Have you ever wondered where your authority to take a life came from?
Is the source grounded in the state law? In the Constitution? Try again! The very institution of civil government and its authority, under specific circumstances, to deprive people of the two most basic rights, life and liberty, is ordained by God Himself. God has ordained the institution of civil government and the profession of Law Enforcement.
“Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers [civil authority]. For there is no power [authority] but of God: the powers [authorities] that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation 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 13:1-2, 4
This passage contains something you need to fully comprehend: Your authority to bear the “sword,” or the power of life and death, is ordained by God. Your authority to deprive a citizen of liberty, or to take his life in a clean shoot doesn’t come from the state. It comes from God Himself. He ordained your occupation as the 24/7 representative of civil government on the street.
In a split-second decision, you must be prepared to carry out a state-sanctioned execution without the luxury of a judge and jury. It is part of your God-given duty.
If anyone ever tells you that you would be condemned to Hell for violating the commandment “Thou shalt not kill” (Exodus 20:13) for having to take a life during the course of your job, they were either very ignorant or they were trying to deceive you for some reason. Find a Bible, look up that verse, and see what the Hebrew word for “kill” really means: commit a premeditated murder, which is not what law enforcement does. Do not let such ignorant counsel dishearten you!
God Himself has ordained your authority and your position as a minister within His institution of civil government for the purpose of establishing and maintaining order and peace to a chaotic sinful world. As a “peace officer” you are God’s minister of that institution. Wear your uniform with that fact always near the forefront of your thoughts. Seek to please the One from Whom your authority flows!
If you have never acknowledged Jesus Christ as the Ultimate Authority in your life and come to Him to be saved, it is the first step you must take in obeying and pleasing that Authority. (See Are Your Sure? Give me a call. I would love to talk to you about this and answer any questions you might have. Be safe today!
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