Do what is right. (Romans 13:3)
Yesterday we tried to understand Paul’s statement in Romans 13:1-2 that we should submit to those in authority because they are there by God’s appointment. His reason is given in verse 3, “For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you.”
But what happens, as it did under Caesar’s rule in the first century, when Christians who were known to do good, were falsely accused and fed to the lions or burned at the stake? The temptation is to do or say what is politically correct.
Paul Bunyan faced this. He was told he would be put in prison if he preached to the common folks outside of a church building. Convinced God had called him to preach to these very folk he was willing to face the consequences threatened by the authorities. In this way he submitted to the governing authorities.
They put him in prison, and while there he occupied himself by writing one of the most widely read books of all times. Pilgrims Progress, has blessed untold multitudes looking for solace in troubled times and light for going on in their walk with God. He did what was right but was not commended for it by the authorities. He waited on God for His commendation. And the blessing of the book as it has touched lives even to this day was commendation enough.
Only God knows what awaits us when we arrive in heaven. Will we hear Him say, “Well done my faithful servant.”
