Kitchen Table Theology
Where Coffee, Conversation, and Theology Meet. During my 40 years in ministry, I’ve developed an increasing burden for what I sense to be an increase in biblical illiteracy, not only among those in our churches, but also in the young men and women entering the ministry. Conversely, I am hopeful, because I also sense a hunger from people to learn and know biblical truth and the things of God has revealed to us in Scripture. Our Kitchen Table Theology team has developed a list of over 150 doctrinal topics which I, along with one of my cohosts, Jen Denton or Tiffany Coker, examine weekly. Our goal is to educate and share biblical truth on the same level as if we were sitting at your kitchen table with a Bible and a pot of southern pecan coffee in front of us. Welcome to the table!
Kitchen Table Theology
283 Should Christians Always Obey their Government? When Government Conflicts with God’s Word
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When does obeying the government become disobeying God?
In this episode of Kitchen Table Theology, Pastor Jeff Cranston and Tiffany continue their series on Christians and civil government by addressing the tension between submission to authority and ultimate allegiance to God. Using Romans 13:1-7 and Acts 5, they explain why Christians are generally called to obey civil laws, respect governing authorities, pay taxes, and live as faithful citizens.
But Scripture also gives a clear limit. When human law directly contradicts God’s command, believers must obey God rather than men. This conversation helps Christians think biblically about civil obedience, faithful resistance, conscience, suffering, and trust in God’s sovereignty.
What We Discussed
02:00 Romans 13 and Civil Authority
Civil authority is part of God’s design for order in a fallen world.
04:00 Should Christians Obey the Law?
Christians are generally called to obey the laws of the land as an act of obedience to God. Government exists to establish order, punish evil, and promote justice so society does not fall into chaos.
06:00 Obedience Is Not Based on Agreement
Christian obedience to authority is not based on liking or agreeing with the government, but on trusting God’s sovereignty.
09:30 When Christians Should Not Obey
When human law directly contradicts God’s command, Christians must obey God rather than men.
11:30 The Cost of Obeying God
Faithful obedience to God may come with real consequences, and the Christian witness is shaped by how those consequences are endured.
15:00 Faithful Citizenship in Every Nation
Believers are called to be salt and light wherever God has placed them, regardless of the freedoms or political system they live under.
16:30 Everyday Faithfulness Under Authority
Faithful citizenship looks like paying taxes, following laws, speaking respectfully, praying for leaders, and standing firm when obedience to God requires it.
“Our obedience isn’t based on whether we like the government. Our obedience is not based on whether we agree with the government. Our obedience is based on our trust in God’s sovereignty. “ – Pastor Jeff Cranston
👉 Visit Pastor Jeff Cranston on Amazon or his website to explore his books and booklets written to support believers in their walk with Christ.
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Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!