Steven A. Bush - January 15, 2017
Praying For Our Leaders (Redux)
Paul instructed Timothy about those holding seats of power: "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 God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." (1 Timothy 2:1-4 NIV) Peter echoes the same: "Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king." (1 Peter 2:13-17 NIV) But what makes these directives even more astounding is who was in power during the time--Claudius Caesar Augustus Germanicus, a.k.a. Nero. Nero's reputation for extravagance, tyranny, and ruthlessness make him one of the most notorious rulers of all history. It was Nero in fact who would order the executions of both Peter and Paul. Yet they urged us to pray for such leaders. Lord, help us! But God is sovereign over the nations and their kings, always has been, always will be, and His Kingdom is coming--ready or not. And suffice to say, Peter and Paul will obtain a far better resurrection. May we likewise...