Management 2

Romans 13:7

There are occasions when the topic of Christian seclusion arises. When we see the problems and evils in society we may be tempted to remove ourselves from our community. Some people will even point to various religious groups who live in reclusive compounds and secluded communities.

This passage from Paul’s letter to the believers in Rome makes it clear what we are to do as part of society. What should be our attitude?

Many Christians believe it best to remove ourselves from the temptations of the world and to exclude ourselves from our society. But I believe that we are called to be part of our society, without falling to the temptations or involving ourselves in the corruption of our society.

A frequent perception of Jesus is that he was a rebel against the rules of society. The same thinking could apply to his early followers and the beginnings of the church. But, in fact, there is sufficient evidence to show that Jesus and those who helped establish the First Century church were actually very much in favor of a stable society. And that meant being involved in the various aspects and activities of that society.

The same, of course, is true of us as well. We are to be part of our community and our society, and that means taking part in the obligations involved. We cannot excuse ourselves from our community and refuse to support it with taxes. We should not expect everything to be handed to us freely. When we owe money, we need to pay it.

The same is true for simply functioning in our society. We may disagree with some of our leaders and we may disagree with some of the laws and rules we encounter every day. However, we are clearly called to give the proper respect and honor to those in authority. We are called to obey the rules.

To be able to function in our society we will need to establish some financial security so that we are able to pay what is owed – taxes, revenue, respect.

DAILY CHALLENGE: How are you involved in your community?