PAUL’S TEACHING ON CIVIL LIBERTIES IN ROMANS 13:1-7 AND ITS IMPLICATIONS TO THE CHURCH IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Romans 13:1-7 is a foundational biblical passage in which the Apostle Paul instructs Christians to submit to governing authorities, asserting that all authority is established by God. The study relies on the Aristotelian natural or divine theory of the state to analyse civil liberties. It views religion as a concept coined by man to explain man’s relationship with the object of worship, as well as a strong belief that man has in a sacred entity. Paul emphasizes that rulers are God's servants for the good of society and that resistance to authority is equivalent to resisting God's ordinance. This passage has profound theological, ethical, and socio-political implications, especially in contexts where governance is marred by corruption, injustice, and abuse of power. In the Nigerian context, where political instability, systemic corruption, and human rights violations are prevalent, Paul's teaching presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the church. On one hand, it calls for a posture of respect, civic responsibility, and prayer for those in power. On the other hand, it raises critical questions about the limits of obedience in the face of unjust governance. The church in Nigeria is therefore tasked with discerning how to uphold biblical submission to authority while also fulfilling its prophetic role of speaking truth to power, advocating for justice, and promoting godly leadership. This study explores the balance between submission and resistance, analysing Paul’s intent within his historical context and extrapolating its relevance to modern-day Nigeria. It concludes that the church must engage in constructive civic participation, ethical advocacy, and spiritual accountability, encouraging believers to be both law-abiding citizens and courageous voices for righteousness in the public sphere.