From the desk of Pastor Ben

A Lesson on Government and Taxes – Part 4

“Go to the sea and throw in a hook, and take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, you will find a shekel. Take that and give it to them for you and Me.”         (Matthew 17:27b)

Christians do have the right to help change unjust laws or governments as opportunities present themselves. But especially in democracies, major wrongs never derive primarily from bad laws or governments, but from sinful people who disrespect both human and divine law. It’s useless to strive for the reform of evil laws or the removal of corrupt leaders without first seeking to transform the wicked hearts of people in the society.

Like the submissive wife who wants to see her unsaved husband come to Christ (2 Peter 3:1-2), effective witnessing starts with submission. The best example of godly submission is Jesus Himself, who “also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps, who committed no sin, nor was any deceit found in His mouth; and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously.”
(1 Peter 2:21-23)

Jesus committed no sin, in thought or deed, yet He submitted to ungodly religious and political authorities. He accepted unjust abuse so he might better win sinners to Himself — Christ is the role model for everyone who calls Him Lord.

If you are a citizen of God’s kingdom, that does not exempt you from responsibility to human kingdoms, including their tax requirements. By being a good citizen, you demonstrate that you love God as well as your country and fellow citizens. Such testimony compels the watching world to consider the supreme power that makes such love possible.

Ask Yourself:
What are some of the most effective ways to deal with the wicked hearts and corrupted minds of our generation? How can we be praying? Where can we be working? What can we be boldly doing?