When Should A Christian Rebel Against The Government? 1 Peter

[@michaelutley128]

It is ironic that I am watching this during the election and the riots. As usual, this message was timeless.

[@andytpatt]

Idk if you'll see this being so late, but how does submission to authority work in America when our ultimate authority is the Constitution, yet politicians deny our constitution to serve their interests at our expense. Is it right to uphold and defend the Constitution if it means rebellion against those in governmental positions who would attack the Constitution?

[@ronnychristenjoyer6778]

Generally speaking, working to uphold the law against forces in power that you suspect of breaking it, is lawful behavior. I wouldn't frame it as rebellion, rather as activism. As long as your political activism is not being done in an ungodly manner, this is ok. Smearing people, insulting them personally, engaging in violence, this sort of thing however should definitely be avoided. But calling out corruption and standing up for what is lawful and righteous is ok. That's what MLK did. There's a way to do activism right and in good conscience.

[@Billie_Marie_]

I would love to see a teaching job this as well

[@khammer81]

I am with you Andy. Can we be consistent with submission to the human institution (verse 13) if we are submitting to the Constitution as the law of the land. Constitution = human institution = ultimate authority. Peter and Paul were not under Constitutional republics. Nero had the final say for the empire, where the constitution has the final say for us. I personally can reconcile this with my conscious as the founding framework (human institution) explicitly allows it... "That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government" -Dec of Indep. Governments have risen and fallen since instituted after the flood. God uses many vehicles to bring this about and humans are one of them. Now that is not saying we always resort to violence. Regarding the American revolution, the people had a contract with the King. The King broke the contract by not protecting them from the hostile and oppressive British Government. I believe the colonies were within the grounds of their contract they had with the King to defend themselves. Are these contractual obligations written out before us? I do not think it would be wrong to disobey government positions/persons that step outside of the constitutional authorities instituted by the founding fathers. To obey something that is not constitutional would cause us disobey the constitution as a human institution. i.e. submit to one rogue gov position means to NOT submit to another. The Supreme court precedent is that unconstitutional laws are not enforceable, or should not be at least. I also believe I am biblically mandated to protect my wife and children, that my #1 earthly responsibility is my wife, and then my children. So if the government would try to take away my ability to protect and provide for my family I would have to refuse. Again, it does not have to be violent. And then of course we always would have to submit to the authority of the consequences of our actions. I pray that God can bring us wisdom an discernment on issues like these through deep prayer. I struggled with this after studying this passage but my heart is at peace now. verse 17 says "Love the brotherhood." We as a church should be loving to other believers who may conclude differently on this issue that may not be so clear black and white as Mike said.

[@tessw9744]

@@khammer81 Yeah, kinda hard to rebel against the government when the Law of the Land states that the government is of the People, by the People and for the People. In this case, it becomes the tyrants who rebel against *us!*

[@khammer81]

@@tessw9744 That is a good point, well said.

[@oliviahartland]

Watching this on election day 2020. This is a great reminder of how counter-cultural we are called to be.

[@edwardandjessicawalsh9792]

Yesss!! Growing up I never thought about Christianity as counter culture but as I get older I realize that Christianity has always been the counter culture!

[@raylanroyal2127]

You probably dont care but if you are bored like me during the covid times then you can stream all the latest movies and series on instaflixxer. Have been watching with my brother these days xD

[@jabariterrence4539]

@Raylan Royal Yea, I've been using instaflixxer for months myself =)

[@TinkerBell-bt6vu]

This is a fallen and sinful world. And it seems that if the world loves you and you never have any resistance or trouble for walking in faith and living the Christian life openly, then you aren't doing it right and you may be conforming to the world. Because when we spread the gospel, and live boldly as Christians, we WILL face resistance and persecution. “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you." John 15:18-20 "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will" Romans 12:2

[@charleswest6372]

We CAN do it. Rebellion can work if it's continuous. Like the 60s radicals, do as they did to get action.

[@MrSparkums]

"Resistance to Tyrants is Obedience to God" Benjamin Franklin, inspired by Jonathan Mayhew's 1750 sermon then called “the morning gun of the American Revolution", "A Discourse Concerning Unlimited Submission and Non-Resistance to the Higher Powers"

[@rochellecaffee3267]

Mike, love to listen to you! A breath of fresh air! Thank you! PTL!

[@edwardandjessicawalsh9792]

Sooooo good. Perfect. Thank you so much. I am so blessed to be able to have access to your teaching!! You have helped me so much!! Thank you!!! May God bless you and keep you!!

[@Paul-ud7pt]

What do you do when those in POSITIONS of authority do not actually HAVE the authority granted by the Constitution for what they’re asking?

[@snippletrap]

Big question right now.

[@emmagoodwin3198]

BAMMM feel the same way

[@Billie_Marie_]

YES!

[@Paul-ud7pt]

@@WeatherMoon You're wrong. It has EVERYTHING to do with the constitution. The Constitution DEFINES government authority. The elected politicians of this country are also under law. They cannot just do whatever in the hell they want. The Constitution IS the law of the land.

[@disguisedcentennial835]

@Apsoy Pike the Constitution and Declaration do say that should be the solution. Now what? I agreed with you, but that was a weak point.

[@Mr_Mmhhmm]

Watching this in Canada in the age of James Coates. A+

[@tnt0northtravelministriest627]

Two wrongs dont make a right. Great response to question about taxes and abortion. Great response.

[@voxmansilungan9020]

Hey brother! Just wanted to thank you for sharing this preaching. Helped provide a lot of clarity for me as I studied 1 Peter and preached it to my own congregation. God bless you man!

[@QZigZagg]

Vox Mansilungan where is your church located?

[@allthethingsyouwillsee1081]

Thanks Pastor Mike

[@liwanagcarldarmi9391]

Today is election day in my country, the Philippines and this sermon just pop up in my youtube feed. thanks pastor mike❤️

[@FRN2013]

Too bad they elected a criminal... again. 😢 At least Ferdinand Junior is not a blaspheming, womanizing, Bible-mocking, rape-joking racist. So maybe he will be a better president. Which isn't saying much.

[@kevinschaefer3945]

I've been here over 9 years and, now that God has fulfilled His purposes of me being here and the U.S. has lifted it's Covid restrictions I'm on my way out. I'm happy that you no longer have a mass murderer for a President and I hope and pray that the son of Marcos and "Do-dirty"'s daughter does better for you.

[@MWebb-de9pq]

Never give up your guns if someone comes knocking on your door. Firstly, like you said we submit to the higher authority so our government must submits to the constitution, all gun laws are illegal. We do not obey an authority that is under our 'king' that is doing something illegal. Secondly, if a father or husband gives up his ability to protect, defend, and provide for his family, this causes them to sin. And like you said you must rebel if the government demands and ungodly act. "But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever." 1 Timothy 5:8

[@cariwiebe5074]

Right now in Canada the church is so divided. The government has closed churches down over and over through mandates and even arrested pastors who are still holding meetings. Or churches are mandated to hold meetings for those who have the vax only, and they do check status before service. As someone who is trying to recover from progressive Christianity teaching it is SO hard to know what to do. I feel I really need fellowship and accountability., but that means disobeying.

[@nccrchurchunusual]

In Hebrews, Christians are told "not to forsake the assembly of ourselves" so going to reg church services is a question of obeying God or man.

[@tnmtnmorning1178]

When I was little I thought the rhythm was gonna get me, but turns out, it's the government. Bad 80s joke 😆. Great message and one that I really needed to hear. Listening to this in 2021 and the landscape of this country is less recognizable daily.

[@Solemn_Kaizoku]

Regarding what Mr. Mike mentions around 23:30, I think it is certainly far more than just a "practical" obedience out of fear of punishment, or even for conscience sake. Obedience to government authority should be viewed as an act of worship and submission to the Lord, recognizing He is king and His laws are better for us than what is right in our own eyes.

[@AR15andGOD]

human laws are not His laws though. His law is the law written on our hearts, His holiness. It was the law to turn in jews for killing. It isn't as direct as you say

[@TinkerBell-bt6vu]

I agreed with you up until the last sentance. The laws of the land are not the laws of God. It is legal to have an abortion, that is NOT a law from God. Now what it DOES say is that God sets up those in authority. But it does not mean they are all good leaders or make good laws. It is about obeying authority. Yet, if there is a law made by man that contradicts the laws and commands of God, then we are to follow the commandments of God over the laws set up by man

[@Solemn_Kaizoku]

@@TinkerBell-bt6vu I completely agree with you. After re-reading what I typed, I need to edit that last sentence. Thanks for catching that.

[@jaziybabe]

“Lord….help.” 😂😂 mood

[@matthewkeeley4479]

In WWII, the Royal Family of Norway went into exile; the Prince wanted to stay and defend. He obeyed his father and followed them into Allied countries. Hitler used the scripture to obey the authority of the land. The true authority Norway commanded to fight and assisted the national underground in resistance to unlawful authority.

[@mccalltrader]

Wow..we need to make dang sure that those we elect to submit to are worthy of being submitted too Which means..we are screwed! Lol, politicians, even “good” ones, are corrupt..ain’t never met one who weren’t

[@kevinschaefer3945]

It's interesting to note that the only debtor's prison that exists in the U.S. is when you owe the government money.

[@LIZARD909ALIEN]

Leviticus 19:16 do not spread Discord and do not stand by idly while your neighbor's life is in danger! I am the Lord! The Creator's laws do still apply as they are written for our instruction and are written on our hearts and this is also why we have the divine Authority to overthrow a tyrannical government.

[@paytons6767]

what translation is this? please dont take scripture out of context

[@LIZARD909ALIEN]

@paytons6767 anything highly esteemed among mankind is an Abomination in God's eyes 🤣

[@LIZARD909ALIEN]

@@paytons6767 tax collectors and harlots will enter the Kingdom of Heaven before you do 😂

[@paytons6767]

@@LIZARD909ALIEN absolutely they will! How great and wonderful is our God! Amen!

[@ramennight]

This gets even more complex when you have conflicting laws and conflicting government powers at federal, state, and county levels. Even then, thats rather simple compared to the people in war torn areas who's government keep trading hands rapidly between coued government, original government, new rebellion, and extremists factions. Unfortunately something like that might not be that far away in America either.

[@Lillaloppan]

Thank you so very much 🙏😊!

[@tnt0northtravelministriest627]

God, Constitution, Law, policies. This is the process. All must obey the first. If on is skipped, not valid.

[@Stess810]

So, my liberties go away if the government says this or that? If the government tells me I can't eat a certain thing or build a swing in my backyard because they say so, I then shouldn't?

[@calhounsusan]

That does seem to be his argument. Didn't God give people brains and free will to choose how to live? I think people should pick their battles wisely. They spend their time and energy fighting for a swing to be put in their backyard they might not have the energy to fight bigger battles.

[@Stess810]

@@calhounsusan Thank you for your reply. Yes, we should pick our battles wisely. It's just, a swing is a small thing but where is the line drawn? It's the swing, then the yard, then it jumps to what I feed my kids and myself and on...who's the government to say no when it's not sinful??

[@calhounsusan]

@@Stess810 True you give them a foot they like to push it to a mile. To honor God by summit to governmental authorities this is what I think is personally ok circumstance in doing what they say. Your not sinning against God by listening to them. Neither is it putting your life at risk or harm by obeying authority by not putting a swing in your backyard. Unlike giving authorities your gun. Pastor Mike might be willing to trust that they aren't going to shot him with his own gun. I am not! It's not me not trusting God. It is me being smart and not testing God. Just because God can save me it doesn't mean I am going to jump off a cliff and hope God saves me. Obviously my own opinion. Obey your conscious! 🙂

[@ArthurMorgansDeadHorse]

@@Stess810 the best advice I could give is a lot of man's made up laws are ungodly and actually evil in the way that they restrict our God given freedoms. Some "laws" just shouldn't be followed. And many of our constitutional rights are being squandered under illegal laws. So really its a Roman's 14 situation. If it doesn't cause you distress and is in line with your conscious then its a gray area. If you know people that it could cause to stumble, dont tell them what you are doing to spare them the conflict.

[@JonHuhnMedical]

Our government is somewhat different from that which Paul was under at the time. The Constitution is what we submit to, not elected officials. If our elected officials defy the Constitution, we're actually submitting to our authority (the Constitution) by rebelling against them.

[@bradleyperry1735]

That's a loophole you're trying to jump through. The ideals upon which the United States is founded are violations of God's commands. The US is founded on the ideal that authority is derived from the consent of the governed. This is the opposite of what Scripture tells us.

[@calhounsusan]

@@bradleyperry1735 Totally disagree. The constitution is the law of the land and the elected officials are disobeying it. It's kinda like the Mosaic law. God gave Israel a law. He established a nation. The law of the land. It was up to the people to obey the law. Now if Mose had gone off book, should the people of Israel rise up and make someone else the leader? Someone who would implement God's law he gave. I think so! I have no doubt that God helped to establish America. He help free the foundling Fathers from tyranny and from death. He helped the founding fathers establish a nation that was more save and just. People come to America to escape to safety. To get away from unjustified executions and beheadings. To have the freedom to worship God. There are Christians in China that are disobeying their government. They have established christian churches underground. People have the freedom to move and live under whatever government they choose. There are plenty of countries that are ran by socialism governments- Obeying a dictator. If they don't like the law of the American government they can leave.

[@bradleyperry1735]

calhounsusan The nation was founded by masons and deists. Even the actual Christians were Unitarians by and large. Traditional, orthodox Christians were few and far between. Satan was the first rebel and schismatic. America at its roots is revolutionary. This is explicitly anti-Christian.

[@snippletrap]

@@bradleyperry1735 Even so, we are in a position where the Constitution is the highest law, and the authorities are rebelling against it. Shall we submit to rebels?

[@bradleyperry1735]

snippletrap Who are we to judge that? Who are we to declare the law of the land can’t be changed?

[@jacobhargiss9909]

In the US, we are a nation by the people, for the people whose government is selected from among the people. So, since God choses the lowest to be the authority of the nations, what does that say about us? Surely we, the people, are low indeed.

[@jsmith5443]

Mike, I agree with you. Choose the lesser evil.

[@khammer81]

Can we be consistent with submission to the human institution (verse 13) if we are submitting to the Constitution as the law of the land. Constitution = human institution = ultimate authority. Peter and Paul were not under Constitutional republics. Nero had the final say for the empire, where the constitution has the final say for us. I personally can reconcile this with my conscious as the founding framework (human institution) explicitly allows it... "That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government" -Dec of Indep. Governments have risen and fallen since instituted after the flood. God uses many vehicles to bring this about and humans are one of them. Now that is not saying we always resort to violence. Regarding the American revolution, the people had a contract with the King. The King broke the contract by not protecting them from the hostile and oppressive British Government. I believe the colonies were within the grounds of their contract they had with the King to defend themselves. Are these contractual obligations written out before us? I do not think it would be wrong to disobey government positions/persons that step outside of the constitutional authorities instituted by the founding fathers. To obey something that is not constitutional would cause us disobey the constitution as a human institution. i.e. submit to one rogue gov position means to NOT submit to another. The Supreme court precedent is that unconstitutional laws are not enforceable, or should not be at least. I also believe I am biblically mandated to protect my wife and children, that my #1 earthly responsibility is my wife, and then my children. So if the government would try to take away my ability to protect and provide for my family I would have to refuse. Again, it does not have to be violent. And then of course we always would have to submit to the authority of the consequences of our actions. I pray that God can bring us wisdom an discernment on issues like these through deep prayer. I struggled with this after studying this passage but my heart is at peace now. verse 17 says "Love the brotherhood." We as a church should be loving to other believers who may conclude differently on this issue that may not be so clear black and white as Mike said.

[@sylleryum]

Very good

[@AR15andGOD]

It's strange to think paying a hitman to kill someone is a sin but giving people money so they can have their baby killed isn't, it's hard to see the lines in this case. I'll keep listening

[@WellTaughtProf]

This video is as relevant as ever! Russians and Ukrainians are at war against each other 😱😭 nations with common history, with friends and relatives in both countries 😱😭 please pray for our nations! Please pray our Lord would stop this madness 🙏

[@goesthadistance]

Thank you.

[@larrysergent5478]

If the mindset at the time of our revolution was "no taxation without representation", it would appear our revolution was not Godly or biblical. Would not Jesus have said "render your the king of England the things of the king"?

[@bradleyperry1735]

It wasn't Godly or biblical.

[@snippletrap]

@@bradleyperry1735 It was Masonic, like the French Revolution after it.

[@bradleyperry1735]

snippletrap Yep.

[@graftme3168]

@@WeatherMoon Every single nation that ever existed has done evil. Slavery existed in every single nation also. The difference is that America is the first nation that WORKED toward it's abolision and even accomplished it! Because our founders relied on God and His ways, God blessed America with leadership in the world. No nation has ever been perfect, but America was driven by godly principles and received blessings from God because of that fact. We stopped receiving blessings when the Liberals took God and His principles out of government! We were going uphill until then. It's been downhill ever since!

[@graftme3168]

It's my understanding that the king didn't keep his end of the contract, so they were justified in rebelling against him. So, if our officials don't keep their end of the contract (the Constitution) we have a right to stand against their unconstitutional laws or actions. However, eventually, the constitution is going to become null and void (even if unconstitutionally). Someone is going to usurp authority, which is the plan of the Dems, and I think there will come a point where God would tell us to submit rather than rebel. God used evil governments for His own plan and purpose, and if it is His will, nobody will stop it, whether they rebel or not. His plan will stand, and rebellion against His plan is rebellion against God Himself. He is the ultimate power, and nothing will stop Him. I would not want to find myself fighting against God's plan and purposes!

[@20Hikecdt23]

Please have a microphone mic for the audience to make questions.

[@joshuacavender1536]

The problem with conscience is that everyone has one.

[@shanisebastianmalorgio6787]

Hey Mike. Thank you for all your videos and for guiding me towards Jesus. I have a question regarding this issue. How can I interpret unjust laws that limit ones freedom? Should I obey them? Should I just not one them? Let's say for example if a government limits freedom of speech. It's difficult for me to understand where they stand as I see myself as a born free man in God's will. I might be bias, I just want to seek truth and follow Jesus even if that would mean giving up my beliefs. Thanks!!

[@tnt0northtravelministriest627]

Love God with all your heart, love neighbor as self. If it is proper to deceive govt out of love for my neighbor; Love neighbor as self, not govt.

[@deannachapman5411]

Does Mike ever answer this distinction about the Constitution being law and not those with power illegally enforcing their own agenda? I would love to hear his thoughts on this ..

[@MWebb-de9pq]

Watching through it now. But I agree, most pastors fail to recognize this structure of the US. The US constitution is the next Supreme authority below God. Our government is to submit to it and if not doing so is acting illegally. We the people are required to throw off such Government. So if we are to submit to earthly authority ours says it's our duty to throw off the corrupt government.

[@ahrenmartin3524]

Small correction: anarchists believe in rules; they do not believe in rulers.

[@golvic1436]

Not all the time. There are different anarchist beliefs. There are most certainly hedonistic anarchists and they are about an annoying as you suspect they are. Thankfully they are all talk and no conviction.

[@tnt0northtravelministriest627]

I will NOT submit to a law by man, if it is Contrary to God Word!

[@Isaacmoilliet]

I appreciate this, but… The Greek word in the Bible does not mean to be subservient to the government, or submissive, or to even submit. It means to have social orderliness. I do not believe we as Christians are to submit as some say.

[@LALady1]

Paul told them we are to obey God not man!

[@graftme3168]

But, obeying God means obeying the authority he put over us! Only when we are forced to do evil against God's ways are we to rebel. Jesus said to do what the authorities tell you to do, but don't become like them. Obeying government doesn't mean you agree with them or think like them. The Bible says to submit to authority even if they are tyrannical. Jesus did. The apostles did. I think we need to determine the reason for our rebellion. Is it to follow Christ and the way of the cross? Or, is it pride and arrogance? The Bible calls rebellion "witchcraft." What is the intent of the heart? God doesn't need us to fight for His plan and purpose. He will accomplish it either way. Will our rebellion testify of Jesus to a lost world? The goal is the glory of God, not our own glory. That is where every man's conscience is set before God to determine it's intent. Let every man be convinced in his own mind whether he seeks to glorify God or man. Only God knows, and the man who seeks to bring HIM the glory. Are we known as lovers of God? It will show in what we do.

[@ArthurMorgansDeadHorse]

@@graftme3168 yes but not all authority above us is of God! Satan is rendered to as the king of this world. He told Jesus that he would give him everything if he bowed to him.... We have a brain and must use it. For example God did not put Biden as president. Or Trump before him. To think that God is controlling every aspect of our lives and our government is wrong.

[@graftme3168]

@@ArthurMorgansDeadHorse To think that God is NOT controlling everything is foolish.

[@TinkerBell-bt6vu]

@@graftme3168 God is always in unltimate control, but He still does allow free will and won't control oir individual actions of choices at all times.

[@graftme3168]

@@TinkerBell-bt6vu I don't disagree.

[@Costumekiller]

Yes but there is a hierarchy is there not. So God first, then in the US the constitution, then governors.

[@ibelieve3111]

Hey

[@elliottedwards7778]

Of course God's law is supreme. As Americans we have the first laws that was here before any new laws that might come. We have the constitution. 2 amendment and our right to over throw a tyrannical government?

[@ArthurMorgansDeadHorse]

You are correct

[@graftme3168]

So far. But, eventually the Dems will usurp authority, if it is God's will, and I think God would expect us to go along with His plan, rather than fight against Him.

[@elliottedwards7778]

@@graftme3168 yes but we also called to stand up for the week and right now America and her people are looking pretty week. Christians have conceded too much ground that's why we are in the predicament we're in. We are to rebuke evil if I'm correct, not stand by and watch it happen. And of course I'm being clear that I'm not making any calls to violence.

[@katewalsh3413]

Paying taxes that is use by our government to support abortion is something I have a very hard time with conscience. Is there such a thing as conscientious objective to justify not supporting our current anti-constitutional government in power?

[@goldengaming177]

Was it a righteous duty for churches to remain open during covid?

[@mccalltrader]

I would recommend some “wall builders” with David Barton...he has actual letters and historical documents made by Jefferson..to include the misunderstood “Jefferson bible”..both of them..to draw conclusions from TJ was much more religious and Christian than modern revisionists claim and need him to be..Ive despised TJ for years, decades even, because of the lies and misinformation from the left co-opting TJ to support their narrative...TJ would have been astounded that people got him so wrong..and his letters from his own hand, prove that...wall builders and David Barton have them

[@sisterjoplaintalk555]

What about the vaccine if it be mandated

[@acem82]

1. Genesis 9:6 did create a governing structure, technically called a "government" because it governed behavior, but not what we call "government" today (more accurately called "the State", the thing that taxes and demands a monopoly on the use of force within a geographical region). It was as much a government as God gave the Israelites during the time of the judges, prior to 1 Samuel 8 (when they asked for "the State"). There was no taxation, and the social structures - shared laws and respect for elders - kept order and ensured justice. All that Genesis 9:6 did was give humans the authority to ensure justice was done on the Earth, "an eye for an eye" and whatnot. 2. Most of the prominent Founders of the US were Theistic Rationalists, not Deists. 3. While there are a few select people who are what you described as "anarchists", that seems incorrect (I'd call it a "straw man" if this were a debate) of anarchy, especially Christian anarchy. Anarchy simply means "without Archon" (without ruler, same root word as used in "monarchy"). For Christians, that obviously means a human ruler. Note, this, again, applies to much of God's preferred method of governance, the times of the judges, before the people demanded a king (the State). Also, given the limited power the judge had (as far as we can tell, no taxation, no executive power, and no legislative power), calling them an "Archon" would be incorrect. Just like the time of the judges, anarchy doesn't mean no rules, not even no governance, just no State. There is always something governing behavior. 4. The view of "You can only disobey government when it requires you to sin" is the common one, but it's also demonstrably wrong. Ignoring the Maccabees, the American Revolution, and Bonhoeffer, there are Biblical examples of people rebelling without being forced to sin and being commended for it. a. The best example would be Abram's fight against the 4 kings (who were all authorities). They had kidnapped Lot while fighting really bad people from Sodom and Gomorrah. Abram got his men together, attacked them, and defeated them, rescuing Lot. Then Melchizedek blessed Abram in his victory. The 4 kings never required Abram to do anything sinful, and Abram didn't just disobey their authority, he attacked them, and was blessed by God for it! b. Rahab disobeyed the authorities of Jericho when she hid the spies and allowed them to escape. It would have been no sin of hers to have nothing to do with them. She was directly blessed by God for this, an ancestor of Jesus! c. Ehud assassinated the king of Moab. It appears that God specifically put Moab in charge of the Israelites to punish them. Wasn't that their government? Wasn't Rome the government in 1st century Israel? Ehud killed the king and then brought an army and defeated the Moabites. While it doesn't say the Lord endorsed this, it does say the Lord sent him. In fact, pretty much every judge defeated the authority in one way or another. It doesn't say that those authorities were making the Israelites sin. d. David (I'm assuming) disobeyed Saul when he ran away and refused to die. Saul never tried to make David sin. e. Jereboam (I'm assuming) disobeyed Solomon when he ran away and refused to die. f. Jehoiada commited treason by hiding Joash from Queen Athaliah and crowned him king. She never made him sin. g. Elijah (I'm assuming) disobeyed Ahab and Jezebel when he slew the prophets of Baal. Ahab called him “the worst troublemaker in Israel”. I don't see where they required him to sin, though one might say he was a prophet and doing anything else than what he did would have been sin. h. Daniel flagrantly disobeyed the king of Persia's command not to pray! He could have done it inside his house without anyone noticing and had not sinned (in my opinion). 5. Should believers serve the State? That depends, if you think that doing part of a sin is a sin, then no, you really can't. Why? Because the State steals (it taxes, by definition). If you volunteer to serve it, you are endorsing that theft. If you have authority in it, then you are assenting to that theft. If you vote for taxation, then you are directly stealing from others. Remember, the first step in taxation is wanting something enough to take it (coveting). Then comes the actual theft. And, it that theft is resisted, then comes violence, even up to murder. By my count, that's 3 of the 10 commandments violated, and only 6 of them deal with your relationships with other people. Now, if you are forced into your position, I think the Biblical record is clear, serve as well as you can. Don't forget, God's preferred method of governance had NO taxation, and that taxation was in the list of God's warnings to the people when they insisted on having a king. Lastly, note that "following orders" or simply belonging to a large organization doesn't allow you to offload your moral requirements onto someone else. 6. Having studied this subject for a very long time, yes, there is no easy answer as to when to disobey. Remember that the early believers were mostly "pacifists" (wouldn't fight for their human rulers) until the whole "Christian" thing was pretty much co-opted by Constantine; only then did Christians decide they liked human power and start oppressing others with it. 7. I think the answer here is something I'm realizing in the difference between the Hebrew culture and ours, in that we think rules come first and they thought relationships come first. The question I kept asking is, "Why didn't God just say precisely when we should rebel?" I think the answer is, "Because that's not the point." We are to put God first, period. We are to serve him and increase his fame. We are to do everything for his glory and seek first his Kingdom. Hence, the answer might be simple, prayerfully do what you are convicted serves God best. We may end up disagreeing, and that's actually OK. Love him first, and you'll be fine.

[@avivastudios2311]

Let me address one point. Saul was a jerk and was being tormented by demons at the time.

[@avivastudios2311]

The part about Lot: kidnapping someone is bad. I think it was even punishable by death in the time of Moses. It makes sense that God didn't mind the kidnappers being attacked.

[@acem82]

@@avivastudios2311 Yes. That's because the governing authority supersedes what the State might claim when they claim a monopoly on it. Ergo, State actors are morally responsible for their behavior and under certain circumstances they can be held to account by non-State actors for their injustices.

[@jamesjahavey1681]

1 John 2:17 Furthermore, the world is passing away and so is its desire, but the one who does the will of God remains forever. Daniel 2 : 44 Is the Christ Devided?

[@tnt0northtravelministriest627]

If it govt represented nation we'd have one scotus. We statistically only have 33% professing Christians in our nation.

[@danwilson5630]

Would you have submitted to slave owners or nazis? Surely authority would get corrupted if no one challenged it?

[@fishmurse]

Was the rebellion against the empire in Star Wars Biblical?

[@daniellekidd1478]

If we aren’t supposed to murder how is assassination okay?

[@marktisdale7935]

@Danielle Kidd There is a difference between killing someone and murdering someone. You are ignoring the difference, assassination is typically used as an act of war and thus falls under killing not murder. If you do not acknowledge that then you are wanting to say that soldiers are nothing more than murders in the pay of a government.

[@daniellekidd1478]

Mark Tisdale Don’t put words in my mouth. It was just a question.

[@marktisdale7935]

@Danielle Kidd I wasn't putting words in your mouth, I was responding to the logic of your question.

[@daniellekidd1478]

I’m sorry you made it sound like I was disrespecting our soldiers or like that is what I was trying to say

[@marktisdale7935]

@Danielle Kidd Don't get things twisted I gave a decade of my life to this country, went to war 4 times for this country. I have no problem with killing for my country, but that like that us the same as murdering people which is what you did, is not the same thing. I would have assassinated any foreign leader if they threatened my country.

[@tanenbenkavod1519]

How can government be "flawed" if it is SET, APPROVED and ALLOWED by GOD himself? Are you insinuating common christian LAWLESS REBEL has more common sense then God? You gonna tell God that you find his government "flawed"? How arrogant is that? One would expect that from bandits who are named "sons of anarchy", but it is also found in "sons of Jesus"? YEAH RIGHT, Jesus never knew YOU! That is the truth.

[@dazzadirt8710]

Good point

[@TinkerBell-bt6vu]

All you have to do is read the Old Testament and see that there were MANY kings of Israel (not only in pagan nations but in Israel itsself) and it just keeps going on saying "and this king was worse than the last, and this king was even worse than the one before" etc. The people begged for a King, God did not want that for them, because they had a nation where God Himself was their God and King and authority. Yet they continued to beg so God turned them over to a human kingship, and let the chips fall where they may. He warned them that if they had a king like the other nations things would not necessarily be better for them in any way because they would be led by flawed, imperfect, sinful human beings rather than God as King. And so there were good kings and bad kings and even worse kings. But God cannot/will not take our free will away and so the kings all had free will and many became corrupted by the power. That is how it is flawed, because instead of being led by the One and only true King - God Himself, it is run by flawed, sinful, imperfect men. It's not that complicated really

[@shnobo9471]

I have a question though if nazi's came to your door looking for Jews which you had there. And you say they are not there wouldnt that be sinning by lying?

[@dakotacoker4194]

What's worse lying or not loving your fellow man

[@gabesantamaria3805]

Lot lied to protect the angels in Sodom and God saved him from the destruction of the city.

[@calhounsusan]

A wrong doesn't justify the means. If you say, "no" are you really doing it for the Jew or to protect yourself? There is a chance if you say, "yes" they might kill you too for providing shelter to a Jew. You say, "no" than there is a chance that they won't kill you, but just leave. In the great country of America we have the right to refuse them access to our homes. So question I would be asking the nazi, "where is your warrant?" Lol

[@shnobo9471]

calhounsusan fo sho honestly I would let the Jews know that if nazis came looking and asked I wouldn’t be allowed to lie but would defend them with my life in hopes they would get away. If they choose to stay with someone else I wouldn’t ask where they went because I wouldn’t want to give them away.

[@snippletrap]

Rahab lied and was commended

[@charleswest6372]

Should have been revolution long ago like the 70s.

[@adechalus]

I thought we should follow the laws of man unless it conflicts with Gods law like giving allegiance to their kingdom or joining the military

[@bradleyperry1735]

There is nothing wrong with joining the military or even being patriotic. At no point did Christians ever believe this, nor does Scripture tell us these things.

[@ArthurMorgansDeadHorse]

@@bradleyperry1735 Christians should be very careful to be overly patriotic... Nationalism is akin to cult mindset. We should support our nation but not be so attached to it as to completely believe in everything the nation is doing is righteous.

[@graftme3168]

@@ArthurMorgansDeadHorse I don't know of any Christian that would think that. Part of being patriotic is that we consider ALL the people and what is best for the people as a whole. False patriotism considers only what benefits a few.

[@TinkerBell-bt6vu]

The bible doesn't say anything about not joining the military. In fact Jesus taught the soldiers to be good soldiers. But yes, God set up the government and put those in authority over us, and we are to obey the laws of the land even if we don't like it, as long as it does not contradict the commandments of God. If it comes to a choice we are always to choose God's commands.

[@gerberdaisy2388]

I love your preaching Mike and learn a lot from you and your research. It would have been so encouraging if the men had of asked questions. I know men need more time to process in situations such as this, and don't get the opportunity because women generally don't think about giving space to their masculine brothers to move in the way they were created. Nothing against you, per se - I just find it so discouraging when believers (femininity) "takes liberty" with their freedom by charging forward. I generally view all your sermons until the end, but I couldn't on this one.

[@emmagoodwin3198]

I’m just curious...could you elaborate on what you mean here?

[@bryanbulmer6716]

You offended someone

[@themagicalducklings]

I wonder if Mike's church obeyed Gov. Newsom's order to close church...

[@ArthurMorgansDeadHorse]

@agiflow exactly we have to stand our ground AGAINST government

[@graftme3168]

@@ArthurMorgansDeadHorse We don't stand against government because God Himself formed government as a way of life on this earth. We may be justified in rebelling against certain laws they put in place, but rebelling against the institution of government is against God's will.

[@sarahsays194]

Just started watching the video but am definitely interested. The insurrection attempt obviously pops up in the mind. Conclusion: Biblical reason why January 6th was indeed bad.

[@FRN2013]

Trump's egomaniacal delusions inspire a _lot_ of bad. DeSantis/Pence 2024!

[@snorman1911]

You talking about the people walking around with flags? Insurrection? Huh?

[@FRN2013]

People with guns walking around with flags. Breaking into the Capitol building.

[@sarahsays194]

@@snorman1911 I'd say when someone builds a scaffold, brings zip ties with the confirmed plans from the FBI to at the very least kidnap and at most kill various Congress members if they can get their hands on them, breaking into federal property and destroying federal property, and the reason of being there is to overturn the democratic system of voting? I'd call that an insurrection. And we now have plenty of video evidence from all throughout the day that shows it was so much more than "people walking around with flags." We know there are plenty of people who were in that crowd that went there with the intent to storm the Capital, not for peaceful protest.

[@TinkerBell-bt6vu]

@@FRN2013 if you see the video, the police were removing barricades and u locking doors for them to have entry also. Also it is the HOUSE OF THE PEOPLE, if you cannot protest there where can you protest? There was no violence. Having a gun does not equal you being a violent person, nor is it illegal to open carry. The only person who died was an unarmed veteran who was shot by the capitol police. It was a protest.

[@LisaDixon-g1u]

Very weak submission teaching here. Usually agree with Winger but his dealing on submission to government was not well covered from a Biblicalnor logical bases. He really needs to look into it more. Inconsistent teaching. Too bad as its an important topic in todays world.

[@jamesjahavey1681]

Why is it you do not do what Daniel did and be faithful to the ONE TRUE GOD through we know who do we not?

[@joshuasalcedo3630]

B-

[@hueysimon2726]

Jesus never paid a Roman tax. He paid the Jewish temple tax to the temple he was going to teach. And for some reason, even you apparently, never finish that verse. Render unto Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and unto God that which belongs to God. So, answer this, what belongs to God. As a pastor, I'm sure you know where to find a few places in the bible that tells us what belongs to God. The Earth and everything in it. So Jesus' answer had a different meaning depending on the listener. The people taught by Jesus understood that God owns everything, while the rest believed that Caesar owned the money because his face was on it. Taxation, by definition is extortion and theft. Nothing about a government tax is Godly. There is no good in government. Governments are the dominion of Satan, given to him by God, as described in Luke 4. The reason you submit to government is to avoid punishment, like extortion. Most of the laws government create violate our natural rights granted to us by God.