Promote Justice

Acts 22:4-5 Those who were standing near Paul said, “You dare to insult God's high priest?” 5 Paul replied, “Brothers, I did not realize that he was the high priest; for it is written: ‘Do not speak evil about the ruler of your people.’”
 
ANANIAS, the high priest, had ordered Paul punished without a trial. Paul had responded with righteous judgment, “God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! You yourself violate the law by commanding that I be struck!” Paul had been correct that Ananias had violated a law. But he did not know he, too, had disobeyed one of God’s commands.
   Paul was not aware Ananias was the high priest. We may find this odd, but Paul had not been in Jerusalem for about 20 years. There is also evidence from several points in his writings that Paul had poor eyesight. Facial features are very difficult for a person with low vision to see.
   Was ignorance of Ananias’ position an excuse for Paul’s error? No, Paul realized he had broken God’s command, “Do not speak evil about the ruler of your people.” (Exodus 22:28). His confession of the law is his confession of his sin.
   Paul understood this law applied to the Christian life. He wrote in Romans 13:5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. This means,  “Submit to authorities because it is God’s law.”
   God’s law is a response to the sins of the world and of Isreal, specifically. Genesis tells of many ways people rebelled against authority. This was true of the families of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. And Moses’ rebellion against Egypt’s authority caused his 40-year exile. God wanted peace among his people, so they would show the world a good and right way to live. Even if one disagrees with his rulers, he must honor their position.
   This is essential in the structure of our homes, churches, regions and nations. We must understand God has established these entities as a means of order for our daily lives. Yes, there are appropriate times to resist laws that oppose God’s laws. But Peter and John replied, “Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to obey you rather than God.” (Acts 4:19) Appeal and resist unjust laws with respect for the governing authorities. Many times we can do so, using procedures that allow for laws and rulers to change. Violent, judgmental efforts to change unjust laws may create more rigid controls.
   There is a time to submit to authority and a time to resist. Seek God’s wisdom to know what time it is.