Christians are to submit to authorities (Romans 13:1-7, 1Peter 2:13-16), honor the king (1Peter 2:17), and pray for the authorities (1Timothy 2:1-2). Other activities mentioned under these categories are respecting those in power, obeying the law (unless it conflicts with obeying Christ), and paying due revenue as well as mandatory taxes. These are the civic responsibilities of the Christian person according to scripture.
1Timothy 2:1-8
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases G-D our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. For there is one G-D and one mediator between G-D and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all men—the testimony given in its proper time... I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing.
Here is a healthy example of what prayer for authorities looks like:
…Thou, O Ruler, has given them the power of government through thy majesty and unutterable might so that we acknowledge the honor and dignity given to them by thee, may be subject to them without opposing thy will in anything. Grant to them, O Lord, health, peace, concord, and firmness so that they may administer without offense the government which thou hast given them! Or thou, O heavenly ruler, king of the ages, hast given to the children of men glory and dignity and authority over the things which are on earth. Do thou, O Lord, direct their counsels according to that which is good and pleasing in thy sight so that they may with reverence exercise the authority Though has granted hem, peacefully and benevolently, without violence, and thus obtain thy mercy.
- First Letter of Clement 61
My hope is that we will not pray for our personal ideals of health care, foreign policy, marriage restrictions, and taxation to come about but that G-D’s kingdom may come and his will be done here on Earth (and where we live) just as it is in heaven. May we be conformed to the kingdom and our authorities live up to their purpose as laid out by our Father to bless those who do good, punish the wicked, and bring about justice.
As we ready ourselves to pray may we embrace the difficult mantra "...not my will, but yours be done" (especially when we think we are right).
