THE STORY OF JESUS: Luke 20:20-26
“Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” (Luke 20:25)
Jesus did not advance the kingdom of God by advocating rebellion or revolution.
Caesars were unrighteous leaders, but they were God-appointed. (Romans 13:1-2)
Our focus should not be to displace governments, but to demonstrate goodness.
We need to do what is right and not just demand it from our leaders.
Jesus didn’t fight the Romans, but neither did He stop living for God’s kingdom.
As Jesus followers, we join with Jesus in doing what is right and good (giving to God)
This includes giving respectful submission to governing authorities (giving to Caesar).
This includes paying our taxes and submitting to their laws.
The only time we can disobey our leaders is if they compel us to do what is wrong.
Even then, not in a defiant or disrespectful way, but humble, peaceful and prayerful.
As Paul says, we are not to overcome evil with evil, but with good (Romans 12:21).
“Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” (1 Peter 2:12)
In a sense, we ought to be the best citizens of all, the kind that make leaders notice!
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, make me a channel of Your peace, and not an agent of rebellion. May I not be known as a trouble-maker, but as a good-deed doer.