PUT ON THE ARMOR OF LIGHT
Romans 13:1-14
Key Verse: 13:12
1. What basic attitude should we have toward governing authorities and why (1; 1Pe 2:13)? Why is rebellion against the authorities a serious matter (2)? Why is this teaching challenging, both then and now?
2. What purpose do rulers serve (3-4)? In what sense are they God’s servants? How can we be free from fear of those in authority (1Pe 2:14)? Why is it important to submit as a matter of conscience (5; Ac 24:16)? What limits this submission (Ac 5:29)?
3. What practical duties follow submission to the authorities, and what benefits do we receive from them (6)? What are the implications of “give” what you “owe,” “respect” and “honor” (7)? How do these imperatives promote a healthy mindset?
4. What is the only continuing debt believers should have and why (8)? In what respect is love the fulfillment of the law (9-10)? What is the significance of loving others in a hostile environment?
5. Read verses 11-12. What should further motive us to practice our faith? What does it mean to wake up and why should we? What does it mean to “put aside the deeds of darkness” and to “put on the armor of light” (13-14; Eph 6:12)? How can we do this?