Paul was in a terrible Roman prison, probably the worse one he had been in. Nero had burned Rome and blamed the Christians which gave anyone in the empire the state-sanctioned right to persecute Christians. Many were imprisoned without cause and sent to be executed. Yet here Paul is telling Titus, a preacher to remind the congregation to be subject to rulers and authorities (1).
Jesus’ way is different than the world’s way. Jesus’ way is obedience to authority and to be ready to do whatever is good (1). Jesus said that when someone slaps me on one cheek I am to turn the other to them. Jesus taught me that if someone takes my coat I am to not withhold my shirt from them. (Luke 6:29)
How can anyone obey this? Trusting obedience takes faith in God. Faith that he will keep me and that a better eternal future awaits in paradise to those who live by faith according to his way. Faith that he will keep his promise, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matt. 6:33)
When thrown in a Roman prison I am to remain peaceable and considerate (2). Yes, Rome is gone. Yet authority over me always exists. And this world’s authority is corrupt. Many follow the ways of “The Prince” written by Niccolò Machiavelli.
