Testimony By Submission to Government

Believer’s testimony of Jesus Christ includes how life is lived out amidst a world of ungodliness. In particular instruction is given in regard to the fact of and importance for submission by believers to unbelievers because of their position. God’s established order in society, in the workplace, and in the home are cited as areas where submission is not only a matter of ultimately being obedience to God but is also a testimony of a right relationship with God. Believers obey the laws of the land and those in authority as being in such positions as having been divinely appointed. Motivation for obedience and submission is to do the will of God and to give the unbeliever no excuse or cause for having a just criticism of believers. Believer’s criticism of government authorities is criticism of God’s appointments and purposes being accomplished even through those who are unbelievers.