This Excellent Church – Belgic Confession, Article 36: The Magistrates

Key Texts: Romans 13:1–7; 1 Peter 2:13–17

Description:

What is the role of the state, and how should Christians respond to civil authority? In this sermon on Article 36, Pastor Samuel Oyeyinka explores the biblical doctrine of civil government. Far from being a human invention, government is established by God to maintain order, promote justice, and restrain evil.

Key themes include:

• God’s sovereignty in appointing rulers and governments (Romans 13:1)
• The proper relationship between church and state—distinct but complementary roles
• The believer’s duty to honor, pray for, and obey civil authorities, unless commanded to sin
• Warnings against both anarchism and idolatry of political power
• How Christians can live as good citizens while maintaining ultimate loyalty to Christ the King

This sermon equips believers to navigate politics and society with a gospel-centered perspective, seeing government as part of God’s providential care while remembering that our true citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20).