What does the Bible say about religion in government?
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The Bible teaches that civil government is ordained by God to preserve order and promote justice, while God alone is Lord of the conscience and must be obeyed above all earthly rulers. Romans 13:1-7 and Titus 3:1 call Christians to honor governing authorities, pay what is owed, and live as peaceable citizens. First Timothy 2:1-4 urges prayer for rulers so that God’s people may live godly, quiet lives and the gospel may spread. Yet Acts 5:29 establishes the necessary limit: when human authority commands disobedience to God, believers must obey God rather than men. Proverbs 29:2 reminds us that righteous rule brings blessing, so Christians should seek wise, just government without confusing political power with Christ’s kingdom.
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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- 1 Timothy 2:1-4
[1] I exhort therefore, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and givings of thanks, be made for all men: [2] for kings and all who are in high places; that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and reverence. [3] For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior; [4] who desires all people to be saved and come to full knowledge of the truth.
- Acts 5:29
But Peter and the apostles answered, "We must obey God rather than men.
- Romans 13:1
Let every soul be in subjection to the higher authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those who exist are ordained by God.
- Titus 3:1
Remind them to be in subjection to rulers and to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work,
- Proverbs 29:2
When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; But when the wicked rule, the people groan.
- Romans 13:1-7
[1] Let every soul be in subjection to the higher authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those who exist are ordained by God. [2] Therefore he who resists the authority, withstands the ordinance of God; and those who withstand will receive to themselves judgment. [3] For rulers are not a terror to the good work, but to the evil. Do you desire to have no fear of the authority? Do that which is good, and you will have praise from the same, [4] for he is a servant of God to you for good. But if you do that which is evil, be afraid, for he doesn't bear the sword in vain; for he is a minister of God, an avenger for wrath to him who does evil. [5] Therefore you need to be in subjection, not only because of the wrath, but also for conscience' sake. [6] For this reason you also pay taxes, for they are ministers of God's service, attending continually on this very thing. [7] Give therefore to everyone what you owe: taxes to whom taxes are due; customs to whom customs; respect to whom respect; honor to whom honor.
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