Within the context of the Bible, governing holds a special place, embodying a variety of aspects that dictate the ways in which societies should function, leaders should act, and authority is granted by God. This summary provides a concise overview of the various dimensions of governing discussed in the Bible.
What is the Biblical View of Authority and Governing?
In the Bible, governing is seen as an act or role bestowed by God upon chosen individuals or entities. Whether it is a king, judge, or another authority, they are seen as God’s tools to ensure proper order, justice, and societal stability. However, the Bible emphasizes that those in power must exercise their authority righteously, practising fairness, upholding justice, and acting with compassion and integrity. Governing is not about superiority, but about servitude and being a channel of God’s grace to the people they lead.
Who is Called to Govern in the Bible?
In the Bible, anyone in a position of authority has a calling to govern. This extends from heads of state to the community and family level. Kings, judges, priests, and prophets were divine instruments in biblical times, charged with executing judgement righteousness. Similarly, parents are tasked with governing the family responsibly. The Bible’s narrative underscores the principle that all governing powers are instituted by God, and the people in these positions must serve with humility and fear of God.
Why Should Leaders Govern Righteously?
Biblical teachings on governing strongly emphasize the responsibility leaders have to govern righteous. This righteous governance means ruling in a way that is fair, just, transparent, and compassionate. Leaders are urged to put the well-being and welfare of the people above personal agendas or gain. At any level, be it national or domestic, leaders are called to emulate God’s righteousness in their governance. The Bible serves as a guide for leaders, providing blueprints for the exercise of good leadership and governance.
Where is the Need for Justice in Biblical Governance?
One of the key concepts in biblical governance is the administration of justice. The Bible stresses that those who govern should ensure that justice prevails in all their decisions and actions. This includes fair treatment of the people and the creation of laws and systems that are balanced. People in positions of power are urged to aid the marginalized, the poor, the oppressed, and the defenseless. By ensuring justice, leaders fulfil one of the core aspects of biblical governance.
When Should Leaders Reflect Humility?
Biblical teachings advocate for leaders to always maintain humility in their governing roles. From kings and queens to parents, all those in authority are encouraged to lead with modesty, acknowledging that their power and authority is granted by God. This humility also acknowledges the value and worth of the people they lead. The Bible portrays governing as an act of service, demanding that leaders should be servant-like in their approach to governing, showing humility, compassion, and consideration towards the people they are leading.
Below is the full list of bible verses on governing (King James Version – KJV). The list is ranked in order of popularity and we hope you find the inspiration you need.
Most Popular Bible Verses About Governing
Romans 13:1-7
“1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.”
Related Themes: Respecting Your Parents Politics Morality Sovereignty
Romans 13:1
“1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.”
Related Themes: Respecting Your Parents Politics Morality Sovereignty
Acts 5:29
“29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.”
Related Themes: Respecting Your Parents Obedience Morality Pleasing God Politics
1 Peter 2:13-17
“13 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;14 Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.15 For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men:16 As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God.17 Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.”
John 19:11
“11 Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.”
Related Themes: Sovereignty Politics All Sins Being Equal Voting
1 Timothy 2:1-2
“1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.”
1 Peter 2:13-14
“13 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;14 Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.”
Romans 13:7
“7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.”
Related Themes: Money Respecting Your Parents Business Money Finances
Titus 3:1
“1 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,”
Romans 13:4
“4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.”
Related Themes: Justice Retribution Killing Revenge Respecting Your Parents
Romans 13:2
“2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.”
Related Themes: Respecting Your Parents Respect Killing
Proverbs 29:2
“2 When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.”
Related Themes: Humility Pride Voting Politics Leadership
Titus 1:5
“5 For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee:”
Related Themes: Hope Church Leadership
Romans 13:1-5
“1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.”
Related Themes: Respecting Your Parents Politics Morality Sovereignty
John 19:10-11
“10 Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee?11 Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.”
Psalm 33:12
“12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.”
Related Themes: Politics Patriotism Purity
Matthew 22:21
“21 They say unto him, Caesar’s. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s.”
Related Themes: Money
