Political Authority

When it comes to politics, there is a fine line that must be navigated. Most often it is overlooked if not disregarded altogether. Jesus said to "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's." (Caesar representing government, Matt. 22:21) Clearly the two are separate and at odds. In politics you will have political interest which won’t always be in the interest or will of God. Where man may have his own agenda it still won’t hinder the will of God. Politicians are servants, but not all serve God knowingly or willingly. Our Father is capable and can use even the wicked.

Proverbs 16:4 (NIV) The LORD works out everything for his own ends— even the wicked for a day of disaster.

Our involvement in the political system gives us an opportunity to further the will of God through a vote wrapped in morality and His truth. It provides training and practice in righteousness. In our attention to government, we give diligence in watching for Satan’s attempt at further corruption and installment of his system. Just as the law was given to teach us what sin was, corruption is allowed so we can understand what it looks like. As new situations and things come into being, the face of sinful things and sinful people is harder to recognize.

2 Corinthians 11:14-15 (NIV) And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.

Christ came into the world to destroy the works of Satan. (1 John 3:8) Christians being followers of Christ work to do the same, not with evil but with what is right and good. The directions given by Paul still stand as the best advice for bringing an end to the acts of the wicked.

Romans 12:21 (NIV) Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

By standing on the side of what is good you obey the will of God and those who come to stand on the side of good along with you further glorify God. Everyone who remains in the darkness of evil is seen for what they are. What Satan intended for evil is made good through the Spirit of Righteousness. We serve an all powerful God and His power has already defeated the devil; we need only to resist him and he will flee.

For more on the subject of Authority go to:

http://mattmilamii.multiply.com/journal/item/1/January_15_2009_---_HIS_AUTHORITY

Blessings,
Matt.