Why We Shouldn't Rebel Against Government Authority

We so often dwell on everything bad about the government—what we disagree with, the bad choices, etc. that we don’t often take the time to think about the useful and necessary function that governing bodies provide. Useful and necessary functions like providing law and order—the government makes our society function normally, and not descend into chaos. They are here to serve justice inasmuch as it is possible. If we did not have a government structure we would really be in a heap of trouble. Sadly, because of sin and corruption in the world, many would-be criminals are only stopped from committing crimes because they know of the punishment that awaits. Those that do commit the crimes are then punished for what they have done—another important function of government. Therefore, because of these services provided by the government, we need to show them respect. God has placed these people in positions of authority over us for a reason. They are here to do certain jobs for us so that we can focus our energies on witnessing, or on ministering, instead of spending our time living in fear of criminals or defending our justices.

Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor. Romans 13:1-7

Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king. -1 Peter 2:13-17