Honour the King

In the modern world most heads of state are politicians who managed to be elected by popular vote. This did not happen in the ancient world when most were military leaders using force, or royalty inheriting the position from family members.

Christianity had begun in Palestine where the Roman Empire held sway and where Roman soldiers enforced submission to Roman rule. Heavy taxes were levied and Christianity therefore developed in a situation of oppression. Within a few short decades it became a crime to be a Christian at all in the Roman Empire, and some emperors instigated persecutions. By the time the advice, “Honour the King” was given, the Christians to whom it was written had known what persecution was.

Despite all this, they are told to honour the king. Christian leaders were at great pains to show that Christianity was not a subversive sect, but a group of quiet, peace-loving citizens. This instruction supports that position. For Christians, whilst all power belongs to God, He delegates some of it to rulers so that they can preserve order for the proper functioning of human society. Therefore, it is a Christian principle that believers are to honour the king, or other head of state. This still applies. Christians who live in peaceful countries where law and order prevail need to remember that many do not. Some are in places where dictators make life very difficult for them. They need the prayers, encouragement and support of their more favoured fellow believers.

Matthew 11:28-30

“Come unto me all ye that labour” to discover the explanation of things,

“And are heavy laden” with the cares of this life,

“And I will give your rest” from the burden of human futility.

“Take my yoke upon you and learn of me” the divine philosophy of life,

“For I am meek and lowly in heart” and a pattern for you to follow,

“And ye shall find rest unto your souls” in my Kingdom soon to be established.

“For my yoke is easy and my burden is light”

Bro David Yelulani (Banket, Zimbabwe)