Take Two: Romans 13, Proverbs 20

Chapter 13 simpy fits into the current flow of thought from Paul...and includes some very practical instruction. In chapter 10, we see that everyone who calls on the Name of the Lord shall be saved...but to call, they must believe...and to believe, they must hear...and to hear, someone must tell them...and to tell them, someone must be sent. Chapter 11 speaks of God's continued affection and purpose for Israel and how God is using the current circumstances of the day to draw--not only Israel, but also the nations to Himself. In Chapter 12 we see that it is only fitting for us to renew our minds (think as God thinks) and surrender ourselves over to the Lord for His service.

Now Ch.13 shows us practically how we can live "missionally" daily, so our message can be heard.

Vv.1-7 tell us how to relate to the government. We are to obey the laws and render taxes, customs, respect (fear), and honor to those people and institutions which govern. Yes...Christians are to obey non-Christian leaders because their office is ordained by God and they would not be in their role without God's permission (for His greater purpose). I suppose that this was a hard word for Paul's crowd. They were believers, many of whom were of Jewish descent...living in the Roman Empire, which came to be by oppressing and occupying their (Israel's) land. Imagine living in a society where non-Christian leaders made laws and implemented policies that did not reflect your values as a Christian. WAIT! Don't imagine...look around. Welcome to modern-day America. Paul said...live according to the laws in the land where you live and give no offense in the way you live. God is in control.

Vv. 8-10, Love one another. Not only other believers, but care for your fellow man. Live right... not only according to the law, but also according to the Law of God- "love your neighbor as yourself." It is my contention that when people have to turn to the government for adjudication of right and wrong, to have their basic needs met, and to feel valued...government (rather than the Christ we serve) gains their allegience.

Vv.9-14, Why would we honor authority and love our neighbor? Why live so radically "abandoned" before God? Because the Day of Christ is drawing near. We are living in an era of a countdown clock...and lives are at stake. Everyone around us is at risk, and God has given us today to help them come to faith...to win their souls...to see them set free and become followers of Christ. We MUST make the most of every opportunity.

Proverbs 20:25 is the takeaway today. "It is a trap for a man to say rashly, "It is holy!" And after the vows to make inquiry." Our commitments before the Lord are incredible times that promote victory (by providing accountability in our hearts); or, if entered into lightly, "trap" us in a cycle of guilt and condemnation.

God desires for us to recognize His leading in our lives and to trust Him to follow...even when it is difficult or uncomfortable. We are not called to commit to Him and His purpose rashly. Making a commitment or a vow to the Lord is a serious thing. When a person becomes a "follower" of Christ (a Christian), he or she commits to being obedient in every area of his or her life. It is never a question to ask, "I wonder if I as a "disciple" should obey Christ in this area?" The answer is always, "Yes." Also as a Christ follower, there are times when God's purpose is specifically revealed to us. "You...do this, commit this, pledge this, step out and volunteer for this." When we feel a leading in these areas (that may not be specifically applied to us in the Scripture)...we must soberly (with thoughtfulness) enter into those commitments with God. To rush in and make a commitment that is not of God...is to ultimately become disobedient...or to dishonor God in committing and then not fulfilling.

Grace,