The following student report was submitted by Ambassador League Agent David H. during the 2008-2009 League.
Mission: Research - Civil Government
Civil government is the governing of citizens by an institution established with authoritative control. Throughout God's Word, we read how these institutions ought to operate.
According to the Bible, all authority on earth, including government authority, flows directly from God. He established civil government to be His servant and His minister of justice. He gave the civil authorities the sword, so they might serve and protect His people. God cannot be separated from His creation. Therefore, any claim of authority by the government, the church or any other earthly institution, must conform to His Word, or it is counterfeit and void.
God's Word gives us a guide of the proper structure and function of every earthly institution, including family, marriage, church, and government. This biblical blueprint represents His plan for mankind's existence on earth. According to the Lord, there are limits to the jurisdiction of each institution established under His ultimate authority. For instance, the Bible teaches us that we are to "render therefore unto Caesar (the State), the things that are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's." (Matt. 22:21b)
In Romans 13:1 we read: "Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God." It is very important for citizens to remember that they are subjected to governing authorities. Therefore submission to the authority of legitimate governmental agents is required by God, at all times and in all cases. Submission usually, but not always, results in obedience. Submission always gives honor to whom honor is due.
In verses 2-4 of Romans 13 we read about the consequences of those who resist God's authority. "Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation." (Romans 13:2) Ordinarily, one who is seeking to do good need not fear government. Christians should be the best citizens, for their calling is consistent with government's divine commission.
Verses 5-7 of Romans 13 close this section on civil government by focusing on the value of a clear conscience. There is external motivation which submits us to fear of punishment, but here Paul calls for internal motivation. This internal motivation calls for us to maintain a pure conscience.
It is important to remember the order and class that God, man, and state play to each other. The biblical system requires God to exercise His power through man upon family, church, and state. Each institution has separate duties and must be kept apart.
