Libertarianism, Communism, and the State

Sample Solution

Christians who call themselves libertarians or who sympathize with Marx's effort to organize the "oppressed" classes in rebellion against their "oppressors" would likely respond to the scriptural injunction in Romans 13:1 in different ways.

Libertarian Christians would likely argue that the passage must be interpreted in light of the larger context of Romans, which emphasizes the importance of individual liberty and freedom from coercion. They would point out that Paul is writing to a specific audience in a specific historical context, and that his words should not be taken as a blanket endorsement of all forms of government authority.

For example, Paul writes in Romans 12:21, "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." This suggests that Christians should not use violence or coercion to resist unjust government authorities. Instead, they should focus on doing good and living peaceably.

Libertarian Christians would also argue that the passage in Romans 13 should not be interpreted as a prohibition on all forms of civil disobedience. In some cases, it may be necessary to disobey an unjust law in order to uphold a higher law, such as the law of love. For example, Christians who believe that slavery is wrong may have to disobey laws that uphold slavery.

Communist Christians would likely argue that the passage in Romans 13 is a reflection of the oppressive political realities of Paul's time. They would point out that Paul was writing to a church that was subject to the Roman Empire, and that he was trying to persuade them to obey the authorities in order to avoid persecution.

However, Communist Christians would also argue that the passage in Romans 13 does not apply to all forms of government authority. They would argue that the state is illegitimate and oppressive when it serves the interests of the wealthy and powerful, and that Christians have a moral obligation to overthrow such states.

In conclusion, there is no single answer to the question of how Christians who call themselves libertarians or who sympathize with Marx's effort to organize the "oppressed" classes in rebellion against their "oppressors" would respond to the scriptural injunction in Romans 13:1. The answer would likely vary depending on the individual's interpretation of the passage and their understanding of the role of government in society.

Here are some additional thoughts on the matter:

• Some Christians believe that the passage in Romans 13 is a clear command to obey all government authorities, regardless of whether they are just or unjust. They argue that this is the only way to ensure peace and order in society.
• Other Christians believe that the passage in Romans 13 is more nuanced. They argue that it does not mean that we should obey all government authorities, but only those that are just and fair. They also argue that we have a moral obligation to disobey unjust laws and authorities.
• Still other Christians believe that the passage in Romans 13 is not relevant to Christians today. They argue that it was written in a specific historical context and does not apply to our modern world.

Ultimately, the way that Christians interpret the passage in Romans 13 is a matter of personal conviction. There is no right or wrong answer, and each individual must decide for themselves what they believe.