Mark 12:17 ESV
“Well, then,” Jesus said, “give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.”
How does Jesus’ teaching here shape our understanding of financial responsibility and submission to authority?
How does this apply to modern discussions about taxation and government?
Romans 13:1-7 NLT
Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you. The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid, for they have the power to punish you. They are God’s servants, sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong. So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience. Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons. For government workers need to be paid. They are serving God in what they do. Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority.
Why does Paul say that governing authorities are “established by God”?
What are the practical ways we can apply this passage in our daily lives, even when we disagree with political leaders?
1 Peter 2:13-17
For the Lord’s sake, submit to all human authority—whether the king as head of state, or the officials he has appointed. For the king has sent them to punish those who do wrong and to honor those who do right. It is God’s will that your honorable lives should silence those ignorant people who make foolish accusations against you. For you are free, yet you are God’s slaves, so don’t use your freedom as an excuse to do evil. Respect everyone, and love the family of believers. Fear God, and respect the king.
What does it mean to be free, yet use your freedom as an excuse to do evil?
How do we balance submission with our ultimate allegiance to God?
Proverbs 24:21 NLT
My child, fear the Lord and the king. Don’t associate with rebels, for disaster will hit them suddenly. Who knows what punishment will come from the Lord and the king?
Ecclesiastes 8:2-5 NLT
Obey the king since you vowed to God that you would. Don’t try to avoid doing your duty, and don’t stand with those who plot evil, for the king can do whatever he wants. His command is backed by great power. No one can resist or question it. Those who obey him will not be punished. Those who are wise will find a time and a way to do what is right, for there is a time and a way for everything, even when a person is in trouble.
How do these passages help us understand the biblical basis for honoring leaders?
When, If Ever, Should Christians Disobey the Government? Are there biblical examples of righteous civil disobedience?
Exodus 1:15-21 NLT
Then Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, gave this order to the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah: “When you help the Hebrew women as they give birth, watch as they deliver. If the baby is a boy, kill him; if it is a girl, let her live.” But because the midwives feared God, they refused to obey the king’s orders. They allowed the boys to live, too. So the king of Egypt called for the midwives. “Why have you done this?” he demanded. “Why have you allowed the boys to live?” “The Hebrew women are not like the Egyptian women,” the midwives replied. “They are more vigorous and have their babies so quickly that we cannot get there in time.” So God was good to the midwives, and the Israelites continued to multiply, growing more and more powerful. And because the midwives feared God, he gave them families of their own.
Can you think of other instances? (hint: Daniel 3:16-18, Acts 5:27-29)
So, there IS Biblical precedent for civil disobedience… What is the principle for doing so?
Do we have to make that decision in some ways today? How?
Can you see a time when that might happen in America? What do you think believers will do?
What are some biblical ways to engage in advocacy, peaceful protest, or reform while still honoring authority?
1 Timothy 2:1-2 NLT
I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.
How does this verse challenge us? What should we do about it?
How do we maintain a Christ-like attitude toward corrupt or unjust leaders?
9. If we are commanded to pay taxes (Romans 13:6-7), how should we view taxation that funds things we morally oppose?
• How do we reconcile being good stewards of our money with submitting to the government’s tax system?
Philippians 3:20 NLT
But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior.
How do we balance being citizens of heaven while still being responsible citizens on earth?
What mindset should we have toward political involvement, civic duties, and cultural engagement as Christians?