate. Should I step out from under my husband’s authority and what we, as parents, have established for our family because of what the church is demanding? I don’t think so. Why? Because the role of the church should never overstep our parental authority. The church needs to function within the role for which it was intended.

The greatest issue at hand in this situation wouldn’t be regarding whether I am disobeying and going against the rules of the church. The issue needing to be addressed would be the church’s unbalanced and unbiblical overreach.

In 1 Timothy 5:8 we are told that if we don’t provide or care for our families we are worse than an unbeliever. God holds us responsible for our family. In order to truly care for our families, I believe we need to be aware of what is coming our way and protest anything that violates our ability to do what God has called us to do.

The same is true in our current situation. The government is reaching way outside of their domain of authority.

Should we be made to feel we are disrespecting and disobeying authority when we choose not to follow those who are not in authority to make these “so called” laws? No, I don’t believe so.

Let me share another example. The local police officers in our area have told our church they will not enforce the governor’s restrictions and prevent us from worshipping as a church body, because it would cause them to break a greater law. Are they doing the right thing? I believe so.

We have been blessed by the many individuals who’s heartfelt desires have been to respect and obey authority. In fact, I believe this accurately reflects the heart of every true believer.

But we need to keep in mind the highest law of our land. The United States Constitution is the highest authority in America and is foundation on which all other laws are established. It is called the supreme law for a reason. Every government leader who is placed into office takes an oath to obey and uphold this law. Let’s read a section of what it consists of: 

This Constitution, and the laws of the United States which shall be made in pursuance thereof; and all treaties made, or which shall be made, under the authority of the United States, shall be the supreme law of the land; and the judges in every state shall be bound thereby, anything in the Constitution or laws of any…

The Constitution holds judges and state officials accountable and declares that no laws can be made against the Constitution. Which later describes freedom to assemble, religious freedoms, the right to travel, etc. 

Yet, most of the issues states are facing today are caused by governors who are violating the Constitution and attempting to create their own “laws”. Not only are they in defiance against their authorities, they are also reaching out of their sphere of authority, and violating the freedom of others.

Should we simply follow every “law” that is passed? Absolutely not, when that individual has no authority in making these law. We are guilty of greater disobedience and disrespect when we follow a governor or other government authority who is going against the higher authority of the Constitution.

Another reason we have been resisting and taking a stand against this tyranny overreach is because we also believe it is rooted in demonic power. And it directly violates the part of our lives for which we are directly and personally accountable to God.

So what should our role be as Christians? What should we do?

My friend, we are not called to be peacekeepers, we are called to be peacemakers. And we cannot make peace if we do not get involved.

Many of us have also been influenced by the perspective of Jesus saying His “kingdom is not of this world” as meaning we shouldn’t become involved in our world’s issues. But when we study the life of Jesus, we see Him and His disciples actively being involved in speaking out against the evil and wrong of their day. God’s kingdom is not immaterial or irrelevant. No one in the history of mankind entered into the relevant humanitarian issues of His day more than Jesus did, and we simply cannot believe Jesus would remain silent and inactive in today’s events either.

I believe this could be the catalyst to call our church out of the slumber and indifference we have basked in for years. This is a picture much bigger than standing against unjust laws that infringe on “American rights.”

I wonder what would happen if churches would collectively unite and stand up against evil. Could we make a difference if we’d rise up against the evil in our world? We have been silenced for too long. TOO LONG! Evil agendas have made great strides in our country because of uniting together for a common goal. Why can we not become passionate to stop the evil, and boldly speak about the things that are breaking the heart of our Father? Where is our love? Our works in action? Where is our faith and our trust in God’s protection and sovereignty? Are we more concerned about not offending those who may have opposing views than the lives and well-being of individuals?

We cannot continue to comfortably hunker down in our homes and watch these atrocities unfolding before our eyes. We are called for “such a time as this.” 

I believe God is shaking everything that can be shaken to help us open our eyes. It is time to arise out of our comfortable slumber. Spiritual wickedness in high places needs to be torn down. We are God’s greatest army, and each one of us can make a difference. It may include making phone calls, signing petitions, voting, exposing lies and sharing truth. The greatest way we can be involved is by praying and fasting, but there also comes a time when practical action is also needed. “When we study the life of Jesus, we don’t see Him “playing it safe.” Jesus entered into much of the “messiness” and controversy of His day.

Instead of being driven by fear, what would happen if each of us boldly stepped into the messiness of today? Isn’t it time to enter into the messiness of speaking up and trying to stop the atrocities regarding abortions, child neglect and abuse, domestic violence, sex trafficking and the darkness around us? Isn’t it time we step up against those who are attempting to control and destroy our lives? This is not about obeying authority. This is about “tearing down wickedness in high places.”

We have done many good things in Jesus’ name, but we have also remained passive and accomplished little in combatting evil. We have chosen to side step the issues and have responded like the religious Levite from the Good Samaritan story, carefully and peacefully passing by on the other side. 

We are called to be peacemakers. Not cowards. Peacemakers are not inactive, and peacemakers do not become door mats. Peacemaking involves much courage and involvement. We have been the “Levites” far too long. By our silence and passivity, we have automatically sided with the Enemy.

It’s time to rise up, oh men and women of God!

~Cindy (for the Mullett family)

45 Comments
  • Lena
    Posted at 19:20h, 14 May

    Thank you for publishing this. I believe you’re right.

  • Karen Weaver
    Posted at 20:24h, 14 May

    Cindy, would you consider publishing this on Facebook? There are many who would benefit from reading this. Perhaps you have already shared it. I found it very encouraging. God bless you as you serve Him!

  • Esther
    Posted at 20:37h, 14 May

    Amen amen and amen.

  • Esther
    Posted at 20:39h, 14 May

    Thank you so much for sharing. I couldn’t make a difference I tried. But hopefully your word will.

  • Maria K. Verderaime
    Posted at 20:49h, 14 May

    So well written and eloquent. It’s so refreshing to hear a sister in Christ affirming what I have had in my heart for a long time now. The Spirit is working in the world….the time is drawing near and we may be close to a time where our testimony may mean our death. Yes, at this time we need to rebuke evil and stand against it and when all is done…stand!

  • Ed
    Posted at 01:39h, 15 May

    This is exactly what the Lord has been impressing upon my heart through His word. I commend you for standing on the Lord’s side, as I feel very few do these days. It encourages those who seek His righteousness, and makes ‘enemies’ of those who don’t have God first. I marvel at the painful yet sweet polarizing effect of following Jesus step by step. May the Lord find us faithful! You’re in our prayers. ?

  • Sara
    Posted at 06:12h, 15 May

    Amen! God bless you Cindy! Thank you for sharing what God has laid on your heart. It is truth and it has really blessed me and convicted me.

  • Leslie Byler
    Posted at 07:33h, 15 May

    Thanks so much Cindy for this beautiful message that speaks to the heart of what Christians need to hear these days! You should consider having seminars with a powerful post like this!! Pretty much sums up where I stand on this issue! Let’s get more involved in the outcry against abortion,child abuse,human trafficking,etc! God Bless your family in all you do in Jesus name!??

  • Lucy Zimmerman
    Posted at 08:03h, 15 May

    VERY WELL SAID!! THANKS for sharing!! I totally agree with everything you have said!!

  • Rebecca Hoffman
    Posted at 09:37h, 15 May

    Cindy, This was a most enlightening blog and you were able to express what has also been on my heart in a very coherent and understandable way. I appreciate what you wrote and pray God’s richest blessing and protection for your family!

  • Jeanie
    Posted at 12:22h, 15 May

    Thank you for this timely insightful message. Being pulled in many directions causes the thought process to get muddled, and this clearly defines what my original foundation is. Even though we can know in our spirit what convictions are, it’s sometimes hard to convince even other believers.
    I truly believe this situation has brought many, including myself, to a deeper prayer life and walk with the Lord. We, as a generation, have never been pressed to stand boldly for our faith, and have lived pretty securely within our communities. Let us press towards the mark( and not the one a ‘vaccine’ would require .

  • Rita
    Posted at 14:36h, 15 May

    Wow! Totally agree…Bless you for speaking out!

  • Julia
    Posted at 14:46h, 15 May

    Thank you! God has truly blessed you with the gift of writing and thank you for using it in this time when everyone has a differing opinion.

  • Lois
    Posted at 16:21h, 15 May

    Couldn’t agree more! These are the exact things we would discuss in our homes. Good bless you for taking courage to publish something that you know may cause others to disagree on.

  • Marlene & Leonard Rutt
    Posted at 19:19h, 15 May

    Thank you for a well written article and for explaining it so well. Our hearts long to follow Jesus and we see the evil so prevalent in our land. May God grant us all courage to follow His way.

  • Lonnie A Gingerich
    Posted at 21:40h, 15 May

    Thank you for this, completely agree!

  • Martin
    Posted at 21:59h, 15 May

    As I have studied several of the Scriptures that speak of our relationship to the governing authorities (Rom. 13, Titus 3, 1 Pet. 2), it appears to me that one of these authorities in place at the time these books were written was Nero. This raises some very sobering questions. I wonder in what way Paul thought he was instituted by God. I wonder what laws were in place that Peter said we should be subject to. What good would Paul and Peter have thought would be accomplished by obeying him? I expect there were many ways in which he was overstepping his authority.

  • Helen Martens
    Posted at 00:17h, 16 May

    Wow! Yes, yes and YESSSS! As I was reading this my head kept nodding in agreement. We were literally JUST talking about all this today, God works in mysterious ways, it is time to take a stand! Thank you so much Cindy!!

  • Kathryn Esh
    Posted at 00:20h, 16 May

    Amen sister!! Thank you so much for sharing

  • Nev
    Posted at 07:29h, 16 May

    Thanks for thinking through tough questions. How does one deal with those powers being an occupying power, actively persecuting Christians, and eventually beheading the writer? From someone still sorting things out.

  • Christine Gingerich
    Posted at 09:39h, 16 May

    This is so well stated, and I couldn’t agree more!! A common-sense and Biblical response to what’s happening in our world…thank you for sharing this!! ?

  • Diane
    Posted at 11:44h, 16 May

    Thank you for your courage in speaking out. I think that without a foundation of TRUTH we are helpless in making good choices for our families or in helping others.

  • Kraig
    Posted at 12:30h, 16 May

    Did Jesus or his disciples ever contest a law that the government passed? While I agree in some measure with what was said, Romans was written under a FAR more corrupt and authoritarian government than we have now. To say that we should not obey when the government is overreaching is ignoring the context in which Romans was written in order to make it say what I wish it to say. I believe it still holds that, even in government “overreach,” we must obey unless it violates our conscience, not just when it is unhandy.

  • Christine
    Posted at 18:11h, 16 May

    So refreshing to hear! I wonder if we were not quarantined for so long how it would look if we could reason together and discuss things like this and get some perspective and move forward and occupy until He comes while on the same page:)

  • Beth
    Posted at 22:44h, 16 May

    This is an interesting view to take on Christians in government. I was remembering the government leaders in Paul’s time, when he was writing the letters to the churches. The Romans were the overarching government of the time. History records that Nero, probably one of the more corrupt leaders of all time was responsible for setting fire to the city of Rome and then blaming it on the Christians. It was also under his rule that Paul was eventually beheaded. In Israel, the religious leaders of the day were very corrupt men as well. And it was in this setting that Paul wrote Romans 13:1-5. It seems clear to me that our obedience to the government, as long as it is not violating God’s law, is not based on how upright that government is. Secondly, in Matthew 23:1-4, Jesus teaches that we need to obey our authorities; even when it is hard. I think you are absolutely correct, Cindy, when you say that we as a church need to care for the hurting and feed the hungry and preach the gospel, and speak out against abortion and human trafficking; but I think that our attitude towards the government also goes a long way in our testimony to the world.

  • Lori Martin
    Posted at 23:34h, 16 May

    God bless you, Cindy! May the church be able to stand, have the stamina of Esther and the the consistency of Daniel! I pray that we will stand against the evil, for Jesus is with us! We will not lose!

  • Steven Stoltzfus
    Posted at 08:47h, 17 May

    thanks for writing . I agree with your post

  • Lisa Miller
    Posted at 08:49h, 17 May

    Wow! I so agree, thanks for saying all of this! Praise God!

  • Lorelle
    Posted at 14:22h, 17 May

    Amen! Thank you for taking the time to share this.

  • Jeff
    Posted at 21:59h, 17 May

    I said something similar recently to a minister and got rebuked for it. Thank you for what you wrote!

  • Miriam
    Posted at 05:33h, 18 May

    Thank you so much for sharing!!!! I strongly believe you are correct in your thoughts and motives of the situation. It’s time we as Christians actually stand up for what is Truth and walk in the Truth (putting into action what we truly believe)
    May God bless you!!! ?

  • Glenda Hoover
    Posted at 07:21h, 18 May

    Thank you for using your gift of writing! These are exact words and thoughts I have had for years! Churches need to lay aside “differences” and be united to stand up for truth! And yes .. we are here “for such a time as this”

  • Sue Esh
    Posted at 09:07h, 18 May

    Thank you so much for sharing what is on your heart! I so agree with every word and I applaud you for being willing to speak it openly! I love how God is working in and through you, Duane and your family! So blessed to call you guys friends!! Many blessings to you and may God give you strength for each day.

  • Cindy Swartzentruber
    Posted at 12:54h, 18 May

    So so true!!! Thanks so much for sharing! This is totally how we’re feeling about all this!! We need to stand up for what’s right! (For Jesus). Thanks again for sharing!!!!

  • Jeremy
    Posted at 19:58h, 18 May

    I like what Martin, Kraig, and Beth said.

  • Josh
    Posted at 00:55h, 19 May

    Thanks for sharing your position, but I can not fully agree. As several others have pointed out, anything we may be facing currently pales in comparison to the oppression the early church faced at the time the passages on our relationship to government were written. I believe your position on not obeying laws where the government has overstepped their bounds is quite valid from a legal perspective; but I’m not sure that we can bring the constitution into a conversation about spiritual matters. What do we do with Jesus’ command to go the extra mile? Roman law stated that a Roman soldier could force a Jew to carry the soldier’s pack for one mile. This was not a very just law, as it temporarily deprived the Jew of his freedom, stealing his time and labor without recompense. But what was Jesus’ command regarding this? He didn’t comment on the injustice of the law, but said go beyond what the law demands and carry the soldier’s pack 2 miles.
    I do fully agree that our health and education are not the responsibility of the state; many of the social programs the state implements are needed as a result of the church not carrying out its responsibility to show Jesus’ love to the world in practical ways.

  • Johnathan
    Posted at 10:52h, 19 May

    I appreciate the perspective. One thing that has helped me think through non-resistance and pacifism is our focus in it. Are we focused on protecting ourselves, or are we loving others around us?

    If an enemy strikes YOU, turn the other cheek. What if the enemy strikes your wife, your children, or somebody else?

    I want to be considering how I can love those around me, and I don’t believe that means standing by and doing nothing. I love the correlation you made to the Good Samaritan story in the Bible.

  • Cindy
    Posted at 15:21h, 19 May

    Thank you for your comment, Kraig. We believe Jesus always blessed the functions of the government (paying tribute to Caesar, etc) when they functioned within their ordained government roles. But we also believe Jesus recognized the specific roles of government, church and personal lives. For instance, there was a direct violation that happened within the temple and He certainly addressed. Why? Buying and selling wasn’t wrong, was it? However, this wasn’t the intended role of the church and should never have been done within the temple. Isn’t that why He addressed it? And wouldn’t Jesus have entered in and addressed the Romans if they would’ve been trying to take the role of the church in dealing with lepers, orphans and widows? Wouldn’t He have spoken out against the church if they were trying to overstep the government and control the taxes? We would tend to think He would. If I (Cindy) would ask our children to go against something my husband wants of them, who should they obey? Me or my husband? I believe they should disobey me and obey my husband’s wishes because God has given him the responsibility of the highest authority within our home. If they disobey me, should they be blamed for doing it simply because it is unhandy to them or because they are choosing to obey only what they want to obey? I truly believe our girls would obey Duane because they desire to be obedient and they would believe they are guilty of a greater sin if they obey me rather than a greater authority. I believe this is the heart of many believers as well, and it’s our choice whether we choose to see Jesus in them. No one wants to rebel and be disobedient. Everyone welcomed the guidance and were willing to comply to the “stay at home” restrictions. However, since it is obvious that this is not about a virus any more but is an attack on our President and religious liberties, this is why we are facing decisions on how we should handle it. We strongly felt led by God to share this message, but are also aware that we are fallible, broken individuals and greatly appreciate your prayers.

  • Cindy
    Posted at 15:28h, 19 May

    Thank you for your comment, Beth. We believe Jesus always blessed the functions of the government (paying tribute to Caesar, etc) when they functioned within their ordained government roles. But we also believe Jesus recognized the specific roles of government, church and personal lives. For instance, there was a direct violation that happened within the temple and He certainly addressed. Why? Buying and selling wasn’t wrong, was it? However, this wasn’t the intended role of the church and should never have been done within the temple. Isn’t that why He addressed it? And wouldn’t Jesus have entered in and addressed the Romans if they would’ve been trying to take the role of the church in dealing with lepers, orphans and widows? Wouldn’t He have spoken out against the church if they were trying to overstep the government and control the taxes? We would tend to think He would…And why was Paul actually beheaded? I think if he would’ve been obedient to the Romans, he would NOT have been imprisoned or beheaded. I also don’t believe any of the disciples would have been killed if they would’ve simply obeyed the government authority and rules of their day…If I (Cindy) would ask our children to go against something my husband wants of them, who should they obey? Me or my husband? I believe they should disobey me and obey my husband’s wishes because God has given him the responsibility of the highest authority within our home. If they disobey me, should they be blamed for doing it simply because it is unhandy to them or because they are choosing to obey only what they want to obey? I truly believe our girls would obey Duane because they desire to be obedient and they would believe they are guilty of a greater sin if they obey me rather than a greater authority. I believe this is the heart of many believers as well, and it’s our choice whether we choose to see Jesus in them. No one wants to rebel and be disobedient. Everyone welcomed the guidance and were willing to comply to the “stay at home” restrictions. However, since it is obvious that this is not about a virus any more but is an attack on our President and religious liberties, this is why we are facing decisions on how we should handle it. We strongly felt led by God to share this message, but are also aware that we are fallible, broken individuals and greatly appreciate your prayers.

  • Cindy
    Posted at 15:32h, 19 May

    Thank you for your comment, Jeremy. We believe Jesus always blessed the functions of the government (paying tribute to Caesar, etc) when they functioned within their ordained government roles. But we also believe Jesus recognized the specific roles of government, church and personal lives. For instance, there was a direct violation that happened within the temple and He certainly addressed. Why? Buying and selling wasn’t wrong, was it? However, this wasn’t the intended role of the church and should never have been done within the temple. Isn’t that why He addressed it? And wouldn’t Jesus have entered in and addressed the Romans if they would’ve been trying to take the role of the church in dealing with lepers, orphans and widows? Wouldn’t He have spoken out against the church if they were trying to overstep the government and control the taxes? We would tend to think He would…And why was Paul actually beheaded? I think if he would’ve been obedient to the Romans, he would NOT have been imprisoned or beheaded. I also don’t believe any of the disciples would have been killed if they would’ve simply obeyed the government authority and rules of their day…If I (Cindy) would ask our children to go against something my husband wants of them, who should they obey? Me or my husband? I believe they should disobey me and obey my husband’s wishes because God has given him the responsibility of the highest authority within our home. If they disobey me, should they be blamed for doing it simply because it is unhandy to them or because they are choosing to obey only what they want to obey? I truly believe our girls would obey Duane because they desire to be obedient and they would believe they are guilty of a greater sin if they obey me rather than a greater authority. I believe this is the heart of many believers as well, and it’s our choice whether we choose to see Jesus in them. No one wants to rebel and be disobedient. Everyone welcomed the guidance and were willing to comply to the “stay at home” restrictions. However, since it is obvious that this is not about a virus any more but is an attack on our President and religious liberties, this is why we are facing decisions on how we should handle it. We strongly felt led by God to share this message, but are also aware that we are fallible, broken individuals and greatly appreciate your prayers.

  • Duane & Cindy
    Posted at 15:35h, 19 May

    Thank you for your comment, Josh. We believe Jesus always blessed the functions of the government (paying tribute to Caesar, etc) when they functioned within their ordained government roles. But we also believe Jesus recognized the specific roles of government, church and personal lives. For instance, there was a direct violation that happened within the temple and He certainly addressed. Why? Buying and selling wasn’t wrong, was it? However, this wasn’t the intended role of the church and should never have been done within the temple. Isn’t that why He addressed it? And wouldn’t Jesus have entered in and addressed the Romans if they would’ve been trying to take the role of the church in dealing with lepers, orphans and widows? Wouldn’t He have spoken out against the church if they were trying to overstep the government and control the taxes? We would tend to think He would…And why was Paul actually beheaded? I think if he would’ve been obedient to the Romans, he would NOT have been imprisoned or beheaded. I also don’t believe any of the disciples would have been killed if they would’ve simply obeyed the government authority and rules of their day…If I (Cindy) would ask our children to go against something my husband wants of them, who should they obey? Me or my husband? I believe they should disobey me and obey my husband’s wishes because God has given him the responsibility of the highest authority within our home. If they disobey me, should they be blamed for doing it simply because it is unhandy to them or because they are choosing to obey only what they want to obey? I truly believe our girls would obey Duane because they desire to be obedient and they would believe they are guilty of a greater sin if they obey me rather than a greater authority. I believe this is the heart of many believers as well, and it’s our choice whether we choose to see Jesus in them. No one wants to rebel and be disobedient. Everyone welcomed the guidance and were willing to comply to the “stay at home” restrictions. However, since it is obvious that this is not about a virus any more but is an attack on our President and religious liberties, this is why we are facing decisions on how we should handle it. We strongly felt led by God to share this message, but are also aware that we are fallible, broken individuals and greatly appreciate your prayers.

  • Cindy
    Posted at 15:45h, 19 May

    Thank you for your comment, Martin. We are certainly still learning and have more questions than answers…Yes, it is interesting to think of the disciples being imprisoned and also beheaded, crucified, etc. It seems logical to us to believe if they would’ve obeyed their authorities, they wouldn’t have faced what they did. I tend to think they were likely also accused of not always being in subjection to authority. They came to the place where they realized they needed to obey God’s greater authority in some areas. The same may come true for us. I believe their hearts and desires were to be submissive and obedient and that is our prayer as well.

  • Havah Lynn
    Posted at 11:06h, 21 May

    Thank-you for this well written and thoughtful response to what is going on.
    Paul used every legal and political advantage afforded to him in the midst of a tyrannical government. Why should we not do the same in a government that’s whole legal system is founded on being governed by us- not by a dictator.?

  • Charlotte
    Posted at 10:35h, 23 May

    I know these are unprecedented times (for our generation), but I must respectfully disagree with you in this instance. And I acknowledge that there is much confusion right now as to who really is my secular authority? The President? or the Governor? or who?? They don’t always agree with each other! I don’t feel that being inactive in politics is ever wrong. Jesus said My Kingdom is not of this world, if it were, my servants would fight…….
    I firmly believe we as Anabaptist Christians have a huge responsibility to PRAY fervently for our leaders in government, and I don’t believe that is inactivity.

  • Cindy
    Posted at 16:42h, 25 May

    Thank you for your comment, Charlotte. We also agree that praying is not being inactive. It should be our first line of defense. We believe the verse about Jesus’ kingdom regarding “not being of this world” means that His kingdom would not originate from the evil world system underlying today’s government. Jesus’ reign restores earth’s governments to God. As believers, we should be honoring our government, but never if it overrides what we believe goes against God’s word. We don’t believe this verse is implying we should not be involved. Our desire is to look at the entire life of Jesus and his disciples and not pulling a verse out of the context of the bigger passage. We see Jesus and His followers as being very involved in the world events and circumstances in their days.

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