Friday, November 2, 2007
1 Peter 2:13-17 Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake, whether to the king as supreme, or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men -- as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God. Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.
EXAMPLES FROM THE REFORMATION: ELECTOR FREDRICK THE WISE
He was the "elector" of Saxony, but would probably be called a governor today. We know Fredrick the Wise as the noble ruler who wanted Martin Luther to teach at his new University in Wittenberg. He was a man who took his God-given responsibility to his subjects seriously. He protected Martin Luther when commanded to give him up to certain death. He showed integrity and refused to be bribed when offered the golden rose by Pope Leo X. He is a fine example of a Christian ruler who was concerned for the welfare of his subjects.
While many today think it is nothing to speak evil of those placed over us in government, we would do well to pray for them. As Christian men and women, we will respect those in authority for their God given office, even though we may not agree with their ungodly views or lives. As Christian citizens we will be obedient to the laws of the land, provided we are not commanded to disobey God's word.
When our fellow citizens see our good conduct, our Savior will be glorified. God help us to use our freedom to glorify Him! God grant us His grace that He provide us with godly rulers, like Elector Fredrick the Wise.
The powers ordained by Thee With heavenly wisdom bless;
May they Thy servants be And rule in righteousness!
O Lord, stretch forth Thy mighty hand
And guard and bless our fatherland.
(The Lutheran Hymnal, 580:4)
