“We must obey God rather than men!” Acts 5:29 (NIV)
The Bible clearly instructs us to obey those who govern over us (Hebrews 13:7, Romans 13:1, Titus 3:1, 1 Peter 2:13). I believe this has been greatly misunderstood and misapplied in the church throughout history. It has caused the church to be passive, submissive, even to the point of losing its impact on society. Remember we are called to be salt and light in a dark decaying world (Matthew 5:13-16). We are in the world but not of it (John 17:16). You see, a tyrannical government that is no longer looking out for the wellbeing of its people is not to be obeyed! Especially when they request us to disobey God! I recall them labeling the Church unessential and preventing people from gathering!
It has been reported that Maui residents who were fleeing the fire attack and chose to defiantly disobey the road barricades that were put up by authorities, survived! Those who were supposed to be there protecting them, were actually setting them up to perish! And get this, the ones who obeyed the law and turned around, perished in the fires! Please understand this, our current illegitimate government is not for us! If a thief steals something are we supposed to act as if they are now the legit owners of it? Of course not!
Reminds me of Peter’s words to the Sanhedrin (Acts 4:19 and 5:29). Bottom line is, we must obey God no matter what others, even those in authority, say about it. Even if it comes with a serious consequence! Whether it is the lockdown mandates or not speaking about certain things, or blindly adhering to the tyrannical laws being passed, we must obey God! Our nation will be saved! And understand this, your resistance is not alone nor in vain!
Please be praying that God would strengthen you for whatever it is going to cost you to obey Him – it could be money, reputation, or even your life. Purpose in your heart right now that you will obey Him instead of man, no matter what! This illegit government will be removed, but it could get even more dark before that happens. Ask God to protect you as you obey Him, to protect your family, your pastor and his family, and your church as the weeks ahead get intense. Thank Him for His faithfulness as a shield in this hour (Psalm 91:4).
