financial, for example – we naturally seek help from a respected professional:
someone with training, skill, experience and credentials. We are happy to find
an authority we can turn to.
The Supreme Authority of all is the Lord, the Word incarnate, the Author
of the universe, our Creator and Savior.
After hearing His Sermon on the Mount, “the people were astonished
at his doctrine, for he taught them as one having authority, and not as the
scribes.” (Matthew 7:28-29) They could tell that here was someone who knew
what He was talking about, and were stirred by His teaching. They sensed His
authority and responded affirmatively to it.
To some, the Lord explained the source of His authority: “For as the Father
has life in Himself; so he has given to the Son to have life in Himself; and has
given him authority to execute judgment also, because He is the Son of man.”
(John 5:26-27)
But when some others demanded to know “by what authority” He acted,
the spirit behind their question was apparent to Him, and He refused to tell
them. (Matthew 21:23-27) It was a hostile question; their minds were already
made up.
It is prudent to question authority. But it would be foolish to question it
in such a way as to deprive ourselves of the help of someone whose authority
represents genuine ability – especially the One who possesses “all power in
heaven and on earth.” (Matthew 28:18)
(WEO)
‘with a firm reliance . . .’
In publishing in this issue Peter Boericke’s Independence Day address and
a review of a booklet by the Rev. Robert Jungé on the religious roots of the
United States, we are sensitive to the feelings of many of the readers of New
Church Life who are not American and love their own countries. This is as
it should be. But the religious principles expressed by both authors should
resonate with freedom-loving people everywhere.
We know that one’s country is one of the highest forms of the neighbor.
And although religious influence is on the wane in governing principles
throughout the world, faith in God’s leading is fundamental to true freedom.
“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom He hath
chosen for His own inheritance.” (Psalm 33: 12)
Whatever our nationality, we all have a role in standing up for the best of
our governments’ values and virtues. Being a responsible citizen means being
informed and involved in the government that represents us – and doing what
we can to make sure it does represent us.
523