canadyjd
Well-Known Member
Of course Paul was writing directly to Christians in Rome and the issues they were facing. That doesn't mean there isn't a broader application to all Christians.I'm not sure what you're saying here. Are you saying Paul is not writing this to Christians in General, but just to the Church at Rome, just telling them not to rebel against Rome, because they're evil and dangerous? I'm just trying to understand your exact position.
Paul is far more concerned about believers actions than the government's actions. I think his purpose was to give a general statement of God's sovereignty in establishing governments even though they were experiencing persecution.
He had stated earlier in Romans that all things work together for good toward those that love Jesus and are called. Paul is always focused on furthering the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul never proposed that we use governments to force Christian beliefs on people.
His focus was the gospel. That was his focus and should be ours.
I don't believe Paul was saying the Roman government was a great government. There were obvious problems, far greater than the issues we face in the U.S. I don't think he would approve of attempting to use government for furthering the gospel.
Peace to you.