Rule
In November 2000, United States' citizens anxiously awaited the outcome
of the closest presidential race in history. Hopes rose and fell as the
media flip-flopped between announcing Vice President Al Gore as the winner
and announcing Governor George Bush as the winner. For days after the
election, votes were carefully recounted to determine who would be the
next president of the United States. Although the world's leaders and
rulers are in flux, one is constant: the living God, the creator of the
universe.
Jesus
Christ, as God's Son, has the ultimate right (see Right) to rule. As Christians,
we allow Jesus, not the power of sin, to govern our lives. Heaven is fully
aware of his rule, even if the peoples of the earth are not.
Originally,
Israel was a theocracy ruled by God alone. But the people rejected God
as their ruler, preferring to have a king like the nations around them.
Judges 8:23
1 Samuel 12:12
God has a higher authority then all other rulers have.
Psalms 103:19
Proverbs 8:15
1 Timothy 6:15
Jesus has the right to rule, and one day he will reign over all
nations forever.
Isaiah 11:10
Revelation 11:15
God tells Adam to rule over the earth and care for it. When God
gives human authorities the responsibility of ruling other people or nations,
he expects them to rule with justice (see Justice).
Genesis 1:26-28
Leviticus 25:43
Proverbs 17:7; 29:4
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