Unpacking Romans 13 with Chris Nye | Episode 278

What does it mean to "submit to governing authorities" — and does that command require Christians to accept whatever their government does without question? I sat down with Chris Nye, lead pastor of Imago Dei Community in Portland, Oregon, to take a closer look at one of the most frequently cited — and frequently misused — passages in political discourse: Romans 13:1. From immigration enforcement to protests in the streets, this text keeps resurfacing, often wielded as a call for unconditional obedience to whoever holds power. Chris argues that reading Romans 13 in isolation misses the point entirely. Placed within the sweep of Paul's letter — and alongside 1 Peter — a richer picture emerges: one built on a higher law of God, a coming judgment, and a vision of the church as a holy nation that transcends any political order. Shownotes: Chris Nye's website   Donate to Church and Main Church and Main Substack Join the Church and Main Email List [email protected] Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube