Balancing Honor and Subversiveness: living post election
Comments (6) I believe there is an intrinsic subversiveness in Jesus’ message of the Kingdom. The New Testament evangelist did not shy away from ascribing to Jesus terms reserved for the Emperor himself. King of the Jews. Ruler. Savior. Son of God. Jesus’ message was disruptive to the divisive class system of his time. He taught a form of social protest in retaliation to the oppression common in the Galilean countryside. Just calling it the kingdom reeks of rebellion.
Simultaneously, Christ followers are told to render to Caesar and make supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions.
Regardless who you supported (or didn’t support for that matter) in this recently election, everyone must answer a question. How should I act toward government.
I have heard people from any number of political backgrounds (both Christian and non) say, “If ___________ wins the election, I’m leaving this country.” or “I can’t live in a country with ___________ as it’s president.” Interestingly enough, they never seem to follow through. To be honest, I have entertained similar thoughts. Where does this attitude come from? Why is there such vitriol absurdity?
So, how should Christ followers, who are faced with reconciling the subversive nature their faith and the call to honor authority. Peter’s words on the subject seem quite fitting.
Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.
Keep in mind who was the emperor he is telling them to honor. Nero.
At the end of the day, whatever your political persuasion, you must balance honor and subversion.
