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But Peter and the apostles replied, "We must obey God rather than any human authority. Acts 5:29 NLT
The Bible is clear that Christians are to obey earthly authorities. For example, the apostle Paul wrote, “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment” (Romans 13:1-2).
But one day, Jewish religious leaders warned the apostle Peter and some of his friends to stop talking to people about Jesus. Peter’s response? We must obey God rather than you. In saying that, Peter showed incredible courage. He also set an example for all men of God to follow:
You should respect, obey, and pray for earthly authorities because God has placed them in their positions. But when these authorities contradict or oppose the laws of God, it is your duty to respectfully speak up and even disobey if it comes to that. But before you do that, seek God and ask for wisdom in making the best decision.
Prayer: Father in heaven, I know You want me to obey earthly authorities because You put them in place. But I also know that I must obey You over any human institution or authority. When I must choose whom to obey, give me the wisdom and courage to make the right decision.
The Bible is clear that Christians are to obey earthly authorities. For example, the apostle Paul wrote, “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment” (Romans 13:1-2).
But one day, Jewish religious leaders warned the apostle Peter and some of his friends to stop talking to people about Jesus. Peter’s response? We must obey God rather than you. In saying that, Peter showed incredible courage. He also set an example for all men of God to follow:
You should respect, obey, and pray for earthly authorities because God has placed them in their positions. But when these authorities contradict or oppose the laws of God, it is your duty to respectfully speak up and even disobey if it comes to that. But before you do that, seek God and ask for wisdom in making the best decision.
Prayer: Father in heaven, I know You want me to obey earthly authorities because You put them in place. But I also know that I must obey You over any human institution or authority. When I must choose whom to obey, give me the wisdom and courage to make the right decision.
