(a) What did Paul teach on the need for order in society? (b) List four ways by which a Christian can show that he is a responsible citizen.

Answer Details

(a) Paul's teaching on the need for order in society (Romans 13:1-7)

Paul taught that every person must be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgement.

He explained that rulers are not a terror to good conduct but to bad. The one who does good has no need to fear the authority, for the ruler is God's servant for his good. But if a man does wrong he should be afraid, for the ruler does not bear the sword in vain; he is the servant of God to execute wrath on the wrongdoer. For this reason one must be subject, not only to avoid punishment but also for the sake of conscience.

On the same grounds Paul said that citizens should pay taxes, since the authorities are ministers of God attending to this very thing. He concluded with the summary: "Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honour to whom honour is owed." In this way order, peace and good government are maintained in society.

(b) Four ways a Christian can show that he is a responsible citizen

• By obeying the laws of the land and respecting constituted authority, so long as they do not conflict with the law of God.
• By paying his taxes, rates and dues honestly and promptly for the running of the state.
• By living peaceably and honestly, avoiding crime, violence and corruption, and promoting justice and unity.
• By contributing to the common good, such as participating in community development, voting responsibly, praying for leaders and helping the needy.