What is the Biblical Approach to Those in Leadership?
Spiritual Questions with Scriptural Answers.
A few weeks ago, American citizens exercised their right to vote. This is a privilege and an opportunity to make one’s voice heard and to make a difference.
With that being said, it is important to grasp the fact that God is in control regardless of who is in office. This truth is stressed throughout Scripture.
In the Old Testament, we learn about God’s sovereignty (Psa. 24:1) and His authority over the nations (Psa. 2; Dan. 4:32).
In the New Testament, we learn that those who are in positions of authority are put there by God (Rom. 13:1-7).
With this established, we now ask the question, “What is the biblical approach to those in leadership?” How should you and I act toward those in positions of authority?
Respect.
First, we are to respect those in leadership positions.
The word “respect” means to “hold in high regard.” Biblically, the word “respect” carries the idea of respecting someone by acknowledging greater status or honor than oneself.”
There is to be a healthy fear and a deep reverence for God, and with that, a healthy respect for those He put into positions of authority. Consider the language of Romans 13:1-7:
"Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil. Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience’ sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for they are God’s ministers attending continually to this very thing. Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor.”
Every soul is to be “subject” (willing to submit) to the governing authorities. By showing respect to those in leadership positions, one shows respect to God.
On the other hand, if one shows disrespect toward those positions, he or she disrespects God.
Pray.
Second, we are to pray for those in leadership positions. Paul instructed Timothy to pray but also gave him the reasons why it was so important to do so:
“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Tim. 2:1-4).
Included in this statement are “kings and all who are in authority.” That’s the “who,” but the why is threefold.
First, for our benefit: “That we may lead a quiet and peaceable life.”
Second, for God’s glory: “For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior.”
Third, for their souls: “(God our Savior), Who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Regardless of one’s political status, he or she has a soul! Jesus died for them! We must remember this regardless of our views, beliefs, etc. regarding a candidate, political party, etc.
Promote Godliness.
Third, we are to promote godliness in our society.
The greatest thing one can do for his or her country is to be a faithful Christian. Living the Christian life and promoting godliness can do much good in our society and for generations to come.
Respecting and praying for those in leadership positions promotes godliness because that’s what God desires. Peter made this statement that is brief but powerful:
“Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king” (1 Pet. 2:17).
Here we have four statements to live by. Notice the three words, “Honor,” “Love,” and “Fear.” The word honor is repeated and directed toward one in a leadership position.
There is a lot of turmoil, division, and even hatred in the political realm, especially in our country.
Those who are striving to glorify God will apply the biblical model to their lives by respecting and praying for those in leadership positions while promoting godliness to the glory of God!
May we strive to be the people God would have us to be.
Drew Suttles is a minister for the Quitman church of Christ in Quitman, Georgia, and one of my best friends in this world. They live-stream all their Bible classes and sermons on their YouTube channel.
Drew also hosts the “Weathering the Storm” podcast on the Scattered Abroad Network. Drew talks about facing life’s challenges as a child of God. His podcast will be a blessing to your life.
 | A guest post by
|
Yes, we are to respect, honor, and pray for those in leadership positions; nevertheless, they are also to be held accountable for their actions. And God is no respecter of person when it comes to His Word. We all will give an account for our actions, no one gets away with nothing. You are right about God is in control of everything, and His Word is being played out according to His Scripture. Thanks for this reminder of our godly positions as a body of believers.