Text: Romans 13:1–7
Topic: How we respond to authority

Introduction
• All of us experience conflict with those who have authority over us.
• As Christians dealing with this conflict, we need to focus on who has the authority instead of what they're doing with it.

All authority is established by God.
• In history and in our lives, God works through authorities—even pagan authorities.
• When we resist authority, we are working against God.
     - Illustration: Jesus did not allow Peter to intervene when he was being arrested by Roman
     soldiers.

Rebelling against authority brings judgment from God.
• All authority serves God, whether intentionally or unintentionally.
• We will be punished for rebelling against authority, even if our viewpoint is correct.
• We are responsible to obey our government and pay taxes, even if we disagree with what our government is doing.
     - Illustration: Stanley relates a detailed story of a schoolteacher who gradually learned how
     to deal with misguided authorities.

Obeying authority brings protection through God.
• God uses authorities to correct our mistakes.
     - Illustration: Stanley briefly describes a confrontation with his church board that prevented
     him from building a sanctuary without a baptismal.
• God uses authorities to protect us.

Conclusion
• Submitting to authority will allow God to direct and protect our lives.

For the full text of this sermon, go to "Paying Your Dues."