In the last year, we have watched a number of riots take place and are now hearing people say that our country is falling into chaos. They say we have lost control, and our country is too far gone to mend or to save it. Some believe that ethnic backgrounds and poverty are to blame for the majority of the problems concerning violent behavior towards law enforcement. I believe they are incorrect on both counts. While poverty may be an issue of frustration, and ethnic background may be used to fracture communities, the breakdown of the home and the lack of respect for authority is the true story behind the violence. I have never been shot by law enforcement. Then again, if a police officer gives me an order, I do as he says. I was raised to respect my parents (Ephesians 6:1). From there I learned to respect teachers, officers of the law and ultimately God.
The problem of rebellion in the church today is very real. While not manifested by throwing rocks and burning down buildings, its destruction is far worse in that congregations split and souls are lost. When one speaks about authority of the Word of God or of elders, many do not understand what that means. I have been asked, “What do you mean by authority?” This is why congregations are falling into sinful practices. There is no longer a desire to find authority for what we do, but rather, we have replaced authority with a rebellious “I want to do this or that.” This anarchist spirit regarding God’s authority will be the ruin of many souls. Consider God’s view of authority and obedience.
Saul was punished for his disregard for authority when he chose to obey only part of God’s commands concerning the Amalekites (1 Samuel 15). His disobedience led to this statement by Samuel, “Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the Word of the Lord, He also has rejected you from being king” (22-23).
We need to get back to teaching authority in the pulpit, in the classrooms and in the home (Ephesians 6:1-4)! Hebrews 13:17 reads, “Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls as those who must give account…” The only exception to the rule concerning obeying the authority of any person (be it parents, teachers, elders, police officers) is if they command you to do something that is against the Word of God (Acts 5:28-29). Teaching on authority and respect for those in a position of authority is how we can take back our homes, congregations and impact this country.
