I grew up loving America, its ideals, its heritage, and its hope for the world. However, if they were called to serve, I would advise them to do so with honor. It is insightful to see the reactions of John the Baptist, Jesus Christ, and the apostle Paul, when confronted by the military or the rulers of their day, as well as their comments concerning authority and the state. Jesus did not call upon the centurion to flee the corrupt, occupying government that the soldier represented. Paul used his citizenship to protect himself from the mob and gain access to Roman rulers, and he never openly called for an end to the Roman government.
Governments are necessary because of man s sinful nature.
Even though ancient Rome was unjust and cruel, it established a time of peace and stability that fostered the spread of Christianity throughout the empire. In this century, we have seen much harm done by organized government taking away human freedom. As is so often the case, we are faced with a dilemma. The source of our respect for, and obedience to, our governments must be our relationship to, and faith in, Jesus Christ. I maintain that we must be very careful in using that verse.