A Clay Jar

Encouraging, comforting, and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory. (1 Thess. 2:12 NIV)

Submitting to the Proper Authority

Matthew 22:21

Published on:

Last Updated on:

Then he said to them, “Give, then, to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”

Matthew 22:21b CSB

In the chain of command, or of authority, managers are arranged in a hierarchical fashion. Non-managers are at the lowest level, and the big boss is at the top. Ultimate authority resides at the top level, with varying levels of delegated authority residing at lower levels. Each level in the hierarchy is responsible for enforcing the policies of the higher levels. But they can add to those policies as appropriate. So long as the additions are not in conflict with what comes down from higher up.

Many people today, as throughout history, think of our human government, represented by Caesar, as being at the top of the chain of command. But Scripture teaches us that there is a level above Caesar. It is God who is the ultimate authority, and Caesar’s authority is delegated from God (Rom. 13:1-7). Jesus tells me to submit to the proper authority. Give to Caesar what is his and to God what is his. But what belongs to Caesar, and what belongs to God?

God has delegated the conduct of human activity to human government. But he has not given them any authority over spiritual matters. So, in matters concerning the physical realm, I live in obedience to my government. But in matters concerning my relationship and walk with God, I obey God. And if the two come in conflict with each other, I obey the higher authority, God.

Additional Related Posts

If you have found value in this post, please consider sharing it with your friends.

Subscribe to A Clay Jar

If you have found value in this post, please consider subscribing to A Clay Jar so that you don't miss any other posts. 

Ed Jarrett

Just an old clay jar that God continues to see fit to use in his kingdom's work. I am retired, married with 2 children, and 4 grandchildren. I have followed Jesus for many years. And I love to share what He has given me from His word.

A Note to Readers

The views expressed here are solely mine and do not necessarily reflect those of any other person, group, or organization. While I believe they reflect the teachings of the Bible, I am a fallible human and subject to misunderstanding. Please feel free to leave any comments or questions about this post in the comments section below. I am always interested in your feedback.

Leave a Comment