Jesus Vs. Government

Introduction:

Today, we will reflect on a theme that runs throughout Scripture: the sovereignty of God. The Bible continually reminds us that God alone is the supreme ruler of all creation, the giver of life, the judge of all humanity, and the One whose kingdom never ends.

In a world where we often see human leaders grasp for power and people living as if they are masters of their own destiny, the Scriptures provide a counterpoint, reminding us that the Lord reigns over everything. These passages call us to reflect on God’s rightful place as the sovereign King and challenge us to trust in His rule even when we do not fully understand His ways.

Sermon: The Sovereignty of God

Scripture Readings:

James 4:12: "There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?"
Psalm 103:19: "The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all."
Psalm 22:28: "For dominion belongs to the Lord, and he rules over the nations."
Daniel 4:25: "You will be driven away from people and will live with the wild animals; you will eat grass like the ox and be drenched with the dew of heaven. Seven times will pass by for you until you acknowledge that the Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and gives them to anyone he wishes."

Introduction:

1. God Alone is the Lawgiver and Judge (James 4:12)

In James 4:12, we are reminded that God alone is the Lawgiver and Judge. James addresses human tendencies to judge others and warns against usurping a role that belongs to God alone. We often fall into the trap of assuming authority over the lives of others, judging them for their actions, decisions, or beliefs. Yet, James calls us to humility by reminding us that there is only one Lawgiver, and it is God.

God's law is perfect, and His judgments are just. Unlike us, who are limited in our understanding and often biased in our judgments, God sees the heart and knows all things. He alone has the wisdom and authority to save or to destroy. This should inspire both reverence and humility in our hearts, knowing that we are not in control of ultimate outcomes, but God is.

When we recognize God's sovereignty as the ultimate Judge, we are freed from the burden of needing to control or condemn others. Instead, we can trust that God’s perfect justice will prevail.

2. God's Throne is Established in Heaven (Psalm 103:19)

Psalm 103:19 paints a beautiful picture of God seated on His throne, reigning over all creation: “The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.” The throne symbolizes authority, kingship, and dominion, and the psalmist makes it clear that this authority is absolute and unshakable.

The throne being established in heaven highlights that God’s reign is not limited to earthly circumstances. He is above all, ruling over the visible and invisible realms. His kingdom extends beyond the reach of any earthly power. Nations rise and fall, leaders come and go, but God's rule is eternal.

This truth should comfort us. No matter how chaotic the world may seem or how out of control life may feel, God’s throne is firmly established. He reigns with complete control and perfect wisdom. We can rest in the fact that God is not distant or disconnected from the world, but He is actively reigning, and nothing is beyond His authority.

3. The Lord's Dominion Over the Nations (Psalm 22:28)

Psalm 22:28 reminds us that dominion belongs to the Lord and that He rules over the nations. The word "dominion" here emphasizes God's absolute authority. Every nation, every ruler, every system of power is ultimately under God’s control.

This reality is important in a world filled with political strife, conflict, and division. The leaders of nations often act as if their power is ultimate, but Scripture reminds us that all human authority is delegated by God. Whatever dominion or influence people have is given by God, and He holds the final authority.

As followers of Christ, we are citizens of God's kingdom first. We can engage in the world knowing that our ultimate allegiance is to the One whose kingdom has no end. This frees us from despair when we see corruption or wickedness in earthly systems. We can trust that God is working His plan in and through even imperfect human governments, and His kingdom will come in fullness.

4. The Humbling of Human Pride (Daniel 4:25)

The story in Daniel 4:25 shows us how God humbles those who exalt themselves and forget His sovereignty. King Nebuchadnezzar, in his pride, had forgotten that his power was given by God. He became arrogant, thinking his empire was the result of his own strength. But God brought him low to remind him that “the Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and gives them to anyone he wishes.”

Nebuchadnezzar’s experience is a powerful lesson for all of us. God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. When we live as if we are self-sufficient, forgetting that all we have comes from God, we risk being brought low like Nebuchadnezzar. God, in His mercy, humbles us not to destroy us but to remind us of our dependence on Him.

This is a call to humility before the sovereignty of God. Everything we have, every success, every position of influence, is a gift from God. Recognizing this not only brings us peace but also aligns our hearts with God's will. When we acknowledge His rule, we open ourselves to live under His blessing and guidance.

Conclusion: Trusting in God's Sovereignty

As we reflect on these Scriptures, we are reminded that God's rule is absolute. He alone is the Lawgiver and Judge. His throne is established in heaven, and His kingdom reigns over all. He has dominion over the nations, and He humbles those who walk in pride.

The sovereignty of God calls us to trust and surrender. Instead of striving to control outcomes or judge others, we can rest in God’s perfect rule. Instead of fearing the chaos in the world, we can have confidence that God's throne is unshakable. Instead of living in pride and self-sufficiency, we are called to humble ourselves before the One who gives us life and everything we have.

May we live in awe of the God who reigns over all, trusting Him with our lives, our futures, and our world. Amen.