Submitting to Authority

Preview: Who, when, and why we must obey those in authority.


Scripture Reading: I Peter 2:11-25.

Memory Verse: Romans 13:1.

1. Must we be willing to submit to earthly authority if we hope to be heirs to God’s Kingdom according to the foregoing Scriptures? Discuss.
2. Who ordained all power and authority? Romans 13:1-2.
3. Why does this include the worldly government? I Peter 2:13-14, I Peter 2:17-18.
Note: We must learn to respect and obey the laws and governments of our land or we can never respect and obey the Laws of God.
4. What other reason do we have for being obedient to man’s authority? I Peter 2:15-23.
5. When should we not obey man’s rules? Acts 5:12-14, Acts 5:17-29.
Note: Anytime man’s laws conflict with God’s Laws we must obey God rather than man, even though it could carry a severe punishment; even death. Obedience cost Jesus His life and He is our example.
6. Why must we still show respect for those in authority even when we suffer unjust punishment? Daniel 6:3-22.
7. How did the king react to Daniel’s attitude? Daniel 6:23-28.
Note: Daniel had done nothing wrong. His punishment was unjust, yet his sweet, humble spirit caused an ungodly king to honor Jehovah God, and He commanded all of his subjects to do likewise. The king blessed and honored Daniel for His faithfulness. God has promised that when our ways please Him, He will even cause our enemies to be at peace with us.
8. What must our attitude be toward God’s ministers? Hebrews 13:17, I Timothy 5:1, I Timothy 5:17-21.
9. How early in life should respect for authority be taught? Exodus 20:12, Proverbs 22:15, Proverbs 19:18.
10. Who must we first respect and obey in order to have a right attitude toward the authority of man? James 4:1, James 4:7-8, I Peter 4:1-2.
Note: We must learn to be in subjection to authority now if we hope to be heirs of God’s Kingdom.