When (and Why) A Christian Must Speak Out Against Government

TODAY'S BIBLE READING:

Genesis 42:18–43:34
Matthew 13:47–14:12
Psalm 18:16-36 
Proverbs 4:7-10

BIBLE VERSE(S) FOR TODAY:

Matthew 14:3-4 "For Herod had arrested and imprisoned John as a favor to his wife Herodias (the former wife of Herod’s brother Philip). John had been telling Herod, 'It is against God’s law for you to marry her.'"

REFLECTIONS ON TODAY'S BIBLE VERSE(S):

Yesterday, the 45th president of the United States was sworn into office. According to God's Word, regardless of whether or not we like those who are in authority, we are commanded by our God to submit to them and regularly pray for them (see Romans 13:1; 1 Timothy 2:1-2).

But, that does not mean that we keep our mouths closed when our government, or the individuals in positions of leadership, do wrong. In fact, when we look at the verses for today, we see John the Baptist speaking against the evils of "king" Herod.

Why did John care about Herod's sinful lifestyle? Simply put – a leader's lifestyle will, to one extent or another, define what is right and wrong for those who are under their authority. So, John the Baptist called out sin when he saw it even in someone who claimed no relationship with the Lord.

Our 45th president is not without his flaws. His previous (and present?) lifestyle, and his refusal to repent of any of it, is well documented. While we are praying for him and are grateful for his generous references to Jesus and God's Word, we should never be seen to condone what is horribly offensive to God. (We're not talking about the small things. We ALL sin.)

Why?

Because his lifestyle will eventually redefine what is right and wrong in our country. The Church simply cannot preach against sin in the church house on Sunday and affirm it in the White House on Monday.