December 09, 2007 

“Choosing Christian Leaders”  In his letter to the Roman believers, Paul commanded that "...every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God" (Rom 1:1, ESV). At face value, this comment seems very perplexing. Would God put someone like Adolf Hitler, Saddam Hussein, or Ahmadinejad in power? I don't think so. Then what does Paul mean when he says "there is no authority except from God" and that every power has "been instituted by God"? I believe this statement relates directly to our free will. God does not treat us like puppets, but rather allows us to choose our leaders. If we choose bad leaders, we get bad leaders (1 Sam 8:22, 15:11). If we elect good leaders, we get good leaders. Who do you want to be in authority over you? Choose wisely and prayerfully!