Does faith have anything to do with politics, and what do you do when the people in power are hard to respect? This sermon turns to Romans 13, written to Christians living under Nero, and shows why Paul frames the whole conversation about government with a call to love your enemies. It asks pointed questions about speeding tickets, taxes and online complaining, and it marks the line where obedience to people gives way to obedience to God. Listen if you want to stop resting your hope on election results.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- Paul tells the Romans that every authority comes from God, even though Nero, a persecutor of Christians, was on the throne at the time. What does that tell us about how to understand Romans 13:1-7?
- According to the sermon, why does it matter that chapter 13 comes right after the call in chapter 12 to feed your enemy and overcome evil with good?
- The speaker said that knowing God is in control of those in power brings relief, because God will hold rulers accountable. How does this truth shape the way you feel about politics and those who govern?
- The sermon told of a pastor who, instead of slowing down, peeled the Christian fish sticker off his car. In what small matters do you find it hardest to submit, and how do you justify yourself then?
- Paul places the law of love above all others, and Daniel kept praying despite the king's decree. How can we recognize the moment when obeying God requires resisting a human law?
- Paul calls us to wake from sleep and put on the armor of light. In what concrete way can you be a light this week as a citizen, at work, or in your city?
