Romans 13:5: Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience’ sake.

Subjection to governing authorities is not only a civil duty enforced by penal statutes, but also a religious duty and part of our obedience to God. Because of conscience—that is, “out of regard to God,” “from conscientious motives.” In a similar way Paul enforces all family and social duties on religious grounds. Children are to obey their parents because it is right in the sight of God, and servants are to be obedient to their masters as unto Christ, doing the will of God from the heart (Ephesians 6:1, 5–6). 1

Application

  • Read Romans 2:14-16 – does your conscience accuse or excuse you?
  • Read 2 Timothy 1:3 – can you say this about yourself?

Prayer

Lord, my desire is to serve You with a pure conscience. Please help me.

1. Hodge, C. (1993). Romans. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.

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Tommy Blumberg

Tommy Blumberg

Tommy Blumberg was ordained as a Calvary Chapel pastor in 1985, where he served as an assistant pastor at Calvary Fellowship, in Seattle. In 1992, Pastor Tom, his wife Pam, and their three daughters moved to Bellingham and began a Bible study, which led to the founding of Calvary Chapel Northwest. Tom blogs regularly at TommyBlumberg.com.