Let every soul be in subjection to the higher powers: for there is no power but of God; and the powers that be are ordained of God. – Romans 13:1
Paul wrote that “every soul should be in subjection to the higher powers,” but does this include a “higher power” that exists and acts in opposition to God? Is there a case to be made for civil disobedience to authority?
I think there is.
God’s authority supersedes the authority of man. If any authority (which derives the privilege of rule from God) acts in opposition to God’s authority, we (as followers of Christ) are bound to obey the true Sovereign. Of course, this disobedience to an earthly authority should be peaceful and, if punishment results, we must bear it with dignity and the full measure of God’s grace.
I do not know why God allows ungodly authority to exist, but He does. I have seen that sometimes the light shines the clearest and brightest in the deepest darkness. Certainly, we may all agree on this: God’s plans cannot be thwarted and amidst the rise and fall of earthly authority we must (whatever the cost) remain true to Him, for only His truth remains forever.
Man, proud man, dressed in a little brief authority, most ignorant of what he's most assured, glassy essence, like an angry ape, plays such fantastic tricks before high heaven, as make the angels weep. - William Shakespeare
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