RESISTANCE TO GOVERNING AUTHORITIES IN THE FEAR OF GOD; understanding the conditions, character and commitment in resisting authority.

Preached June 5th, 2020 Following the state of California issuing guidelines against the corporate singing of the church.  Biblical Presupposition: God commands Christians to submit to governments and human institutions. (Romans 13:1-7, 1 Peter 2:13-17, Titus 3:1-7, 1 Timothy 2:1–6) · We are not encouraged to protest our government but to pray for them that we might live peaceful quiet lives to the praise of God! · Authority has been instituted by God, it reflects him when good, and contrasts him when evil, it exists by his will and for his purpose. (Romans 13:1, 1 Peter 2:13) · Government and authorities under government, have the purpose of enforcement of the law to preserve the function and understanding of what is good and evil. (Romans 13:2-3, 1 Peter 2:14) · Government is a servant of God for the good of people. Civil and moral stability from the government preserves the understanding of good and bad, preserving the conscience of man. (Romans 13:4-5) · We are to willingly support the government not only in thought but through the paying of taxes. (Romans 13:6-7, Titus 3:1) · We are to function honorably with governing authorities acting respectfully and seeking obedience, and godly character in our actions. (Romans 13:7, 1 Peter 2:16-17, Titus 3:1-2) · We need to be reminded of this (Titus 3:1) and we can function in this knowing it is difficult because we have seen the goodness and loving-kindness of God toward us. (Titus 3:3-4) We are aware that his actions toward a result of what we deserved but out of mercy, and in the abundance of love that secures our eternity. (Titus 3:4-7) THE CONDITIONS OF BIBLICAL RESISTANCE TO GOVERNMENT (Obey God Rather than Men) 1. Commanded they cannot speak the name of Jesus · Acts 4:18–20 (ESV) — · Acts 5:29 (ESV) — 2. Commanded to worship false gods · Daniel 3:14–18 (ESV) — 3. Commanded to suspend worship of God for 30 days · Daniel 6:7–10 (ESV) THE CHARACTER OF BIBLICAL RESISTANCE TO GOVERNMENT. (Godly Character and Humility and Honor) 1. Honor and Respect are due governing authorities · Titus 3:1–2 (ESV) · Daniel 3:16–18 (ESV) · Daniel 6:21 (ESV) THE COMMITMENT OF BIBLICAL RESISTANCE TO GOVERNMENT. (Trust the providence of God boldly proclaiming the Gospel of Christ and in sharing the suffering of Christ.) · Acts 5:30–33 (ESV) · Acts 5:40–42 (ESV) · Daniel 3:16–18 (ESV) · Daniel 3:28–30 (ESV) · Daniel 6:22 (ESV) · Daniel 6:25–26 (ESV)