The Bible speaks clearly about the relationship between the believer and the government. Government can be defined as, “The exercise of authority; direction and restraint exercised over the actions of men in communities, societies or states.”  

We are to obey governmental authorities: Paul wrote to the Romans, “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers.” (Romans 13:1) Peter also wrote, “Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to governor…” (1 Peter 2:13-14).

A government or authority exists to serve those governed: “For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.” (Romans 13:4)

When the government does not live up to its role, we are still to live up to ours. When Paul wrote Romans 13:1, Emperor Nero was in power and Christians were suffering persecution. The advantage the Christian has under our form of government is that you can be the emperor (representative government)!

When the government asks us to do something that is in direct disobedience to God’s word, we are to obey God. Notice the record of Luke in Acts 5:28-29, “Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us. Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.”