For almost three years now, our nation has known nothing but divisiveness and contention brought about by the patented policies of the administration. Sadly, the sword has not spared the evangelical community tearing it apart into two main factions: the opponents and the enablers (composed of not only active supporters but the apathetic as their inaction leaves the policies unabated.) The nays cite Amos 5:24 and Isaiah 61:8 while the yeas recite Romans 13:1-5:

 “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.” (NIV) 

Yes, all evangelicals concur the need to obey the law of the land but the yeas need to remember that this passage also applies to those in positions of power. They, too, need to obey authority. To quote presidential spokesman, Salvador Panelo, “We are a country of laws and every citizen must adhere to the rule of law. No one is above the law.” 

The nays are not breaking any laws provided their opposition does not infringe on the rights of others which the yeas are doing unwittingly when they wield Romans 13 at them. Dissension is not illegal; it is part and parcel of a healthy democracy. And when the nays holler Amos 5:24 and Isaiah 61:8, they are aimed at the authorities for accountability. Unfortunately, the yeas direct Romans 13 at fellow citizens who are just exercising their right while they allow might to run away with the trampling of the people’s rights to life and justice.