7/2/14 Knox and government

We confess and acknowledge that empires, kingdoms, dominions, and cities are appointed and ordained by God; the powers and authorities in them, emperors in empires, kings in their realms, dukes and princes in their dominions, and magistrates in cities, are ordained by God's holy ordinance for the manifestation of his own glory and for the good and well being of all men. We hold that any men who conspire to rebel or to overturn the civil powers, as duly established, are not merely enemies to humanity but rebels against God's will. (Scots Confession 24)

1Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended (Romans 13)

Thoughts: For those who think the church's main mission is social justice, the Scots Confession and this passage in Romans 13 urges a second thought.  The spiritual nature of the church is brought out.  This may seem ironic to those who think of Knox as the one who helped depose Mary Guise or was in constant conflict with Mary Queen of Scots, and physically fought against Cardinal Beaton. It appears Knox changed his mind about how to work with and against authorities.  I believe Knox's statement in the confession goes along with the way Jesus reacted to Rome and Caesar.  

Prayer: Lord, help me to render to Caesar what is Caesar's and to you what is yours.