The first lesson for last Sunday begins with these words. Unfortunately, the context is not supplied. In the previous verses we learn that Peter and the Apostles had been arrested for violating the direct command of the council: “We strictly charged you not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching” Acts 5:28.
There once was a time in our country when the legal system and the sentiment of our leaders were congenial to Christianity. In fact the Declaration of Independence makes little sense if you read it apart from a Christian context. Regrettably, since the 1950’s Christianity and Christian values have become less and less welcome in the public life of our nation.
While we may long for the time when it was assumed that ours was a Christian nation and the USSR an atheist nation, it is unlikely that those days will return in our lifetimes. What is to be done? It is important to remember that the very roots of Christianity were sprouted in a time of hostile authorities.
When Herod the Great learned of the newborn King of the Jews, he sought to have Him killed. When Jesus is crucified, Pilate places over His head a sign that reads, “Jesus of Nazareth King of the Jews.” Today we learn of Peter and the Apostles arrested for teaching the Christian faith. The last time we hear of St. Paul in Acts, he was under imperial arrest.
How should we live in our current situation? The Augsburg Confession anticipated a day such as ours when it declares: “It is necessary for Christians to be obedient to their rulers and laws. The only exception is when they are commanded to sin” (AC XVI 6–7). The government and laws of the state are there for our good and blessing. As Christians we are bound to obey them, yet we answer to a higher law.
May the Lord grant us His Holy Spirit so that we remain faithful to God. Regardless of public sentiment, may He grant us the boldness of Peter and Paul to proclaim Jesus Christ and Him crucified for the forgiveness of sins. May our faith be strengthened when it is challenged by those in authority.
Prayer: God of the Nations, I pray that you would bless our president, congress and all who have authority to make and enforce laws in our nations. Grant to me the peace that passes all understanding when I am called upon to obey God rather than men.
St. Peter Preaching in the Presence of St Mark
by Fra Angelico
circa 1433
Museo di San Marco, Florence
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Fra_Angelico_-_St_Peter_Preaching_in_the_Presence_of_St_Mark_-_WGA00464.jpg
God’s richest blessings in Christ,
Pastor Philip Quardokus
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