What Subjects Owe to the Magistrates.
Render unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's. Matt. 22:21. Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers, etc. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience' sake. For, for this cause pay ye tribute also; for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom, to whom custom; fear, to whom fear; honor, to whom honor. Rom. 13:1,5ff. I exhort, therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men; for kings and for all that are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 1 Tim. 2:1f Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, etc. Titus 3:1. Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake, whether it be to the king as supreme, or unto governors as unto them that are sent by him, etc. 1 Pet. 2:13f ]
The Small Catechism today reminds us of pretty much the same as yesterday. Those who are in places of authority ought to be respected. At the very least we need to respect the office. Rather than ridicule and berate those whose policies we do not like. We need to pray for them. Find peaceable means to make your concerns known. In this country, at least, they are available. Use these means, not just for your own sake; but, for the sake of others. Respect the office of the authorities that have been called to serve. Respect it and do no harm to those who hold these offices. Render unto them the honor due to them.
In Matthew 22:21, Jesus tells us that we are to "Render unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's." This passage deals specifically with paying taxes. Yes, there are problems with the tax laws. They are very complex. They appear very inequitable. The Internal Revenue Service has had and probably still has some serious internal problems. But, the way to change things is not to cheat or lie. We have entered into a time of discernment as candidates for our next president have begun to let us know what they believe. Pay attention. If you want the tax system changed, vote accordingly at all elections.
God's Peace - Pr. J
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