Human government’s authority derives from and is defined by God. He instituted human government to reward good and to restrain sin in an evil, fallen world.
Commentary from the MacArthur study Bible, notes for Romans 13:1.
Fallen
Unknowing
-On the narrow road-
Is it possible that followers of Christ will never face persecution? Is it possible that things will just remain quiet and calm, for all? It actually is not quiet and calm for followers of Christ, and we have been told that it would not be so. In the United States, our level of peacefulness is directly related to the order kept in check by government in general, together with the principles that our nation is founded upon. We only have ‘lasting’ peace because it has been in the best interest of all. While this system that we use here works, it is as susceptible to corruption and upset as any system. Pray that the peace of God remain in this land, by remaining in the hearts of men and women.
-Word- pictures by DLink 