The early church’s history is marked by persecution, both from religious leaders within Judaism and oppressive actions by secular governments. This historical context shapes our understanding of the church’s relationship to civil authority. While the nature of persecution may vary across different times and places, the fundamental principles guiding the church’s interaction with government remain consistent.

Biblical theology establishes that God has instituted civil government for the welfare of humanity. After the fall of man, it became evident that human society could not function harmoniously if individual conscience was the only guide. The Old Testament illustrates the escalation of violence, leading to God’s judgment through the worldwide flood. Following the flood, God established civil government by instituting capital punishment for murder, thereby affirming the sanctity of human life. “Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.” This divine mandate underscores that human life is precious because humanity is created in God’s image. God ordained that human authorities should establish laws to restrain evil. A Christian perspective on civil government recognizes the fallen nature of human society and acknowledges that perfection is unattainable in this present age. The role of government, therefore, is not to create a perfect society, but to maintain order and justice within a fallen world.

God institutes government as a representative of His authority. Consequently, the church’s response to governmental authority should reflect its response to God’s authority. This involves a twofold response:

• We are to pray for those in positions of authority (1 Tim. 2:1-2).
• We are to respect governmental authority as being ordained by God (Romans 13:1-7).

This respect is due regardless of whether individual Christians agree with specific rulers or the laws they enact. God is the ultimate authority, and He is the one who ultimately establishes and removes rulers (Daniel 2:21; 5:21).