CWW Week 33 - Church & State - Day 1

Church and State.

Scripture

Romans 13:1 (NIV)
“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” 

The relationship between the Church and the State has always raised questions for Christians. How do we live as faithful followers of Jesus in a secular world? How should we respond to government authority, especially when it doesn’t reflect our values or convictions? Romans 13:1–7 offers clear, if sometimes challenging, guidance for how believers are to engage with those in power.

Paul writes to the church in Rome – a church living under the rule of the Roman Empire, a regime that was often unjust and hostile toward Christians. And yet, Paul doesn’t call for rebellion or resistance. Instead, he calls for submission and respect. Why? Because God is sovereign, even over political structures. “The authorities that exist have been established by God,” Paul says. That doesn’t mean all governments are godly, but it does mean that God is ultimately in control, using even flawed systems to accomplish His purposes.

For Australian Christians today, this passage reminds us that living under a secular government is not a threat to our faith – it’s a context in which our faith is tested and refined. We may not always agree with the decisions of our leaders, but we are still called to honour their role, pray for them, and live peaceably as citizens of both heaven and earth.

That doesn’t mean blind obedience. Scripture holds a clear tension: we are to obey earthly authorities unless doing so would mean disobeying God. In Acts 5:29, when commanded not to preach Jesus, the apostles replied, “We must obey God rather than men.” So, while Romans 13 calls for respect and order, it doesn’t call us to compromise our allegiance to Christ.

This distinction is crucial. Our first loyalty is always to God, and our earthly citizenship is lived out in light of our heavenly one. But being a good citizen can itself be a witness to the Gospel. When Christians are known for respecting the law, paying taxes, caring for the poor, and contributing to the common good, people take notice. Paul says in verse 4 that government is meant to be “God’s servant for your good.” While that isn’t always perfectly lived out by leaders, the principle remains: government is part of God’s order, and when it works well, it protects the vulnerable and restrains evil.

In Australia, we are blessed with the freedom to vote, to speak openly, and to worship without fear. These freedoms are not to be taken lightly. But neither are they the source of our hope. Political systems come and go. Governments change. Leaders fail. But God remains faithful. Our trust is not in politics but in the unshakeable kingdom of God.

Still, we are called to engage. Christians should participate in civic life—not to dominate or control, but to serve, influence, and bring light. This means praying for our leaders (1 Timothy 2:1–2), voting thoughtfully, speaking truth with grace, and standing firm when moral lines are crossed.

It’s important, too, to recognise the distinction between Church and State. The Church’s mission is not to run the government; it’s to proclaim Christ and make disciples. When the Church becomes too entangled in political power, the Gospel can become distorted. Yet when the Church retreats completely, it misses the chance to be a prophetic voice. The balance is found in faithful presence—engaging with humility, speaking with courage, and always pointing people to Jesus.

As we reflect on Romans 13, let’s ask ourselves: Are we honouring authority in a way that reflects our trust in God’s sovereignty? Are we living as good citizens without compromising our faith? Are we praying for our leaders and asking God to use us as salt and light in this land?

Let’s remember – we are citizens of heaven first, but God has placed us here, in this time and place, to live faithfully under His rule while respecting the authorities He has allowed. May we do so with wisdom, integrity, and love.

Questions.

1. How do you personally respond to political or government decisions you disagree with? Does your response reflect the spirit of Romans 13?
2. Are you praying regularly for your leaders and engaging with civic life in a way that honours God?
3. What does it look like for you to be both a faithful Christian and a responsible citizen in your community?

Prayer.

Dear Lord, Papa God.
Thank You for placing us in this country and giving us the freedom to worship and speak openly. We pray for our leaders – for wisdom, justice, and humility. Help us to honour authority where it is right, to stand firm where it conflicts with Your Word, and to always trust in Your greater plan. Shape us into people who live with integrity, courage, and grace, showing Your light in every area of life. May we be faithful citizens of both heaven and earth, always seeking Your kingdom first. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Have a great day today with Jesus.

Graham Hood.