Week 10 | Day 5
Christian Citizenship
Romans 13:1-7
Paul’s counsel about civic life in Romans 13:1–7 was given when Christians faced suspicion but not yet Nero’s fury. His charge is steady and simple—because God is sovereign over every human authority, believers should honor leaders, obey just laws, pay what is owed, and contribute good to the common life. Lived this way, citizenship becomes a credible witness to the gospel—whatever party holds power, whatever moment we’re in.
Application
1. Remember Who Reigns
No leader sits above God’s authority or beyond His providence (see Romans 13:1). This anchors our hope, tempers our fears, and charges us to me faithful, biblical, and engaged citizens.
2. Practice Everyday Faithfulness
Be honest, law-abiding, and dependable; pay your taxes and debts—and always show respect in tone and deed. Quiet integrity is loud evangelism.
3. Pray for Those in Authority
Intercede for wisdom, justice, and peace so that “we may lead a peaceful and quiet life” (see 1 Timothy 2:1–2). Prayer is not passivity; it’s Kingdom participation.
4. Engage without Becoming What You Oppose
Stand for what is true and good, yet do so in ways that honor Christ—truthful, peaceable, and clean-handed. We cannot become sin to address sin (see Romans 12:17–21).
5. Participate with a Formed Conscience
In societies where we can speak, serve, and vote, do so thoughtfully: weigh platforms and character, seek the good of neighbor, and let Scripture, prayer, and love guide your choices. And remember, no candidate is perfect. No candidate is Jesus. Thus, you will always be voting for the lesson of two evils. Therefore, pursue what most reflects justice, mercy, and truth.
6. Be a Public Blessing
Seek the shalom of your city. Volunteer, give, advocate for the vulnerable, and pursue peace with everyone as far as it depends on you.
No leader sits above God’s authority or beyond His providence (see Romans 13:1). This anchors our hope, tempers our fears, and charges us to me faithful, biblical, and engaged citizens.
2. Practice Everyday Faithfulness
Be honest, law-abiding, and dependable; pay your taxes and debts—and always show respect in tone and deed. Quiet integrity is loud evangelism.
3. Pray for Those in Authority
Intercede for wisdom, justice, and peace so that “we may lead a peaceful and quiet life” (see 1 Timothy 2:1–2). Prayer is not passivity; it’s Kingdom participation.
4. Engage without Becoming What You Oppose
Stand for what is true and good, yet do so in ways that honor Christ—truthful, peaceable, and clean-handed. We cannot become sin to address sin (see Romans 12:17–21).
5. Participate with a Formed Conscience
In societies where we can speak, serve, and vote, do so thoughtfully: weigh platforms and character, seek the good of neighbor, and let Scripture, prayer, and love guide your choices. And remember, no candidate is perfect. No candidate is Jesus. Thus, you will always be voting for the lesson of two evils. Therefore, pursue what most reflects justice, mercy, and truth.
6. Be a Public Blessing
Seek the shalom of your city. Volunteer, give, advocate for the vulnerable, and pursue peace with everyone as far as it depends on you.
Closing Prayer
Lord, I pray for my nation today, For the president, for congress, for my state and local leaders. I pray for Your moving in their lives today. I pray for godly men and women to have influence over the ungodly, I pray for You to provide wisdom and sensibility to every elected and non-elected official that they will do what is right for the whole instead of what is expedient and profitable for themselves. I pray for a nation that bends its knees and bows its heart to You --- trusting in You instead of in itself or any unspiritual spirit. Above all, I pray for myself that I will represent You will in the public square and that I will do what is right, good, and godly to influence others to You. Amen.