Religion Discussion

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary (2017) defines crime as “an illegal act for which someone can be punished by the government; especially: a gross violation of law.” By extension, cybercrime is acts that violate laws established by governments at various levels. As we discussed in last week’s devotional, criminals have a purpose for committing the acts they do. More importantly and more often than not, they are knowingly violating the laws and norms of perhaps multiple governments.

In this devotional, we will explore the role and duties of a public servant and of a private citizen. They both are critical components of a functioning society.

Upon successful completion of this discussion, you will be able to:

· Describe the biblically ordained role governments play in our societies.

· Describe the role of private citizens with respect to the government.

· Resources

· Bible

Background Information

Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.

Romans 13:1–4

In Romans 13, the Apostle Paul reminds us that governments are put on this earth by God. Paul goes on to tell us that rebelling against these authorities is also rebelling against God Himself. This passage is a critical reminder that our governments, whether we like them or not, ought to be respected. Additionally, the rules they establish are to be followed, or punishment will follow. It’s important to remember, however, that these governments are administered by humans who, as we learned in Proverbs 4:23, govern by what’s in their hearts. If those hearts are full of pride and self-interest, their governing will focus very little on the average citizen.

This Godly ordination of governments puts a heavy burden on the public servants who are agents of the government. Whether a law enforcement officer, legislator, solider, secretary, or prime minister, the job of a public servant is to set his or her individual biases aside and focus on what's good and right for his or her constituents. Integrity and selflessness are of utmost importance.

Likewise, private citizens have their own responsibilities in their relationship with government. First, they are to obey the laws they are under. They are also called to respect the offices of those appointed over them, even if they do not like the individuals in those offices. Lastly, they should be active participants in their relationship with their government.

Instructions

1. Review the rubric to make sure you understand the criteria for earning your grade.

2. Read Romans 13:1–4.

3. Navigate to the threaded discussion and respond to the following prompts:

a. Describe how you could improve your engagement with your government at the local, state, or federal level.

b. What role do you feel a public servant’s faith should play in how he or she governs?