Rulers
“Prince, chief, one who has dominion”
Summary
Rulers in Scripture encompass various authorities—judges, kings, governors, and elders—all of whom derive their authority from God and are accountable to Him for its exercise.
☩Divine Origin of Authority
Scripture teaches that governing authority comes from God. Paul declares that 'there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.' This applies to all forms of legitimate authority—whether judges in Israel, kings, governors, or the diverse rulers of the Gentile nations. Because authority derives from God, those who resist rulers resist God's ordinance.
☩Responsibilities of Rulers
Rulers bear weighty responsibilities before God. They are to be ministers of God for good, executing wrath upon evildoers and commending those who do right. They must judge righteously, defend the poor and fatherless, and not take bribes or show partiality. The ideal ruler—ultimately fulfilled in Christ—brings justice, peace, and prosperity to his people.
☩The Believer's Response
Christians are commanded to honor and submit to governing authorities as a matter of conscience, not merely to avoid punishment. This includes paying taxes, rendering honor, and praying for those in authority. Yet when human commands contradict God's commands, believers must obey God rather than men. The ultimate ruler is Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords, before whom every knee will bow.
Related Verses350 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Ruler," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IX (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Ruler," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. IV (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.James Hastings (ed.), "Rulers," in Dictionary of the Apostolic Church, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1915–1918).