Bible Question: Does God or Jesus threaten us with jail or prison or do those threats come from the adversary ? |
Bible Answer: Hi, Tracy... To give you a Biblical answer, please consider: The Scriptures tell us to submit to human institutions (1 Peter 2:13). The Lord has established the state in order to maintain order in the world. Paul writes, "Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God" (Romans 13:1). "Therefore," Paul continues (v2), "whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same (v3); for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it [the state] does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. (v4)" He concludes, "it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake. (v5) For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing. (v6)." We are told that "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (Psalm 111:10). When we recognize all the mechanisms God has put into place in order to maintain His purposes, it is very wise for us to walk in them. For thus we will have a peaceable life (1 Thessalonians 4:11; cf 1 Timothy 2:2). This gives us the freedom to live fruitful lives for our Lord. In Him, Doc |