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Question From Facebook by David Witman:

There actually is a Greek word for government…why didn’t Paul use it in Romans 13?

Understanding Authority: The Scope and Significance of “Exousiai” in Romans 13

In Koine Greek, the term commonly translated as “government” in English does not have a direct, one-to-one equivalent that captures all the nuances associated with the modern concept of government. Instead, the language of the New Testament uses a variety of terms to describe different aspects of governance and authority.

In Romans 13, Paul uses the word ἐξουσίαις (exousiais), which is typically translated as “authorities” in English. This term comes from the Greek root ἐξουσία (exousia), which means authority, power, or jurisdiction. It encompasses a broader concept than just “government” and can refer to any powers that be, including but not limited to civil authorities. This term is versatile, covering various dimensions of power and control exercised by leaders or governing bodies, and implies a legitimacy of power or right to exercise authority.

Paul’s choice not to use a more specific term for “government” could be intentional for several reasons:

Scope and Application: By using ἐξουσίαις, Paul is likely emphasizing not just the ruling government but all forms of legitimate authority that Christians might encounter, whether imperial, local, or even religious. This broad application encourages respect and submission in a variety of contexts, aligning with the Christian teaching of peace and order.
Theological Emphasis: Paul’s discourse in Romans 13:1-7 focuses on the ordained nature of authority — that all authority ultimately comes from God and serves His purposes, even when the authority itself may not acknowledge God. This aligns with the belief that God uses various means to accomplish His will on earth, including secular governments.
Practical Considerations: During the time of Paul’s writing, the Roman Empire was the dominant political entity, and it encompassed a complex array of local and regional authorities under its imperial system. Using a broader term allows Paul’s message to be universally applicable to any Christian, regardless of the specific political structure under which they live.

In conclusion, while Koine Greek does have words to describe specific aspects of governance, Paul’s choice of ἐξουσίαις in Romans 13 serves to broaden the understanding of what constitutes authority and underscores the theological and ethical stance Christians are to adopt towards all forms of legitimate power. This approach not only reinforces the necessity of lawful obedience but also embeds it within a Christian worldview that recognizes divine sovereignty over all earthly powers.

Followup Question From Facebook by David Witman:

Thank you for your well thought out perspective and insight. In your opinion how would Matthew 28:18 “ALL authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me” coalesce with your understanding of “legitimate authority” in Romans 13?

The Supremacy of Christ’s Authority and Its Implications for Christian Conduct in Society

In harmonizing Matthew 28:18 with Romans 13, it’s helpful to see how the New Testament presents the concept of authority, both in a spiritual and a civil context. These passages are complementary, each addressing different dimensions of Christ’s authority and the practical outworking of Christian life under secular governance.

Matthew 28:18 states, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” This declaration by Jesus is made post-resurrection and signifies the full extent of His divine authority, which encompasses both the spiritual and the physical realms. This authority is inherent in His identity as the Son of God and the risen Christ. It underscores His position above all other powers and authorities, making Him the supreme ruler over all creation.

Romans 13:1-7, on the other hand, instructs Christians on how to relate to civil authorities. Paul explains that all authorities exist by God’s permission and are instituted by Him. This teaching helps Christians navigate their daily lives within the political and social structures of their time. Paul’s emphasis is not just on the existence of these authorities but on their role as servants of God for the good of the people, including maintaining order and justice.

Coalescing the Two Understandings:

Divine Sovereignty and Delegated Authority:
- Theological Basis: Jesus’ claim to “all authority” means that any earthly power only operates under His allowance and sovereignty. Thus, when Paul talks about the powers that be in Romans 13, he is acknowledging that these powers are delegated a measure of authority under Christ’s ultimate rule.
- Practical Implication: Christians are to obey civil authorities not because these authorities are supreme, but because doing so aligns with the divine order established by Christ. Their obedience to civil law is a manifestation of their ultimate submission to Christ.
Purpose of Authority:
- Christ’s Rule: Christ’s authority aims at the redemption of creation and the establishment of His kingdom. His rule, therefore, has both a saving and judging aspect, bringing reconciliation and justice.
- Civil Authority: Civil authorities are ordained to serve specific purposes—maintaining order and promoting welfare within society. They are to act as God’s servants to punish evil and reward good (Romans 13:4).
Christian Witness and Social Responsibility:
- Evangelistic Context: Matthew 28:18-20 also commissions believers to make disciples of all nations. Recognizing Christ’s authority compels Christians to spread the gospel and live out kingdom values.
- Civic Engagement: By respecting and submitting to civil authorities, Christians demonstrate the transformation Christ has wrought in them, serving as a witness to the world of God’s justice and mercy.
Ultimate Accountability:
- To Christ: All authority, including that of governments, will ultimately be held accountable to Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10). This eschatological perspective reminds believers that while they submit to earthly authorities, their ultimate allegiance is to Christ.

Conclusion:

In essence, Matthew 28:18 and Romans 13:1-7 together provide a comprehensive view of Christian authority and responsibility. Christ’s supreme authority over all things calls for complete allegiance and obedience from His followers, while His delegation of authority to civil rulers requires respectful submission and wise engagement, always with the knowledge that Christ is the final arbiter of all human affairs. This balanced understanding helps believers navigate their roles in both the spiritual and civic arenas effectively and faithfully.

Both responses are biblically sound in terms of Koine Greek grammar and syntax. The terms and concepts discussed align well with the usage and meanings in the original Greek texts of the New Testament.

In Matthew 28:18, the Greek phrase translated as “all authority” (πᾶσα ἐξουσία) clearly encompasses the full range of Jesus’ authority both in heaven and on earth, indicating complete and total authority. The verb “has been given” (ἐδόθη) is in the perfect tense, which in Greek emphasizes the completed action with ongoing effects. This supports the understanding that Jesus’ authority is both established and continuing.

In Romans 13:1, when discussing “authorities” (ἐξουσίαι), the text uses a term that generally refers to those who hold a position of power or governance. The phrase “there is no authority except from God” (οὐ γὰρ ἔστιν ἐξουσία εἰ μὴ ὑπὸ Θεοῦ) reflects the typical Greek structure that emphasizes the source of authority, attributing all legitimate power to God’s sovereign will. The verb “has been instituted” (τεταγμέναι εἰσίν) is in the perfect passive form, indicating that the establishment of these authorities is both done by an external agent (God) and has a lasting arrangement.

These insights from the Greek help affirm that the theological interpretations offered in the previous response align well with the biblical text, adhering to sound principles of Koine Greek grammar and syntax. This ensures that the interpretations are not only theologically consistent but also textually accurate.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is the CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored more than 220 books and is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).