For The Proverbial Palate- 07.05.2008

It is an abomination  to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established in righteousness. Proverbs 16:12

Authority and hierarchy of authority is established by God. A careful study of God’s word shows this same authority and respect for its hierarchy existed even before the foundation of the world. We find that the spiritual realm is established with some type of hierarchy and respect for such. (cf:Jude:9)

So this should not surprise us when we read in Romans 13 that God has ordained authority, that it is established in righteousness and society is to be subject unto it.

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. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 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: 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. Wherefore [ye] must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute [is due]; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. Romans 13:1-7

Another thing we should consider is that those that are in a position of leadership or authority has the responsibility to operate according to the word of God, for that is the cannon that they shall be judged by. This is why the Lord required that the king read and understand the word of God, but more importantly  judge thereby.

And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of [that which is] before the priests the Levites: And it shall be with him, and he shall read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the LORD his God, to keep all the words of this law and these statutes, to do them: That his heart be not lifted up above his brethren, and that he turn not aside from the commandment, to the right hand, or to the left: to the end that he may prolong his days in his kingdom, he, and his children, in the midst of Israel. Deut. 17:18-20

When a king, president or anyone in a position of leadership moves to the right or to the left of God’s standard, then they have corrupted the position of authority that was “established in righteousness” and they will give an account one day.

Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking savour: so doth a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom and honour. A wise man’s heart is at his right hand; but a fool’s heart at his left. Eccl. 10:1-2

malachi

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