WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:12.160 If you were asked by someone, tell me a leader, tell me someone that you're aware of, you've 00:00:12.160 --> 00:00:21.280 read about from history, from today, who has made an important or memorable political statement. 00:00:23.820 --> 00:00:26.160 Don't answer out loud, but who comes to mind? 00:00:26.460 --> 00:00:27.219 Think about it for a moment. 00:00:27.219 --> 00:00:32.320 Who has made a statement that really got your attention? 00:00:32.659 --> 00:00:40.600 It said something of substance about, it was a political statement. 00:00:42.239 --> 00:00:46.200 Well, I'm thinking a lot of people in this room, you're thinking of a president of the 00:00:46.200 --> 00:00:49.500 United States, maybe some other politician. 00:00:50.700 --> 00:00:54.239 I think of Ronald Reagan about memorable statements. 00:00:54.240 --> 00:00:58.940 A writer or a historian, some of you may be thinking. 00:01:00.280 --> 00:01:03.460 I used to read the column of William Buckley a lot. 00:01:04.859 --> 00:01:08.719 I've read some of his articles, some of the articles in the National Review, the magazine 00:01:08.719 --> 00:01:10.320 he founded many years ago. 00:01:10.319 --> 00:01:19.739 As you think about people, leaders of whatever, from whatever background, who have made memorable, 00:01:19.959 --> 00:01:23.099 important political statements. 00:01:24.099 --> 00:01:25.979 Did Jesus come to mind? 00:01:25.980 --> 00:01:34.859 He really would not be high on most people's lists of political statements. 00:01:35.359 --> 00:01:37.700 Because that's not why he came into this world. 00:01:39.159 --> 00:01:45.800 But, Kent Hughes, a pastor and author, says that we should think of Jesus. 00:01:45.799 --> 00:01:52.799 And he points to a statement that Jesus made in response to a question about paying taxes. 00:01:54.140 --> 00:01:55.120 Look at this. 00:01:55.319 --> 00:01:57.000 It's from Matthew chapter 22. 00:01:58.039 --> 00:02:00.179 Here was the question Jesus was asked. 00:02:00.979 --> 00:02:03.340 Tell us then, what do you think? 00:02:03.819 --> 00:02:08.460 Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not? 00:02:10.539 --> 00:02:11.840 Look at the response. 00:02:11.840 --> 00:02:17.340 But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, 00:02:18.000 --> 00:02:20.980 Why put me to the test, you hypocrites? 00:02:21.860 --> 00:02:23.599 Show me the coin for the tax. 00:02:24.180 --> 00:02:25.599 And they brought him a denarius. 00:02:26.480 --> 00:02:27.500 And Jesus said to them, 00:02:27.800 --> 00:02:30.120 Whose likeness and inscription is this? 00:02:30.659 --> 00:02:32.500 And they said, Caesar's. 00:02:33.120 --> 00:02:34.099 Then he said to them, 00:02:34.420 --> 00:02:38.259 Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, 00:02:38.259 --> 00:02:42.759 And to God the things that are God's. 00:02:43.840 --> 00:02:46.739 And Hughes says that last statement, you see right there on the screen. 00:02:47.539 --> 00:02:50.479 Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's. 00:02:50.840 --> 00:02:53.319 And to God the things that are God's. 00:02:53.819 --> 00:02:58.319 He says that's the most important political statement ever made for this reason. 00:02:58.659 --> 00:02:58.959 Look. 00:02:58.960 --> 00:03:01.280 With this single sentence, 00:03:01.800 --> 00:03:05.560 Our Lord established the validity of human government, 00:03:06.040 --> 00:03:10.360 While at the same time setting its limits. 00:03:11.640 --> 00:03:13.540 Jesus, in that statement, 00:03:14.760 --> 00:03:15.659 Makes it clear. 00:03:16.219 --> 00:03:18.219 Human government has a place in this world. 00:03:18.379 --> 00:03:19.120 It is important. 00:03:20.219 --> 00:03:22.379 We need to recognize that. 00:03:23.840 --> 00:03:25.000 Submit to that. 00:03:25.000 --> 00:03:28.480 Even Jesus paid taxes. 00:03:28.960 --> 00:03:34.800 But human government is limited government. 00:03:35.600 --> 00:03:40.140 It is limited under God who has ordained it. 00:03:40.219 --> 00:03:42.460 We'll look at a little bit about that a little bit later. 00:03:43.540 --> 00:03:47.800 Our country right now is in desperate need of a reminder, 00:03:48.040 --> 00:03:49.080 Or for some people, 00:03:49.360 --> 00:03:53.000 An introduction to the importance of recognizing 00:03:53.000 --> 00:03:56.759 And respecting authority in general. 00:03:56.759 --> 00:04:01.939 And the authority of government in particular. 00:04:03.060 --> 00:04:06.080 Now, what we're going to do in this message this morning, 00:04:06.180 --> 00:04:07.300 That means, 00:04:08.099 --> 00:04:13.599 It's important for us to show respect to our government leaders, 00:04:13.599 --> 00:04:16.719 And law enforcement officers, 00:04:16.719 --> 00:04:19.439 Who are agents of our government, 00:04:20.240 --> 00:04:24.680 Charged with the responsibility of enforcing the laws in our country. 00:04:24.680 --> 00:04:27.079 Now, where that comes from, 00:04:27.079 --> 00:04:28.680 In scripture, 00:04:28.980 --> 00:04:30.480 Is going to be very clear. 00:04:30.720 --> 00:04:31.680 It's Romans 13. 00:04:32.480 --> 00:04:35.480 Romans 13 provides the most detailed statement, 00:04:35.860 --> 00:04:36.879 Or description, 00:04:37.360 --> 00:04:38.800 Of the authority of government, 00:04:38.920 --> 00:04:40.060 That you'll find anywhere in the Bible. 00:04:40.819 --> 00:04:42.519 The most detailed description. 00:04:43.399 --> 00:04:44.319 And I want us to look at it. 00:04:44.519 --> 00:04:46.379 The first five verses of Romans 13. 00:04:46.379 --> 00:04:48.879 Paul is writing, 00:04:48.879 --> 00:04:53.040 Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. 00:04:53.659 --> 00:04:56.120 For there is no authority except from God. 00:04:56.540 --> 00:04:59.639 And those that exist have been instituted by God. 00:05:00.459 --> 00:05:02.819 Therefore, whoever resists the authorities, 00:05:03.500 --> 00:05:05.860 Resists what God has appointed. 00:05:06.519 --> 00:05:09.079 And those who resist will incur judgment. 00:05:09.920 --> 00:05:13.040 For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, 00:05:13.699 --> 00:05:14.740 But to bad. 00:05:14.740 --> 00:05:17.699 Would you have no fear of the one in authority? 00:05:18.480 --> 00:05:20.019 Then do what is good, 00:05:20.780 --> 00:05:22.439 And you'll receive his approval. 00:05:22.939 --> 00:05:25.519 For he is God's servant for your good. 00:05:25.900 --> 00:05:28.139 But if you do wrong, be afraid. 00:05:28.759 --> 00:05:31.280 For he does not bear the sword in vain. 00:05:31.699 --> 00:05:33.500 For he is the servant of God, 00:05:33.939 --> 00:05:38.360 An avenger who carries out God's wrath on the wrongdoer. 00:05:39.079 --> 00:05:41.680 Therefore, one must be in subjection, 00:05:41.860 --> 00:05:43.980 Not only to avoid God's wrath, 00:05:43.980 --> 00:05:47.140 But also for the sake of conscience. 00:05:48.860 --> 00:05:50.780 This passage, as you see, 00:05:51.500 --> 00:05:56.280 It explains the God-given authority of human government, 00:05:57.040 --> 00:06:00.640 And our responsibility to submit to it, 00:06:01.140 --> 00:06:03.300 And even support it. 00:06:04.020 --> 00:06:04.740 Let's look at it. 00:06:04.860 --> 00:06:08.520 First, God calls us to submit to governmental authority. 00:06:09.120 --> 00:06:10.620 Paul gives us two reasons. 00:06:11.140 --> 00:06:12.879 Let's look at the first one in verses 1 and 2. 00:06:12.879 --> 00:06:16.259 The authority of government has been established by God. 00:06:17.139 --> 00:06:18.980 The authority of government, 00:06:19.079 --> 00:06:20.560 The authority of the state, 00:06:21.019 --> 00:06:22.439 Has been established by God. 00:06:22.879 --> 00:06:26.620 Look at how strongly Paul makes that point. 00:06:27.219 --> 00:06:27.879 First, 00:06:28.300 --> 00:06:30.759 For there is no authority except from God. 00:06:31.480 --> 00:06:31.939 Then, 00:06:32.259 --> 00:06:35.100 Those that exist have been instituted by God. 00:06:35.819 --> 00:06:36.500 And number three, 00:06:36.959 --> 00:06:38.879 Therefore, whoever resists the authorities, 00:06:40.040 --> 00:06:42.079 Resists what God has appointed. 00:06:42.079 --> 00:06:46.079 These statements are clear that God has called everyone, 00:06:48.079 --> 00:06:49.000 Everyone, 00:06:49.800 --> 00:06:52.099 To be submissive to governmental authority. 00:06:52.539 --> 00:06:53.879 Now that includes for us, 00:06:53.919 --> 00:06:54.860 We can think about it like this. 00:06:55.039 --> 00:06:56.360 We need to obey the law of the land. 00:06:58.279 --> 00:07:00.060 We need to know what the laws are, 00:07:00.740 --> 00:07:02.319 And we need to obey them. 00:07:02.539 --> 00:07:03.060 Obey them. 00:07:03.860 --> 00:07:05.120 We don't have to lock them all. 00:07:05.879 --> 00:07:07.579 We don't have to agree with them all. 00:07:07.579 --> 00:07:10.219 Obeying the laws of the land. 00:07:10.379 --> 00:07:15.479 It also means submitting to the authority of those who enforce the laws, 00:07:16.579 --> 00:07:19.279 Like law enforcement officers, 00:07:20.860 --> 00:07:21.639 Judges, 00:07:22.639 --> 00:07:27.099 And anyone else who is charged with the responsibility of enforcing the law. 00:07:27.100 --> 00:07:27.820 Now, 00:07:28.260 --> 00:07:29.100 I know, 00:07:29.100 --> 00:07:29.620 I know, 00:07:30.220 --> 00:07:32.100 That the idea of submitting to authority, 00:07:33.100 --> 00:07:33.900 Like this, 00:07:34.180 --> 00:07:36.120 The authority of law enforcement officers, 00:07:36.480 --> 00:07:39.400 That's not a popular subject right now. 00:07:40.480 --> 00:07:44.960 Many people have responded to the abuse of authority, 00:07:44.959 --> 00:07:47.339 By a few officers, 00:07:48.000 --> 00:07:52.199 By rebelling against all authority. 00:07:53.879 --> 00:07:57.000 So I want us to just deal with the question right here and there. 00:07:57.719 --> 00:08:01.779 What should we do with government or law enforcement officers, 00:08:02.139 --> 00:08:04.120 Who abuse their authority? 00:08:05.599 --> 00:08:06.699 What should we do? 00:08:07.359 --> 00:08:09.079 We see what's happening throughout our country. 00:08:09.079 --> 00:08:09.959 Well, 00:08:09.959 --> 00:08:12.979 I want us to understand this is not a new problem. 00:08:14.139 --> 00:08:16.939 This is not a new question that people, 00:08:17.240 --> 00:08:18.500 And especially Christians, 00:08:18.899 --> 00:08:20.399 Have asked. 00:08:21.199 --> 00:08:28.399 Paul wrote this while living under a Roman government that was hostile to Christianity. 00:08:29.519 --> 00:08:34.480 Paul didn't know what it was like to live in a government for the people, 00:08:34.579 --> 00:08:35.179 By the people, 00:08:35.340 --> 00:08:36.139 Something like that. 00:08:36.139 --> 00:08:39.480 Nero was the Roman emperor. 00:08:40.580 --> 00:08:42.000 He is known, 00:08:42.159 --> 00:08:45.240 Notorious for ordering the persecution of Christians. 00:08:46.100 --> 00:08:47.299 Paul even died, 00:08:47.960 --> 00:08:49.059 Most likely, 00:08:49.279 --> 00:08:50.519 Tradition tells us, 00:08:50.819 --> 00:08:52.620 Under that kind of persecution. 00:08:54.080 --> 00:08:55.139 Throughout history, 00:08:55.779 --> 00:09:00.620 Human government has failed to be just and good, 00:09:01.480 --> 00:09:03.519 Probably more times than not. 00:09:03.519 --> 00:09:07.819 I think the former chaplain of the U.S. Senate, 00:09:08.639 --> 00:09:09.960 Richard Halverson, 00:09:10.519 --> 00:09:12.279 Helps us to answer the question, 00:09:12.379 --> 00:09:12.779 Excuse me. 00:09:15.639 --> 00:09:17.519 What about when authority is abused? 00:09:19.319 --> 00:09:20.439 Look at what he said. 00:09:21.519 --> 00:09:22.299 To be sure, 00:09:22.980 --> 00:09:26.199 Men will abuse and misuse the institution of the state, 00:09:26.200 --> 00:09:27.560 Just as man, 00:09:27.660 --> 00:09:28.560 Because of sin, 00:09:28.940 --> 00:09:32.600 Has abused and misused every other institution in history, 00:09:33.060 --> 00:09:35.240 Including the church of Jesus Christ. 00:09:35.759 --> 00:09:38.500 But this does not mean that the institution is bad, 00:09:39.020 --> 00:09:40.640 Or that it should be forsaken. 00:09:41.259 --> 00:09:43.220 It simply means that men are sinners, 00:09:43.640 --> 00:09:45.660 And rebels in God's world, 00:09:46.320 --> 00:09:48.259 And this is the way they behave, 00:09:48.680 --> 00:09:50.200 With good institutions. 00:09:50.200 --> 00:09:51.840 As a matter of fact, 00:09:52.120 --> 00:09:54.200 It is because of this very sin, 00:09:54.540 --> 00:09:57.259 That there must be human government, 00:09:57.580 --> 00:09:58.940 To maintain order, 00:09:59.700 --> 00:10:01.879 Until the final and ultimate rule, 00:10:01.980 --> 00:10:04.220 Of Jesus Christ is established. 00:10:05.680 --> 00:10:06.280 Let's think, 00:10:07.280 --> 00:10:09.900 Even though some governmental authorities, 00:10:10.900 --> 00:10:15.200 Have failed to administer justice properly, 00:10:15.200 --> 00:10:16.120 Properly. 00:10:16.120 --> 00:10:19.140 The solution is not, 00:10:19.720 --> 00:10:22.200 To reject all government authority. 00:10:23.100 --> 00:10:25.060 That would result in chaos, 00:10:26.180 --> 00:10:27.580 In lawlessness, 00:10:28.500 --> 00:10:29.860 In violence, 00:10:30.580 --> 00:10:32.580 And that's anarchy. 00:10:34.600 --> 00:10:36.640 Over the last month or so, 00:10:37.640 --> 00:10:40.160 We have seen what happens, 00:10:41.000 --> 00:10:43.180 When the police and National Guard, 00:10:43.179 --> 00:10:44.519 Are either not able, 00:10:44.639 --> 00:10:45.759 Or not allowed, 00:10:46.819 --> 00:10:48.519 To keep law and order. 00:10:49.859 --> 00:10:51.059 We have seen, 00:10:51.179 --> 00:10:52.459 Angry mobs, 00:10:53.799 --> 00:10:54.399 Riot, 00:10:55.239 --> 00:10:56.099 In the streets, 00:10:56.859 --> 00:10:58.479 Burn down buildings, 00:10:59.599 --> 00:11:01.219 Loot stores, 00:11:02.319 --> 00:11:03.099 And injure, 00:11:03.899 --> 00:11:04.979 And even kill, 00:11:05.559 --> 00:11:06.500 Innocent people. 00:11:07.500 --> 00:11:09.179 That's been happening in this country. 00:11:10.019 --> 00:11:11.259 Everybody's aware of it. 00:11:11.259 --> 00:11:12.580 In Seattle, 00:11:12.799 --> 00:11:13.360 Washington, 00:11:14.399 --> 00:11:16.379 Radical extremists, 00:11:17.279 --> 00:11:18.840 Have taken over part of the city, 00:11:19.059 --> 00:11:20.879 Part of the downtown city, 00:11:21.559 --> 00:11:23.360 And the liberal mayor, 00:11:23.439 --> 00:11:24.379 And governor, 00:11:25.240 --> 00:11:26.980 Have not allowed the police, 00:11:27.039 --> 00:11:28.399 Or the National Guard, 00:11:29.559 --> 00:11:30.500 To restore order. 00:11:30.600 --> 00:11:31.860 They didn't allow it to be prevented, 00:11:32.080 --> 00:11:33.000 And they are not allowing, 00:11:33.220 --> 00:11:34.419 Order to be restored. 00:11:34.419 --> 00:11:37.899 Some so-called leaders, 00:11:38.899 --> 00:11:40.360 Have even commended, 00:11:40.360 --> 00:11:45.779 These terrorist type individuals, 00:11:46.319 --> 00:11:48.979 Or made excuses for them, 00:11:50.439 --> 00:11:53.139 And the way they have destroyed businesses, 00:11:53.939 --> 00:11:56.240 Terrorized citizens, 00:11:57.240 --> 00:11:58.699 And killed at least, 00:11:58.699 --> 00:12:00.299 One innocent person. 00:12:00.299 --> 00:12:03.740 It should be clear, 00:12:04.039 --> 00:12:05.719 To normal, 00:12:05.939 --> 00:12:07.419 Logical thinking people, 00:12:08.099 --> 00:12:09.199 That those who are calling, 00:12:09.339 --> 00:12:10.579 For police departments, 00:12:10.740 --> 00:12:12.039 To be defunded, 00:12:12.299 --> 00:12:13.620 Are fools. 00:12:14.979 --> 00:12:15.939 Absolute, 00:12:16.439 --> 00:12:17.079 Fools, 00:12:18.079 --> 00:12:19.579 Who call for, 00:12:19.939 --> 00:12:20.919 Police departments, 00:12:21.919 --> 00:12:23.719 To be defunded, 00:12:23.779 --> 00:12:24.319 In effect, 00:12:26.399 --> 00:12:27.199 Disbanded. 00:12:27.200 --> 00:12:29.740 Minneapolis City Council, 00:12:30.200 --> 00:12:31.640 Here's an example, 00:12:31.759 --> 00:12:33.400 Of why they should be called fools. 00:12:33.800 --> 00:12:35.480 Minneapolis City Council, 00:12:35.800 --> 00:12:37.640 Voted unanimously last week, 00:12:37.860 --> 00:12:38.940 To defund, 00:12:40.200 --> 00:12:41.480 The city's police department. 00:12:43.400 --> 00:12:44.660 But several members, 00:12:44.879 --> 00:12:46.140 Of that city council, 00:12:47.140 --> 00:12:49.520 Have since been assigned, 00:12:49.800 --> 00:12:51.820 Private security guards, 00:12:53.000 --> 00:12:56.100 At a cost of $4,500 a day, 00:12:56.100 --> 00:12:58.340 In taxpayer dollars. 00:12:58.659 --> 00:12:59.879 Now I want you to think about that. 00:13:01.019 --> 00:13:02.240 Think about what's happening, 00:13:02.379 --> 00:13:03.600 In an American city. 00:13:05.320 --> 00:13:06.879 These council members, 00:13:07.740 --> 00:13:08.960 Defunded, 00:13:09.480 --> 00:13:10.500 The police department, 00:13:11.379 --> 00:13:13.420 That provided for their security, 00:13:13.659 --> 00:13:14.560 Every day, 00:13:15.279 --> 00:13:16.759 As a part of their normal, 00:13:16.879 --> 00:13:17.920 Responsibilities. 00:13:19.580 --> 00:13:21.259 They will then go out, 00:13:21.340 --> 00:13:22.500 And hire private, 00:13:22.500 --> 00:13:24.440 A private security, 00:13:24.440 --> 00:13:30.280 That has less training, 00:13:31.340 --> 00:13:32.620 Less experience, 00:13:33.840 --> 00:13:34.940 Less accountability, 00:13:35.940 --> 00:13:38.080 To provide that same, 00:13:38.080 --> 00:13:39.680 Security, 00:13:40.000 --> 00:13:41.300 For themselves. 00:13:43.000 --> 00:13:44.760 They don't want the police, 00:13:44.980 --> 00:13:46.080 But they want what the police, 00:13:46.580 --> 00:13:47.360 Does. 00:13:48.740 --> 00:13:49.560 And so the, 00:13:49.560 --> 00:13:51.760 Absolute fools, 00:13:51.759 --> 00:13:53.759 Defund, 00:13:54.000 --> 00:13:55.259 Well trained, 00:13:55.779 --> 00:13:57.799 Police, 00:13:59.019 --> 00:13:59.799 And hire, 00:14:00.860 --> 00:14:01.980 Private security, 00:14:03.259 --> 00:14:04.779 To protect themselves. 00:14:05.779 --> 00:14:06.779 They're afraid, 00:14:06.899 --> 00:14:08.000 To live without law and order. 00:14:09.439 --> 00:14:11.519 But they're so stupid, 00:14:12.100 --> 00:14:14.639 As to abolish, 00:14:15.700 --> 00:14:17.360 The normal government, 00:14:17.360 --> 00:14:18.360 Sanctioned, 00:14:18.360 --> 00:14:19.360 Sanctioned, 00:14:19.360 --> 00:14:20.700 Police department, 00:14:20.980 --> 00:14:22.940 That throughout the country, 00:14:23.419 --> 00:14:24.600 Is given the responsibility, 00:14:25.480 --> 00:14:26.560 Of enforcing, 00:14:27.039 --> 00:14:27.600 The laws. 00:14:28.879 --> 00:14:30.600 That great philosopher, 00:14:30.840 --> 00:14:31.639 Forrest Gump, 00:14:31.720 --> 00:14:32.419 Was right. 00:14:32.899 --> 00:14:33.779 Stupid is, 00:14:33.820 --> 00:14:34.960 As stupid does. 00:14:36.320 --> 00:14:36.639 Now, 00:14:37.200 --> 00:14:38.340 Even though, 00:14:38.440 --> 00:14:39.300 Our government leaders, 00:14:39.759 --> 00:14:41.440 Who make the laws, 00:14:42.379 --> 00:14:44.039 And the law enforcement officers, 00:14:44.159 --> 00:14:44.879 Who are authorized, 00:14:44.879 --> 00:14:46.379 To enforce the laws, 00:14:46.879 --> 00:14:49.019 Are far from perfect. 00:14:50.080 --> 00:14:51.080 And they are. 00:14:52.259 --> 00:14:54.299 We are far better off, 00:14:54.299 --> 00:14:55.779 With them, 00:14:55.779 --> 00:14:58.419 Than we would be, 00:14:58.879 --> 00:14:59.539 Without them. 00:15:01.059 --> 00:15:02.820 But I want to be quick to say, 00:15:03.299 --> 00:15:04.360 This does not mean, 00:15:04.879 --> 00:15:06.039 That we overlook, 00:15:06.340 --> 00:15:06.840 Leaders, 00:15:07.539 --> 00:15:09.500 Or law enforcement officers, 00:15:10.200 --> 00:15:11.860 Who do wrong. 00:15:11.860 --> 00:15:12.860 Leaders, 00:15:12.860 --> 00:15:13.560 Leaders, 00:15:13.840 --> 00:15:14.460 And officers, 00:15:14.600 --> 00:15:15.620 Who break the laws, 00:15:16.240 --> 00:15:17.480 And fail to administer, 00:15:17.740 --> 00:15:18.360 Justice, 00:15:18.840 --> 00:15:19.480 Properly, 00:15:19.820 --> 00:15:21.120 Should be removed, 00:15:22.159 --> 00:15:23.360 And should be punished, 00:15:23.600 --> 00:15:24.600 Under the law. 00:15:25.639 --> 00:15:26.220 The policeman, 00:15:26.340 --> 00:15:27.840 That killed George Floyd, 00:15:28.539 --> 00:15:29.639 Was rightfully, 00:15:30.019 --> 00:15:30.539 Fired, 00:15:30.700 --> 00:15:31.320 Immediately, 00:15:32.620 --> 00:15:33.700 After his actions, 00:15:33.800 --> 00:15:34.860 Became known. 00:15:35.779 --> 00:15:36.960 He was rightfully, 00:15:36.960 --> 00:15:38.440 Charged with murder, 00:15:38.980 --> 00:15:39.639 As quickly, 00:15:39.639 --> 00:15:41.080 As the legal system, 00:15:41.419 --> 00:15:42.080 Allowed. 00:15:43.720 --> 00:15:44.620 Here's what, 00:15:45.179 --> 00:15:46.179 I want to make clear, 00:15:46.720 --> 00:15:48.259 And it has been clear, 00:15:48.340 --> 00:15:49.279 But people are not listening. 00:15:50.220 --> 00:15:51.299 Law enforcement, 00:15:51.539 --> 00:15:51.860 Leaders, 00:15:52.120 --> 00:15:52.759 And officers, 00:15:53.019 --> 00:15:54.319 Throughout the country, 00:15:55.639 --> 00:15:57.439 Have condemned, 00:15:57.699 --> 00:15:58.759 That man, 00:16:00.039 --> 00:16:01.000 That rogue, 00:16:01.559 --> 00:16:02.240 Killer, 00:16:02.399 --> 00:16:03.159 Police officer, 00:16:03.159 --> 00:16:05.200 And anyone like him, 00:16:05.519 --> 00:16:07.279 Who fails to protect, 00:16:07.279 --> 00:16:08.799 And serve their community, 00:16:09.299 --> 00:16:10.720 The right way. 00:16:12.079 --> 00:16:13.799 As far as I know, 00:16:13.939 --> 00:16:15.919 No governmental authority, 00:16:16.159 --> 00:16:18.199 No police leaders, 00:16:18.779 --> 00:16:21.279 Have defended him, 00:16:21.379 --> 00:16:22.299 In any way. 00:16:24.679 --> 00:16:26.039 Government leaders, 00:16:26.659 --> 00:16:28.199 Law enforcement officers, 00:16:28.740 --> 00:16:29.419 Agree, 00:16:30.759 --> 00:16:32.220 That every human being, 00:16:32.319 --> 00:16:34.339 Deserves justice, 00:16:35.059 --> 00:16:36.019 And equal treatment, 00:16:36.019 --> 00:16:37.039 Under the law, 00:16:37.579 --> 00:16:39.039 By, 00:16:40.039 --> 00:16:41.439 All law enforcement officers, 00:16:42.039 --> 00:16:44.740 And when that does not happen, 00:16:46.019 --> 00:16:46.980 It demands, 00:16:47.139 --> 00:16:48.480 A rational, 00:16:49.419 --> 00:16:51.319 And lawful response, 00:16:51.980 --> 00:16:53.860 But never, 00:16:54.860 --> 00:16:56.539 Is it justified, 00:16:57.340 --> 00:16:58.799 To have an irrational, 00:16:59.240 --> 00:17:00.759 Unlawful response, 00:17:01.720 --> 00:17:02.860 Like we've seen, 00:17:02.980 --> 00:17:03.460 Happen, 00:17:03.460 --> 00:17:05.079 All over the country, 00:17:05.140 --> 00:17:06.079 This past month, 00:17:06.079 --> 00:17:07.079 With riots, 00:17:08.079 --> 00:17:09.000 And looting, 00:17:10.420 --> 00:17:12.259 Now I want to be clear, 00:17:13.340 --> 00:17:14.279 Injustice, 00:17:14.380 --> 00:17:15.340 Can never be, 00:17:15.420 --> 00:17:16.440 Tolerated, 00:17:17.200 --> 00:17:19.079 Anyone who breaks the law, 00:17:20.120 --> 00:17:21.140 Government leaders, 00:17:21.940 --> 00:17:23.319 Law enforcement officers, 00:17:24.019 --> 00:17:25.180 Private citizens, 00:17:26.120 --> 00:17:27.480 And rioters, 00:17:27.559 --> 00:17:28.380 And looters, 00:17:29.019 --> 00:17:30.840 Should be punished, 00:17:31.440 --> 00:17:32.640 Under the law, 00:17:32.640 --> 00:17:36.400 That is what is right, 00:17:36.400 --> 00:17:37.660 Before God, 00:17:38.660 --> 00:17:40.040 Now, 00:17:40.780 --> 00:17:41.700 Let's sort of pause here, 00:17:42.520 --> 00:17:43.520 It should be pointed out, 00:17:43.660 --> 00:17:45.000 That all human authority, 00:17:45.480 --> 00:17:46.860 Is always subordinate, 00:17:47.500 --> 00:17:48.560 To God's authority, 00:17:49.600 --> 00:17:50.960 Look at verse, 00:17:51.500 --> 00:17:52.440 One and two again, 00:17:52.980 --> 00:17:53.900 Let every person, 00:17:53.980 --> 00:17:55.759 Be subject to the governing authorities, 00:17:55.759 --> 00:17:57.640 For there is no authority, 00:17:57.960 --> 00:17:59.180 Except from God, 00:17:59.180 --> 00:18:00.980 And those that exist, 00:18:01.200 --> 00:18:02.480 Have been instituted, 00:18:02.860 --> 00:18:03.980 By God, 00:18:04.320 --> 00:18:04.860 Therefore, 00:18:05.039 --> 00:18:06.100 Whoever resists the authorities, 00:18:06.420 --> 00:18:08.100 Resists what God has appointed, 00:18:09.519 --> 00:18:10.840 Now think about that for a moment, 00:18:11.840 --> 00:18:14.279 That means, 00:18:14.380 --> 00:18:15.180 If we ever face, 00:18:15.360 --> 00:18:16.140 A situation, 00:18:16.940 --> 00:18:20.160 Let me back up a minute, 00:18:21.160 --> 00:18:22.640 God has appointed, 00:18:22.860 --> 00:18:23.180 Has ordained, 00:18:23.180 --> 00:18:26.320 That there be human, 00:18:26.320 --> 00:18:27.480 Human authority, 00:18:28.360 --> 00:18:28.860 Government, 00:18:29.200 --> 00:18:29.720 State, 00:18:30.220 --> 00:18:31.060 Sanctioned, 00:18:31.060 --> 00:18:31.759 Authority, 00:18:31.759 --> 00:18:35.759 But it's under him, 00:18:37.039 --> 00:18:38.519 It's under his authority, 00:18:38.660 --> 00:18:39.980 It's under his word, 00:18:40.120 --> 00:18:40.740 That he's revealed, 00:18:41.200 --> 00:18:42.180 About himself, 00:18:42.279 --> 00:18:43.000 About life, 00:18:43.000 --> 00:18:46.000 If we ever face a situation, 00:18:46.740 --> 00:18:47.900 Where our only choice, 00:18:48.019 --> 00:18:49.720 Is either to obey God's word, 00:18:50.519 --> 00:18:51.900 And disobey man's law, 00:18:51.900 --> 00:18:54.640 Or to obey man's law, 00:18:55.300 --> 00:18:57.040 And disobey God's word, 00:18:58.040 --> 00:18:59.600 If we're going to be faithful, 00:19:00.340 --> 00:19:01.560 We must obey God's word, 00:19:01.620 --> 00:19:02.720 And disobey man's law, 00:19:03.480 --> 00:19:06.340 That's how the early church leaders, 00:19:06.420 --> 00:19:06.960 Responded, 00:19:07.160 --> 00:19:08.380 When they were ordered, 00:19:09.500 --> 00:19:10.460 Stop preaching, 00:19:11.120 --> 00:19:12.040 In the name of Jesus, 00:19:12.500 --> 00:19:13.860 Stop preaching the gospel, 00:19:14.820 --> 00:19:16.000 They were charged, 00:19:16.140 --> 00:19:17.200 By Jesus himself, 00:19:18.140 --> 00:19:19.500 The word they heard, 00:19:19.620 --> 00:19:20.220 From the Lord, 00:19:20.780 --> 00:19:21.640 Go into all the world, 00:19:21.640 --> 00:19:22.460 And make disciples, 00:19:23.460 --> 00:19:25.240 Be my witness, 00:19:26.240 --> 00:19:27.140 And that's what they were doing, 00:19:27.740 --> 00:19:28.640 So when they were ordered, 00:19:28.740 --> 00:19:29.180 To stop, 00:19:29.300 --> 00:19:30.180 They had no choice, 00:19:30.300 --> 00:19:30.960 But what they, 00:19:31.259 --> 00:19:32.360 Are well known now, 00:19:32.440 --> 00:19:32.960 For saying, 00:19:33.060 --> 00:19:34.160 In Acts chapter five, 00:19:34.600 --> 00:19:35.960 We must obey God, 00:19:36.600 --> 00:19:37.680 Rather than men, 00:19:39.040 --> 00:19:40.759 So there are exceptions, 00:19:41.700 --> 00:19:42.800 But these exceptions, 00:19:42.800 --> 00:19:44.660 Do not void the point, 00:19:44.780 --> 00:19:45.500 That Paul was making, 00:19:45.580 --> 00:19:46.320 In Romans 13, 00:19:46.319 --> 00:19:49.240 What we as Christians, 00:19:49.319 --> 00:19:49.960 Need to understand, 00:19:50.099 --> 00:19:51.319 Is that God has established, 00:19:51.319 --> 00:19:52.319 Government authority, 00:19:53.099 --> 00:19:54.079 In this world, 00:19:55.079 --> 00:19:58.220 And government authority, 00:19:58.579 --> 00:20:00.099 In the hands of human beings, 00:20:00.179 --> 00:20:01.339 Will always be flawed, 00:20:02.139 --> 00:20:03.879 It will always be imperfect, 00:20:03.880 --> 00:20:06.540 We don't accept that, 00:20:06.540 --> 00:20:07.680 We try to do better, 00:20:07.680 --> 00:20:11.000 But as God's people, 00:20:12.000 --> 00:20:14.420 We must submit, 00:20:14.660 --> 00:20:15.560 To that authority, 00:20:16.000 --> 00:20:16.840 Work to change, 00:20:16.900 --> 00:20:17.860 What needs to be changed, 00:20:18.060 --> 00:20:18.760 Work to correct, 00:20:18.840 --> 00:20:19.800 What needs to be corrected, 00:20:20.480 --> 00:20:22.220 But we cannot, 00:20:22.480 --> 00:20:24.200 Reject authority, 00:20:24.700 --> 00:20:26.200 Because the result will be, 00:20:26.760 --> 00:20:27.300 Anarchy, 00:20:27.740 --> 00:20:28.380 Chaos, 00:20:28.720 --> 00:20:29.420 Lawlessness, 00:20:29.420 --> 00:20:32.300 As we have seen, 00:20:32.400 --> 00:20:33.320 Even in our own country, 00:20:33.380 --> 00:20:34.480 In recent times, 00:20:35.220 --> 00:20:36.019 Now Paul gives us, 00:20:36.080 --> 00:20:37.060 Another reason for submitting, 00:20:38.360 --> 00:20:39.240 In verses three, 00:20:39.320 --> 00:20:40.100 Through five, 00:20:40.200 --> 00:20:40.700 Look at this, 00:20:41.120 --> 00:20:42.380 The ministry of government, 00:20:42.740 --> 00:20:44.300 Has been assigned by God, 00:20:45.220 --> 00:20:46.080 I'm using the word, 00:20:46.200 --> 00:20:46.880 Ministry here, 00:20:46.880 --> 00:20:48.880 For a purpose, 00:20:49.880 --> 00:20:50.460 Look at this, 00:20:51.240 --> 00:20:51.980 Paul emphasizes, 00:20:52.180 --> 00:20:53.820 The government's ministry, 00:20:55.340 --> 00:20:56.259 Servanthood, 00:20:57.519 --> 00:20:58.560 Just as he did, 00:20:58.559 --> 00:21:00.240 Government's authority, 00:21:00.879 --> 00:21:01.599 Note again, 00:21:01.740 --> 00:21:02.700 Three statements, 00:21:04.059 --> 00:21:05.940 For he is God's servant, 00:21:07.019 --> 00:21:08.119 God's minister, 00:21:08.759 --> 00:21:09.579 For your good, 00:21:09.839 --> 00:21:11.419 For he is the servant of God, 00:21:11.759 --> 00:21:12.960 An avenger who carries out, 00:21:13.000 --> 00:21:14.519 God's wrath on the wrongdoer, 00:21:15.200 --> 00:21:16.960 For the authorities are, 00:21:17.679 --> 00:21:19.579 Ministers of God, 00:21:21.059 --> 00:21:21.980 Paul describes, 00:21:23.440 --> 00:21:24.639 Governmental authorities, 00:21:25.039 --> 00:21:26.019 Government leaders, 00:21:26.019 --> 00:21:28.680 In whatever capacity, 00:21:28.799 --> 00:21:29.720 Law enforcement officers, 00:21:29.799 --> 00:21:30.460 Who carry out, 00:21:30.799 --> 00:21:31.339 The laws, 00:21:31.599 --> 00:21:32.700 Or enforce the laws, 00:21:33.339 --> 00:21:35.079 They're servants of God, 00:21:35.299 --> 00:21:36.480 In this world, 00:21:36.480 --> 00:21:38.700 You think about, 00:21:39.339 --> 00:21:40.480 Our elected leaders, 00:21:42.339 --> 00:21:43.480 Think about judges, 00:21:45.200 --> 00:21:45.700 Think about, 00:21:45.779 --> 00:21:47.579 Think about law enforcement officers, 00:21:48.400 --> 00:21:50.400 Some are Christians, 00:21:51.139 --> 00:21:52.519 Many are not, 00:21:52.519 --> 00:21:54.160 Some would be, 00:21:54.160 --> 00:21:54.180 Some would be, 00:21:54.180 --> 00:21:56.339 Some would be, 00:21:56.339 --> 00:21:58.059 Of another religion, 00:21:58.740 --> 00:22:02.339 But they are, 00:22:02.879 --> 00:22:03.599 Many of them, 00:22:03.740 --> 00:22:04.839 Unconsciously, 00:22:05.500 --> 00:22:06.200 And all of them, 00:22:06.319 --> 00:22:07.460 Imperfectly, 00:22:08.019 --> 00:22:08.740 They're serving, 00:22:08.879 --> 00:22:09.900 God's purpose, 00:22:10.900 --> 00:22:12.619 Of administering, 00:22:12.799 --> 00:22:13.400 Justice, 00:22:14.019 --> 00:22:14.720 In this world, 00:22:15.839 --> 00:22:16.819 I want you to notice, 00:22:16.960 --> 00:22:17.660 In verse four, 00:22:17.660 --> 00:22:20.220 What, 00:22:20.640 --> 00:22:21.980 Some people would consider, 00:22:21.980 --> 00:22:24.180 A hard statement, 00:22:24.880 --> 00:22:25.340 The phrase, 00:22:25.519 --> 00:22:26.779 Bear the sword, 00:22:27.800 --> 00:22:27.980 Emphasizes, 00:22:28.680 --> 00:22:29.980 The authority of government, 00:22:30.180 --> 00:22:30.980 To punish law, 00:22:31.040 --> 00:22:31.920 Lawbreakers, 00:22:32.720 --> 00:22:34.000 Even to the point, 00:22:34.080 --> 00:22:35.060 Of exercising, 00:22:35.380 --> 00:22:36.400 Deadly force, 00:22:37.759 --> 00:22:38.820 Capital punishment, 00:22:40.259 --> 00:22:41.140 Or even waging, 00:22:41.240 --> 00:22:41.980 A just war, 00:22:43.980 --> 00:22:44.740 This word, 00:22:45.380 --> 00:22:46.580 Translated sword here, 00:22:46.579 --> 00:22:47.879 It's used in other places, 00:22:47.879 --> 00:22:48.639 In the New Testament, 00:22:48.939 --> 00:22:50.039 To describe a sword, 00:22:50.179 --> 00:22:50.939 That killed people, 00:22:51.740 --> 00:22:53.059 You can see on the screen there, 00:22:53.359 --> 00:22:53.980 Some references, 00:22:54.159 --> 00:22:54.939 If you want to write them down, 00:22:54.980 --> 00:22:55.519 And look them up, 00:22:56.659 --> 00:22:57.519 When Paul says, 00:22:57.699 --> 00:22:58.779 That government in general, 00:22:58.859 --> 00:22:59.359 Is authorized, 00:22:59.659 --> 00:23:00.539 To bear the sword, 00:23:01.559 --> 00:23:02.500 He means, 00:23:03.559 --> 00:23:04.839 That God has given government, 00:23:05.000 --> 00:23:05.699 The authority, 00:23:06.519 --> 00:23:07.960 To use the sword, 00:23:08.799 --> 00:23:09.759 For the purpose, 00:23:10.039 --> 00:23:11.099 For which it was used, 00:23:11.159 --> 00:23:12.099 In the first century, 00:23:12.099 --> 00:23:16.439 To kill, 00:23:16.579 --> 00:23:17.699 If necessary, 00:23:17.699 --> 00:23:19.839 Not murder, 00:23:19.839 --> 00:23:22.699 But to kill, 00:23:22.879 --> 00:23:23.500 If necessary, 00:23:24.500 --> 00:23:25.799 Now this would apply, 00:23:25.960 --> 00:23:26.539 To the governments, 00:23:26.659 --> 00:23:27.439 Having the authority, 00:23:27.980 --> 00:23:29.379 To wage a just war, 00:23:29.839 --> 00:23:31.359 Not to be the aggressor, 00:23:32.119 --> 00:23:33.519 But to be, 00:23:34.179 --> 00:23:35.559 Involved in, 00:23:35.759 --> 00:23:36.779 Protecting people, 00:23:38.500 --> 00:23:39.679 Administering justice, 00:23:40.259 --> 00:23:41.599 Administer capital punishment, 00:23:41.599 --> 00:23:43.419 And even the, 00:23:43.419 --> 00:23:45.119 Use of deadly force, 00:23:45.399 --> 00:23:46.240 In policing, 00:23:47.279 --> 00:23:48.359 When absolutely, 00:23:48.839 --> 00:23:49.559 Necessary, 00:23:50.559 --> 00:23:51.339 You know, 00:23:51.379 --> 00:23:51.980 I don't know how, 00:23:52.439 --> 00:23:53.519 Many law enforcement officers, 00:23:53.719 --> 00:23:54.159 You know, 00:23:54.279 --> 00:23:54.899 Been around, 00:23:55.439 --> 00:23:56.719 I grew up in a family, 00:23:57.240 --> 00:23:58.399 Where my dad was involved, 00:23:58.439 --> 00:23:58.919 In law enforcement, 00:23:59.019 --> 00:23:59.779 All my life, 00:23:59.859 --> 00:24:00.599 Till he retired, 00:24:00.599 --> 00:24:02.219 I've been around, 00:24:02.279 --> 00:24:03.279 Law enforcement officers, 00:24:03.819 --> 00:24:05.699 My entire life, 00:24:06.299 --> 00:24:08.119 I want you to know, 00:24:08.219 --> 00:24:09.459 That they do not, 00:24:10.459 --> 00:24:11.419 Want, 00:24:12.279 --> 00:24:13.179 To ever use, 00:24:13.559 --> 00:24:14.719 Deadly force, 00:24:15.719 --> 00:24:17.240 That is not something, 00:24:17.439 --> 00:24:18.539 That they desire, 00:24:18.819 --> 00:24:19.659 Long for, 00:24:20.659 --> 00:24:22.399 Most law enforcement officers, 00:24:22.519 --> 00:24:23.199 In this country, 00:24:23.299 --> 00:24:25.740 Never fire their weapon, 00:24:26.339 --> 00:24:27.219 In the line of duty, 00:24:27.659 --> 00:24:28.480 That is a fact, 00:24:28.480 --> 00:24:32.420 We also see, 00:24:32.460 --> 00:24:33.039 In this passage, 00:24:33.160 --> 00:24:33.819 That God intends, 00:24:33.900 --> 00:24:34.400 For government, 00:24:34.539 --> 00:24:35.539 To be his, 00:24:35.640 --> 00:24:36.079 Look at this, 00:24:36.319 --> 00:24:37.019 Avenger, 00:24:37.400 --> 00:24:38.279 Who carries out, 00:24:38.400 --> 00:24:39.400 God's wrath, 00:24:40.039 --> 00:24:41.059 On the wrongdoer, 00:24:41.680 --> 00:24:43.740 God, 00:24:43.940 --> 00:24:45.680 Uses governmental authority, 00:24:46.240 --> 00:24:48.140 To execute his wrath, 00:24:48.599 --> 00:24:49.960 On people who do wrong, 00:24:51.019 --> 00:24:52.360 People who break the law, 00:24:53.860 --> 00:24:55.180 He does this, 00:24:55.180 --> 00:24:57.079 This is how he serves, 00:24:57.460 --> 00:24:57.960 Justice, 00:24:57.960 --> 00:24:59.380 We don't have the right, 00:24:59.460 --> 00:25:00.740 To do that as individuals, 00:25:01.840 --> 00:25:03.180 Get even with people, 00:25:04.180 --> 00:25:06.420 But we give this, 00:25:06.579 --> 00:25:07.819 To government authority, 00:25:07.940 --> 00:25:08.579 To be done, 00:25:08.920 --> 00:25:09.660 Fairly, 00:25:09.940 --> 00:25:10.720 Justly, 00:25:11.840 --> 00:25:12.819 Hopefully without, 00:25:13.160 --> 00:25:14.880 A lot of emotion involved, 00:25:14.880 --> 00:25:19.020 Every government official, 00:25:19.020 --> 00:25:20.080 And law enforcement officer, 00:25:20.480 --> 00:25:21.480 Needs to be held, 00:25:21.540 --> 00:25:22.600 To the highest level, 00:25:22.800 --> 00:25:23.540 Of accountability, 00:25:24.540 --> 00:25:25.720 To ensure, 00:25:25.880 --> 00:25:26.440 That they are, 00:25:26.500 --> 00:25:27.480 Administering justice, 00:25:27.540 --> 00:25:28.280 Appropriately, 00:25:28.840 --> 00:25:30.180 To all people, 00:25:30.900 --> 00:25:31.700 At all times, 00:25:31.760 --> 00:25:32.380 That's a given, 00:25:33.660 --> 00:25:34.780 But every citizen, 00:25:34.860 --> 00:25:35.400 Of this country, 00:25:35.480 --> 00:25:36.320 Needs to understand, 00:25:36.700 --> 00:25:38.000 That if they break the law, 00:25:38.000 --> 00:25:40.539 They will be, 00:25:40.539 --> 00:25:41.420 Pursued, 00:25:41.420 --> 00:25:43.359 And they will be, 00:25:43.359 --> 00:25:44.019 Punished, 00:25:44.019 --> 00:25:47.240 And government authorities, 00:25:47.400 --> 00:25:48.140 Have the, 00:25:48.859 --> 00:25:49.519 Authority, 00:25:50.200 --> 00:25:51.380 The biblical authority, 00:25:51.779 --> 00:25:52.880 To use, 00:25:52.960 --> 00:25:53.839 Appropriate, 00:25:54.039 --> 00:25:54.920 Force, 00:25:55.920 --> 00:25:57.279 Along with the responsibility, 00:25:57.680 --> 00:25:58.460 To exercising, 00:25:58.619 --> 00:25:59.339 Appropriate, 00:25:59.599 --> 00:26:00.500 Restraint, 00:26:00.500 --> 00:26:02.539 As they, 00:26:02.779 --> 00:26:03.559 Enforce the law, 00:26:05.539 --> 00:26:05.819 Now, 00:26:06.960 --> 00:26:07.460 God, 00:26:07.640 --> 00:26:10.339 Has ordained, 00:26:10.880 --> 00:26:12.460 Government, 00:26:12.960 --> 00:26:14.079 He calls government, 00:26:14.200 --> 00:26:14.799 To exercise, 00:26:15.299 --> 00:26:16.660 Authority in this world, 00:26:16.960 --> 00:26:18.039 For our good, 00:26:18.359 --> 00:26:19.579 For the good of those, 00:26:19.660 --> 00:26:20.680 Who desire to, 00:26:20.839 --> 00:26:21.759 Uphold the law, 00:26:22.380 --> 00:26:23.140 But I want you to look at, 00:26:23.240 --> 00:26:23.819 One more thing, 00:26:23.880 --> 00:26:24.720 Before we leave this morning, 00:26:25.420 --> 00:26:26.299 God calls us, 00:26:26.380 --> 00:26:27.759 To conscientiously, 00:26:28.759 --> 00:26:29.500 Obey, 00:26:29.500 --> 00:26:30.539 Government, 00:26:30.539 --> 00:26:30.660 Government, 00:26:30.920 --> 00:26:31.420 Authority, 00:26:31.640 --> 00:26:33.059 Look back at verse 5 again, 00:26:33.619 --> 00:26:34.720 We find in verse 5, 00:26:34.819 --> 00:26:35.660 That we are to support, 00:26:35.839 --> 00:26:36.259 The government, 00:26:36.579 --> 00:26:37.440 Not just because, 00:26:37.539 --> 00:26:38.700 We're afraid of being punished, 00:26:39.700 --> 00:26:40.279 Not just because, 00:26:40.339 --> 00:26:41.579 We're afraid of being caught, 00:26:42.440 --> 00:26:43.799 But because it's the right, 00:26:43.880 --> 00:26:45.099 Thing to do, 00:26:45.180 --> 00:26:46.000 Look at verse 5, 00:26:49.079 --> 00:26:49.460 Therefore, 00:26:50.279 --> 00:26:52.539 One must be in subjection, 00:26:52.799 --> 00:26:53.759 Not only to avoid, 00:26:53.839 --> 00:26:54.819 God's wrath, 00:26:55.200 --> 00:26:55.960 But also, 00:26:56.319 --> 00:26:57.119 For the sake, 00:26:57.579 --> 00:26:58.539 Of conscience, 00:26:59.500 --> 00:27:00.720 As Christians, 00:27:01.259 --> 00:27:03.279 We should believe this, 00:27:03.519 --> 00:27:04.579 What we've been looking at this morning, 00:27:05.579 --> 00:27:06.960 It should be within us, 00:27:07.059 --> 00:27:07.759 To know, 00:27:08.839 --> 00:27:10.359 That laws, 00:27:10.680 --> 00:27:11.359 Are good, 00:27:11.500 --> 00:27:12.339 Are helpful, 00:27:12.339 --> 00:27:15.019 It brings order, 00:27:15.680 --> 00:27:16.180 Safety, 00:27:16.420 --> 00:27:17.039 Security, 00:27:17.539 --> 00:27:18.359 To a society, 00:27:18.480 --> 00:27:19.299 To a group of people, 00:27:19.299 --> 00:27:20.480 And so, 00:27:20.639 --> 00:27:21.899 We should desire, 00:27:22.519 --> 00:27:24.639 Within us, 00:27:25.379 --> 00:27:26.859 As people of God, 00:27:26.919 --> 00:27:28.000 With the Spirit of God within us, 00:27:28.259 --> 00:27:29.319 We should desire, 00:27:29.859 --> 00:27:30.839 To obey the law, 00:27:31.599 --> 00:27:32.480 To cooperate, 00:27:33.359 --> 00:27:34.940 As long as we're not called upon, 00:27:35.019 --> 00:27:35.940 To sin against God, 00:27:36.159 --> 00:27:37.419 To cooperate with, 00:27:37.519 --> 00:27:39.000 Government leaders, 00:27:40.039 --> 00:27:41.700 Obeying governmental authority, 00:27:41.700 --> 00:27:44.779 Is simply a part of our obedience to God, 00:27:44.779 --> 00:27:47.359 It is the right thing to do, 00:27:47.980 --> 00:27:49.299 It is a good thing, 00:27:49.639 --> 00:27:50.259 For us to do, 00:27:50.779 --> 00:27:51.000 And so, 00:27:51.099 --> 00:27:52.379 Paul appeals to us, 00:27:52.779 --> 00:27:54.579 Not just because you'll be punished, 00:27:55.359 --> 00:27:56.420 But as a Christian, 00:27:56.559 --> 00:27:58.059 It should be a part of your conscience, 00:27:58.480 --> 00:27:59.879 Could it be something you want to do, 00:28:01.039 --> 00:28:02.720 As a child of God, 00:28:03.440 --> 00:28:03.940 Obey, 00:28:04.339 --> 00:28:05.279 God given authority, 00:28:05.899 --> 00:28:06.160 Now, 00:28:06.740 --> 00:28:08.359 I want us to wind this whole thing up, 00:28:08.420 --> 00:28:09.180 This morning by looking at, 00:28:09.819 --> 00:28:10.759 Or thinking about, 00:28:11.460 --> 00:28:12.920 While God does exercise, 00:28:12.920 --> 00:28:14.580 His power and His purpose, 00:28:15.640 --> 00:28:17.680 Through proper government authorities, 00:28:18.860 --> 00:28:20.759 His greatest demonstration of power, 00:28:21.759 --> 00:28:23.759 Is found in the gospel of Jesus Christ, 00:28:24.680 --> 00:28:26.420 That's how I want us to end today, 00:28:27.360 --> 00:28:28.980 God works through His spirit, 00:28:29.100 --> 00:28:29.820 And His word, 00:28:30.380 --> 00:28:31.759 To change people's lives, 00:28:32.900 --> 00:28:34.759 From the inside out, 00:28:36.840 --> 00:28:39.060 What we've been looking at this morning, 00:28:39.860 --> 00:28:40.539 The truth, 00:28:40.860 --> 00:28:41.759 The cold hard facts, 00:28:42.920 --> 00:28:44.800 Just reading that, 00:28:44.920 --> 00:28:46.240 Is not going to change anyone, 00:28:47.860 --> 00:28:49.680 It's not going to make anything better, 00:28:50.640 --> 00:28:52.500 But the spirit of God, 00:28:52.580 --> 00:28:53.600 Working in a Christian, 00:28:54.980 --> 00:28:56.460 Opens our eyes to see, 00:28:56.580 --> 00:28:57.700 This is what's right, 00:28:58.259 --> 00:28:58.860 This is what, 00:28:58.860 --> 00:29:00.640 God has ordained, 00:29:00.840 --> 00:29:02.259 This is what pleases God, 00:29:03.160 --> 00:29:04.860 This can bring change, 00:29:06.259 --> 00:29:07.500 To Christians, 00:29:08.180 --> 00:29:09.259 Across this country, 00:29:10.140 --> 00:29:11.120 Of all denominations, 00:29:11.119 --> 00:29:12.000 Of all races, 00:29:12.000 --> 00:29:14.219 Of all socioeconomic levels, 00:29:15.500 --> 00:29:17.419 The Lord changes people, 00:29:17.619 --> 00:29:18.399 One by one, 00:29:18.539 --> 00:29:19.219 Individually, 00:29:19.739 --> 00:29:21.419 From the inside, 00:29:21.619 --> 00:29:22.199 From the heart, 00:29:22.839 --> 00:29:24.000 And as He changes us, 00:29:24.679 --> 00:29:25.000 Individually, 00:29:26.759 --> 00:29:28.139 He changes our community, 00:29:29.000 --> 00:29:31.039 And as He changes communities, 00:29:31.899 --> 00:29:33.519 He changes, 00:29:33.879 --> 00:29:34.719 Our nation, 00:29:35.779 --> 00:29:37.679 This is what we need to focus on, 00:29:37.680 --> 00:29:40.100 We need to pray for, 00:29:40.100 --> 00:29:43.820 God to work in Christians lives, 00:29:44.820 --> 00:29:46.380 To see the truth, 00:29:46.940 --> 00:29:47.779 About authority, 00:29:48.299 --> 00:29:49.500 About submitting to it, 00:29:50.000 --> 00:29:52.100 About enforcing laws, 00:29:52.600 --> 00:29:53.900 Justly and fairly, 00:29:55.400 --> 00:29:57.400 Cal Thomas is a political columnist, 00:29:57.560 --> 00:29:58.460 And a committed Christian, 00:29:58.460 --> 00:30:00.480 He has a helpful word, 00:30:00.480 --> 00:30:01.100 About this, 00:30:01.819 --> 00:30:02.920 For all Christians, 00:30:03.019 --> 00:30:03.620 In this country, 00:30:03.799 --> 00:30:04.799 I want you to look at what he says, 00:30:05.259 --> 00:30:05.720 He says, 00:30:05.779 --> 00:30:06.799 I think we need to go back, 00:30:06.880 --> 00:30:07.779 To the fundamentals, 00:30:08.620 --> 00:30:10.440 There is nothing more powerful, 00:30:10.640 --> 00:30:11.860 Than an individual believer, 00:30:12.059 --> 00:30:13.299 Sold out to Christ, 00:30:13.559 --> 00:30:15.340 And committed to his own family, 00:30:15.660 --> 00:30:16.559 Her own neighborhood, 00:30:17.000 --> 00:30:18.059 His own school, 00:30:18.340 --> 00:30:19.860 And one's own environment, 00:30:20.420 --> 00:30:22.319 If enough people catch this, 00:30:22.640 --> 00:30:23.700 Which is really the message, 00:30:23.700 --> 00:30:24.900 Of the first century church, 00:30:24.900 --> 00:30:27.259 Then the possibility of revival, 00:30:27.920 --> 00:30:30.019 Of real national need, 00:30:31.019 --> 00:30:32.019 Will be increased, 00:30:32.860 --> 00:30:35.180 We must never forget, 00:30:35.360 --> 00:30:37.040 That our first and foremost, 00:30:38.259 --> 00:30:39.300 Citizenship, 00:30:39.880 --> 00:30:41.700 Is in the kingdom of God, 00:30:42.620 --> 00:30:44.259 And we need to demonstrate, 00:30:44.560 --> 00:30:46.240 That we are a part of the kingdom of God, 00:30:47.160 --> 00:30:48.860 By the way that we live, 00:30:49.480 --> 00:30:50.500 The way that we talk, 00:30:51.700 --> 00:30:52.440 The way that we show, 00:30:52.440 --> 00:30:53.500 That Jesus Christ, 00:30:53.660 --> 00:30:54.440 Has made a difference in our lives, 00:30:54.900 --> 00:30:57.980 If we really want to have, 00:30:58.700 --> 00:31:00.820 A stronger influence, 00:31:01.000 --> 00:31:01.700 And impact, 00:31:02.400 --> 00:31:03.580 On people around us, 00:31:04.480 --> 00:31:05.519 Let's live like Christians, 00:31:06.280 --> 00:31:07.840 Let's share the gospel, 00:31:09.000 --> 00:31:10.740 Let's pray that God will work, 00:31:10.860 --> 00:31:12.640 To change hearts and minds, 00:31:13.040 --> 00:31:13.980 Which will in turn, 00:31:14.860 --> 00:31:15.640 Change attitudes, 00:31:16.000 --> 00:31:17.160 And words and actions, 00:31:18.240 --> 00:31:20.420 This is how we'll be the best citizens, 00:31:20.420 --> 00:31:23.040 This is how we can best, 00:31:23.160 --> 00:31:24.240 Live under the authority, 00:31:24.240 --> 00:31:25.079 Of the government, 00:31:25.079 --> 00:31:27.779 As faithful, 00:31:28.240 --> 00:31:28.740 Committed, 00:31:29.339 --> 00:31:30.420 Followers of Jesus, 00:31:30.920 --> 00:31:32.079 Let's pray together, 00:31:32.079 --> 00:31:33.480 Dear God, 00:31:34.120 --> 00:31:36.700 We pray right now, 00:31:37.240 --> 00:31:39.880 That you will work in our lives, 00:31:41.039 --> 00:31:43.220 To show us that we need to have, 00:31:43.759 --> 00:31:46.220 The right attitude toward government, 00:31:46.819 --> 00:31:48.059 Law enforcement officers, 00:31:48.740 --> 00:31:49.859 Authority in general, 00:31:49.859 --> 00:31:53.459 We pray, 00:31:53.459 --> 00:31:53.759 Father, 00:31:53.759 --> 00:31:54.599 That you will work, 00:31:55.039 --> 00:31:56.779 Through your word, 00:31:57.359 --> 00:31:58.319 Through your spirit, 00:31:58.819 --> 00:31:59.979 Throughout our country, 00:32:01.399 --> 00:32:02.519 To cause Christians, 00:32:02.719 --> 00:32:03.459 To realize, 00:32:04.459 --> 00:32:06.419 What we've been looking at this morning, 00:32:06.939 --> 00:32:10.199 To live like Christians, 00:32:10.779 --> 00:32:11.659 In this way, 00:32:11.660 --> 00:32:13.560 We pray, 00:32:13.560 --> 00:32:13.580 We pray, 00:32:13.820 --> 00:32:13.880 Father, 00:32:13.940 --> 00:32:14.860 That you would so work, 00:32:14.960 --> 00:32:17.460 To cause rational thinking people, 00:32:17.800 --> 00:32:19.000 Believers and unbelievers, 00:32:19.500 --> 00:32:22.380 To see that, 00:32:22.380 --> 00:32:23.920 Lawlessness, 00:32:25.320 --> 00:32:27.060 Rejection and rebellion, 00:32:27.060 --> 00:32:27.980 Against authority, 00:32:29.340 --> 00:32:30.820 Will only lead to chaos, 00:32:31.279 --> 00:32:32.500 And more lawlessness, 00:32:33.320 --> 00:32:34.960 And increasing violence, 00:32:34.960 --> 00:32:38.900 We pray, 00:32:39.140 --> 00:32:39.200 Father, 00:32:39.259 --> 00:32:40.960 That you will cause people in this country, 00:32:41.700 --> 00:32:43.259 To reject that, 00:32:43.920 --> 00:32:45.860 To reject anarchy, 00:32:47.860 --> 00:32:49.980 Help Christians to lead the way, 00:32:53.340 --> 00:32:54.319 Help us, 00:32:54.559 --> 00:32:54.600 Father, 00:32:54.680 --> 00:32:55.220 To find, 00:32:56.799 --> 00:32:58.940 More common ground, 00:33:00.779 --> 00:33:03.740 Give us wisdom, 00:33:04.960 --> 00:33:06.519 Throughout the country, 00:33:07.240 --> 00:33:08.980 Men and women, 00:33:09.340 --> 00:33:10.100 Young people, 00:33:10.960 --> 00:33:14.100 Help us to collectively, 00:33:15.579 --> 00:33:17.420 Act wisely, 00:33:17.880 --> 00:33:18.940 In our communities, 00:33:19.840 --> 00:33:21.400 In our towns, 00:33:22.160 --> 00:33:23.759 In our states, 00:33:25.840 --> 00:33:26.740 Lord, 00:33:26.799 --> 00:33:27.660 If there are people in this room, 00:33:27.819 --> 00:33:27.960 Who, 00:33:29.279 --> 00:33:31.519 Need to change some attitudes, 00:33:33.480 --> 00:33:34.400 Show them, 00:33:34.960 --> 00:33:36.059 Help them to see, 00:33:36.240 --> 00:33:37.240 What needs to change, 00:33:38.680 --> 00:33:39.299 Lord, 00:33:39.340 --> 00:33:40.059 If there are people in this room, 00:33:40.079 --> 00:33:40.980 Who do not know Jesus, 00:33:41.120 --> 00:33:42.019 As their Lord and Savior, 00:33:42.900 --> 00:33:44.200 Call them to faith in Jesus, 00:33:44.340 --> 00:33:44.740 Now, 00:33:45.740 --> 00:33:48.400 But help us all, 00:33:48.519 --> 00:33:49.360 To obey you, 00:33:50.740 --> 00:33:53.019 And respond to what you are saying to us, 00:33:53.079 --> 00:33:53.940 Through your word and spirit, 00:33:54.460 --> 00:33:55.140 Let's just pray, 00:33:55.240 --> 00:33:55.960 And listen to the Lord, 00:33:56.059 --> 00:33:56.660 And respond, 00:33:56.660 --> 00:33:59.820 Thanks for listening. 00:33:59.820 --> 00:34:02.400 We'll see you tonight, 00:34:03.400 --> 00:34:03.820 Like, 00:34:03.820 --> 00:34:04.640 ция, 00:34:04.720 --> 00:34:05.220 Underlife, 00:34:05.340 --> 00:34:06.240 And Iайтесь on my side, 00:34:06.240 --> 00:34:06.940 And follow on my way, 00:34:07.000 --> 00:34:07.279 tocar on and 식ress, 00:34:07.519 --> 00:34:08.760 And listen to the things, 00:34:08.820 --> 00:34:09.599 What are you saying to you, 00:34:09.599 --> 00:34:10.240 That is eai, 00:34:10.240 --> 00:34:11.099 That is the most important thing, 00:34:11.099 --> 00:34:13.480 And a bomb, 00:34:13.720 --> 00:34:15.480 You choose to do, 00:34:15.480 --> 00:34:16.680 Or go out persuasion, 00:34:16.680 --> 00:34:17.039 and friendships, 00:34:17.039 --> 00:34:18.579 And I go down to this, 00:34:18.579 --> 00:34:19.740 And then, 00:34:19.980 --> 00:34:21.079 Come into this room, 00:34:21.159 --> 00:34:21.860 And today, 00:34:21.880 --> 00:34:22.880 And now,