“Living as Citizen Strangers: The Christian’s Relationship with Rulers and Authorities” 1 Peter 2:13–17 & Romans 13:1–7 1. The Principle of/regarding Governing Authorities √ Governments/rulers are established by God. √ Governments/rulers are servants of God. Governments/governors are not a law unto themselves but are required to govern according to God’s moral law. √ Governments/rulers are to enforce the law and even are to administer capital punishment. √ Governments and rulers therefore have a derived authority 2. The Precepts for Christians √ Christians are to “be subject” to earthly governments, leaders. √ i.e. Christians are NOT anarchists. √ Christian compliance with governing authorities is done for the Lord’s sake. √ Resisting governors and rulers is resisting God! √ But there are times when Christians should NOT “be subject” 3. The Exceptions to the Rule √ Submission to authorities and rulers has limitations.