“Not My Emperor”?

Today we hear in some circles of society people saying that our new President is, “Not My President.” I pretty sure that sentiment was voiced by some political opponents of our previous President as well.   

When I hear such things, I think of the utter absurdity of New Testament Christians responding to the moral indignities, humanitarian atrocities or vile actions of the Emperors in Rome and responding, “Not My Emperor.” Of course he was, and such talk would have put one in serious jeopardy of life when the charges of rebellion and sedition were passed on to the governing authorities. 

The fact that we have the freedom to say such things should actually make as all the more respectful of authorities, as the apostle admonished: “Act as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but use it as bondslaves of God. Honor all men; love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.” (1 Pet. 2:16)

And always remember the general admonitions concerning our rulers:

1 Pet. 2:13,14“Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as sent by him…” 

Rom. 13:1,5“Let every person be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God… Wherefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience’ sake.”

And we have the luxury of actively participating in choosing another ruler in 4 years, unlike our brethren of old.