Text: ROMANS 13: 1-7 & TITUS 3:1-2
By: Bro. Afekolu, Chris (Bishop)
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PREAMBLE
Christian civic responsibility involves actively participating in society and fulfilling one’s duties as a citizen while upholding Christian values and principles. This includes obeying laws, respecting authorities, and contributing to the well-being of the community. Christians are also called to be a positive influence in society by promoting justice, mercy, and love.
Christians are encouraged to be active participants in their communities, contributing to the common good of the people. Jeremiah 29:7 advises the exiles in Babylon, “Seek the prosperity of the city to which I have sent you as exiles. Pray to the LORD on its behalf, for if it prospers, you too will prosper.” This directive suggests that believers should work towards the welfare of their society, recognizing that their well-being is intertwined with that of their community.
Furthermore, Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 22:21 provides a framework for balancing civic and spiritual obligations: “Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” This statement implies that while Christians have duties to the state, such as paying taxes and obeying laws, their ultimate devotion belongs to God.
Key aspects of Christian civic responsibility
Christians are called to be law-abiding citizens, respecting the governing authorities as ordained by God. In general, Christians must be good citizens who submit to the ruling authorities that God has ordained (Romans 13:1). They are placed for the specific purpose of punishing evil doers and protecting the righteous (Romans 13:4). To rebel against these ruling authorities is to rebel against the God who ordained them (Romans 13:2).
This includes showing respect for those in positions of leadership and authority, both in the church and in the wider society.
Christians are encouraged to work towards the prosperity and well-being of their communities, recognizing that their own welfare is intertwined with that of their society (Jeremiah 29:7).
- Engaging in the Political Process:
This can include voting, advocating for just laws, and holding public office, all while striving to be a positive influence in the political sphere. Staying informed about social and political issues allows citizens to make informed decisions and participate effectively in their communities. When individuals fulfill their civic responsibilities, it strengthens democracy, promotes social cohesion, and contributes to a more just and equitable society,
Christians are called to care for the poor, the sick, and the marginalized, reflecting Christ’s example of love and compassion. Volunteering time and skills to help others and improve the community, such as through tutoring, serving meals, or participating in environmental clean-ups.
- Speaking Truth and Justice:
Christians have a responsibility to speak out against injustice, promote righteousness, and advocate for policies that align with biblical principles. Working towards a more equitable society by addressing issues of inequality and injustice.
This includes praying for those in positions of authority, seeking God’s guidance for them and for the well-being of the nation. Prayer is a vital aspect of balancing faith and civic duty. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 urges believers, “First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered for everyone—for kings and all those in authority—so that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity.” Through prayer, Christians can seek divine guidance for their leaders and the wisdom to fulfill their civic responsibilities in a manner that honors God.
- Being a Light in the World:
Christians are called to be a positive influence in their communities, demonstrating God’s love and grace through their actions and words. Christians are called to be salt and light in the world, influencing society through their conduct and testimony. Matthew 5:13-16 encourages believers to let their light shine before others, “that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” We are to not be conformed to this wicked and perverse generation but be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2). We are to be salt and light so that men might see our good works and give glory to our Father who is in heaven (Matthew 5:16).
PAUL’S PEN PICTURE ON HOW CHRISTIANS MUST FUNCTION EXTERNALLY (CRETANS MODEL) – TITUS 3:1-2
Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men. (Titus 3:1-2 NKJV).
Here we see why Paul is reminding the Cretans to be submissive and obedient to ruling authorities: so that they will be ready for every good work.
Paul says that CHRISTIANS must live their lives doing works that are intrinsically wonderful and beautiful, works that mirror God’s very good creation (Genesis 1:31).
The unbelieving world will certainly see these good works and be forced to give credit (or glory) to our God who is in heaven (Matthew 5:16). The purpose of being good, humble, and submissive citizens is to give the gospel of Jesus Christ credibility. Being ready to do good works assumes that we are actively seeking ways to benefit society at large.
Under no circumstance should any Christian be involved in defamation, reviling, or slandering another human being. Yes, it’s that simple. In short, Christians must be those who get along with their neighbors and are not known as troublemakers.
Christians must not only be humble and submissive citizens but must also be humble and considerate neighbors. Our lives must accurately reflect the gospel that we preach.
In short, this passage is a reminder to the Cretan Christians and extension Christians to willingly pay their taxes, obey the law, be gracious and peaceable with our neighbors, and actively seek what benefits others. When the government orders something that will benefit our fellow men, Christians should be first in line to obey. When our neighbors require a model of benevolence and humility, Christians should stand out as the obvious example to follow. But all of this is only a precursor, a platform, and a preliminary to the preaching of the gospel (Titus 3:3-7).
BALANCING FAITH AND CIVIC RESPONSIBILITIES
The relationship between faith and civic duty is a topic of significant importance within Christian thought, as believers seek to navigate their responsibilities to both God and government. The Bible provides guidance on how Christians can honor their faith while fulfilling their obligations as citizens.
The Bible acknowledges the existence of earthly authorities and
the believer’s duty to respect and obey them. Romans 13:1-2 states, “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” This passage underscores the belief that governmental structures are part of God’s divine order, and Christians are called to respect and submit to them.
However, the Bible also emphasizes the supremacy of God’s authority. Acts 5:29 records the apostles’ response to the Sanhedrin: “But Peter and the other apostles replied, ‘We must obey God rather than men.'” This highlights the principle that when human laws conflict with God’s commands, believers must prioritize their allegiance to God. Balancing faith and civic duty can present challenges, particularly when societal values deviate from biblical principles. In such instances, Christians must rely on discernment and the guidance of the Holy Spirit to navigate these tensions. The early church faced similar challenges, as seen in the book of Acts, where believers often had to choose between obeying God and conforming to societal pressures.
Ultimately, the Bible provides a framework for Christians to engage with the world responsibly, honoring both their faith and their civic duties. By seeking God’s wisdom and maintaining a Christ-centered perspective, believers can navigate the complexities of this dual allegiance
CONCLUSION
In essence, civic responsibility is about being a good and engaged citizen, contributing to the overall well-being of the community through both voluntary actions and upholding ethical standards without deviation from the biblical principles or Christian virtues.
By living out their faith authentically, Christians can positively impact their communities and bear witness to the transformative power of the Gospel.
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