This research paper, written by Jackson Lee at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte, examines Paul’s view of government and the believer’s duty within it. Lee explores passages such as Romans 13, 1 Timothy 2, Titus 3, and Philippians 3 to show that Paul calls Christians to respect civil authority as ordained by God while maintaining ultimate allegiance to Christ. The paper argues that Paul’s theology reflects dual submission: believers honor governing powers as instruments of order but must never elevate them above divine authority. Through this balanced view, Lee demonstrates that faithful citizenship and faithful discipleship can coexist without conflict when understood through Paul’s “already and not yet” vision of the Kingdom of God.
Course and semester: NT3100 Pauline Epistles — Spring 2025