REVIEW. “What did you take away from last time?” [Refer to last week’s responses.] “How did that go?”

READ.
Romans 13:1-7
13:1 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.

13:2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.

13:3 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.

13:4 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.

13:5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.

13:6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing.

13:7 Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.

Summary:
Submission to (unjust) government is a matter of conscience because it is a reflection of our submission to God's authority.

Discussion Questions:
1. According to Paul and the reason for this letter what threatens unity in the Church? How does submission to the government promote unity?

2. Where does our authority come from? What have we been given authority for? How does submission to the government reinforce that authority?

3. Why is integrity important and how does it add potency to our witness? How does submission to the government build integrity into the gospel we preach?

RESPOND.

“Ask God, how can today’s discussion further your relationship with God, one another, and the world? Pray together. [Record responses and prayer requests.]

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