Have Authority Issues?

Romans 13:1 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.

When I was a grandparent and the father of teenagers at the same time all living under the same roof, I learned some timeless lessons about authority and rebellion.

As you are most probably doctrinally aware, we are "born in sin". My grandson was born perfect, as I'm sure every other grandpa knows. But, I did noticed something very interesting about his behavior. This little bundle of joy, who made my joy complete when he smiled, or slept on my chest, or did any other of the brilliant things he did, was very self-centered, even though he was extremely dependent and needed us all for everything.

You may think it odd to describe an eight-week old as self-centered, but he really was. He wasn’t much help, and though he was a bundle of joy, his demands were at the top of the priority list around my place. Everybody likes babies and in little doses they are especially precious. But, this little fella, he got us all just about where he wanted us, if you know what I mean.

Can you explain to me why he found such ultimate joy in making a mess? Did we somehow reward him with too much attention and he thought this was the greatest laughing matter? No, he was just humored somehow by the whole process. I don't remember being this age but in watching him, I miss it. He cried for whatever he wanted and got it (as well he should have). But was this the beginning of the rebellion that I only hoped was ending for my teenagers?

He certainly was a picture of human nature at work. What should I expect? After all, he was 'born in sin', right? Yes, absolutely. Once we adjust our expectations to the realities, we can more easily understand why people are the way they are.

Here is my point this day about authority. The three areas of sin that are so pervasive for us seem to be, selfishness, laziness and rebellion. And, they all seem to be built into our persona from birth. Therefore, by nature, we are in conflict with "authority", which, by definition, seeks control over all these things. So, whatever are we to do; are we seemingly doomed to conflict and trouble? But alas, we have a Savior who can change our perspective on everything, even help us to control our nature. As Christians we can choose to obey, even though by nature, we are set on disobedience. Isn't that wonderful?

So, in conclusion, I have advice for everybody. Grandma and Grandpa, enjoy knowing that all things are very much in His hands. Step back and breathe deep. Moms and Dads, remember that you cannot shelter your children completely from the world, but you can improve their opportunities with God's help and Word. Teens, someday you will understand that you don't know everything or even very much. Listen to what you are being told; it will save you time and pain. Children, obey your parents knowing that it is the Lord who is raising you through them. Babies, keep crying and laughing and keeping us all honest and real.

I think the most important lesson about authority is that God is in control; His truths are absolute and everything and everybody else has to be kept in gracious perspective. Let's all remember where we came from and where we are going. Hope you gained some insight from these observations, I did.

In Him for quite a long time,
Pastor Fred

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