Order in nature reveals that God is an organizer. Experience tells us that any combined effort, such as a school, a government, an army, a business, or a sports team requires organization. God values the civil order9 that supports “peaceful and quiet lives.” 10 That is why He instructs us to cooperate with orderly government and to pay taxes.11
Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good…. Honor the emperor (1 Peter 2:13-14,17).
That “king” was probably Nero, the brutal tyrant who had both Peter and Paul executed.12 Yet Peter and Paul – well aware of the corrupt vices of Rome’s rulers – commanded Christians to submit to the king and his officials.13 In this they followed Jesus, who submitted to Pilate because his power as a ruler came “from above” (John 19:11).
9. For an example of order at work in Corinth, see Acts 18:12-16; and in Ephesus, see Acts 19:38-41.
10. We pray for “kings and all those in authority” so that we may benefit from peace as we spread the Gospel to all people, 1 Timothy 2:1-7 cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:11; Jeremiah 29:7; Ezra 6:10.
11. Taxes: Romans 13:6-7 cf. Matthew 17:24-27; Luke 3:12-13; 5:27-30; 20:19-26; 23:2
12. 2 Peter 1:14; 2 Timothy 4:6 cf. Acts 7:58-60; 12:2; Revelations 2:13
13. Romans 13:1-7; Titus 3:1 cf. Proverbs 24:21
Picture: Erastus, as “director of public works,” had civic authority in Corinth (Romans 16:23). This ancient slab bears his name and government title.