In 1620, a group of English Pilgrims landed on what would become known as the United States of America. They longed to be free of oppression so they could live by the faith they loved. Decades passed, and the Pilgrims became colonists still longing for freedom from the English monarchy.
In the 1770s, that desire hit a fever pitch. It united the colonies, pulling key leaders and influential thinkers together. At the heart of their unity was a desire for religious freedom. And, not just religious liberty, but a conviction that rights were not granted by a government but were instead, endowed by God and were to be protected by a human government.
As Paul wrote in Romans 13:1-7,
Let everyone submit to the governing authorities, since there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are instituted by God.
So then, the one who resists the authority is opposing God’s command, and those who oppose it will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Do you want to be unafraid of the one in authority? Do what is good, and you will have its approval. For it is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, because it does not carry the sword for no reason. For it is God’s servant, an avenger that brings wrath on the one who does wrong. Therefore, you must submit, not only because of wrath but also because of your conscience. And for this reason you pay taxes, since the authorities are God’s servants, continually attending to these tasks. Pay your obligations to everyone: taxes to those you owe taxes, tolls to those you owe tolls, respect to those you owe respect, and honor to those you owe honor. (CSB)
This first century missionary believed governing authority was created by God to protect the law keeper and bring justice to the lawbreaker.
Those gathered in Philadelphia in 1776 agreed.
Thomas Jefferson famously wrote in the Declaration of Independence, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
Governing authority is given by God and to be recognized and protected by humanity.
As Americans mark the 250th anniversary of the signing the Declaration of Independence, we are reminded once again of the great treasure they are and the high price at which they have been defended.
Christians believe their great happiness is found in God. As the psalmist wrote, “But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them shout for joy forever.” (Psalm 5:11, CSB)
Therefore, as we delight in God, we also delight in the good gifts He has given – one of those being governing authorities.
Though he did not know the liberties afforded to Christians in America, Peter called on first century disciples to live in obedience to governing authorities as an act of glorifying God. He wrote, “Submit as free people, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but as God’s slaves. Honor everyone. Love the brothers and sisters. Fear God. Honor the emperor.” (1 Peter 2:16-17, CSB)
That call still applies.
As Americans mark this significant milestone, may we as Christians in America be known as promoters of religious liberty, protectors of the sanctity of human life and defenders of human dignity.
Let us keep in mind that the Baptist Faith and Message calls Southern Baptists “to seek to make the will of Christ supreme in our own lives and in human society.”
The statement of faith calls us to “oppose racism, every form of greed, selfishness, and vice, and all forms of sexual immorality, including adultery, homosexuality, and pornography,” even as they “work to provide for the orphaned, the needy, the abused, the aged, the helpless, and the sick.”
It sees work as a gift of God calling on disciples “to seek to bring industry, government, and society as a whole under the sway of the principles of righteousness, truth, and brotherly love.”
Should God delay Jesus’ return another 250 years, may those who come after us as Christians in America be able to stand on the firm foundation that we have maintained.
As we celebrate this semiquincentennial, may we be reminded that we are the receivers, not givers of our liberties. Therefore, as stewards, may God grant us the will, wisdom and courage to cultivate them and pass them to the coming generations.
