Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed, to malign no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing every consideration for all men.
— TITUS 3:1-2 —
Edwin T. Mollasgo: The Expositor’s Academy | Philippines
This passage reminds us of how we should conduct our lives in the midst of a fallen world. We are reminded of our responsibilities toward God’s ordained rulers and authorities. We are to be subject to them, obedient, and always ready to do good. Christians must consider these things especially when the government is imperfect. Being keepers of law and order will help to promote good government and aid their work as governmental officials. It is wrong for us to express righteous indignation in ways that reveal hatred against people. Being faithful to keep those duties can be difficult because earthly rulers are often corrupt, unjust, failing to accomplish God’s purpose for government. This makes it easy for Christians to fall into the pattern of the world and respond by maligning, complaining, and acting in rebellion against the government. Many people use the shortcomings of the government to make excuses and seek ways to get around obeying the government’s authority or fulfilling their civic duties. As Christians, this should not be. God calls us to be the salt and light of the world, so we should function as law-abiding citizens and good neighbors. Our good deeds may keep them from maligning the gospel and might even serve to attract them to Christ. Rather than slandering anyone, we must be peaceable and gentle, showing wholehearted courtesy to all people. It is right to hate the sin, to be angry at the sinfulness that undermines the fabric of our society, but it is wrong for us to express righteous indignation in ways that reveal hatred against people.
