Subject to Magistrates, and Princes, and Powers, but within the Limits of Discipline: Romans 13,1–7 before the Edict of Constantine the Great

Romans 13:1–7 is among the best-known passages in the New Testament which addresses the submission of early Christians to the ruling powers of the day. Christians are to submit to the governing authorities, for they are ordained by God. Likewise, rebellion against the governing authorities means rebellion against God. Yet Paul has in view only the ideal iteration of governance, in which rulers are “servants of God†and they reward the good and punish the evil. In times of tyranny and persecution, however, later ecclesiastics had to look back at Romans 13:1–7 from a different perspective: should Christians submit to unjust and despotic rulers? The answer that takes shape during the first two centuries of the Christian era is a conditioned “Yes†. The approach of these writers is mainly positive and constructive. Christians are to respect tyrannical rulers at all time, even when they must be resisted. Christians are to obey tyrannical rulers whenever they act justly and in everything that is not contrary to their faith. Christians are to pray for tyrannical rulers sincerely and without ceasing. There are, however, limits to Christians’ submission to governing authorities. They are to resist any demand that goes against “the rules of Christian life†: a ruler that claims the honour that belongs only to God, acts against the will and word of God, or acts under the influence of the devil, is to be resisted. Yet there are also limitations placed on their resistance, as there are limitations placed on their obedience. Christians are to resist tyrannical rulers in a manner that is brave, yet respectful, righteous, and peaceful.