Honor Upside Down

Before he wore the title ‘apostle’ and went by the name ‘Paul,’ Saul of Tarsus was an enemy of Christianity. He was present at the stoning of Stephen, a disciple of Jesus, and clearly gave his approval. He had gone to the high priest of the Jews to ask for letters authorizing him to arrest disciples of Christ. Notice again, he had gone to the high priest.

After his conversion to Christ, the Apostle Paul began preaching the gospel. Because of his new allegiance to Christ, the Jews turned against him. When visiting Jerusalem on one occasion, he was falsely accused of preaching against the Law of Moses and defiling the temple of God. For that reason he was brought before the Jewish council among whom was the high priest.

In the course of his defense for preaching the gospel Paul indicated that he had lived his life with a good conscience before God. The high priest commanded those standing next to Paul to strike him on the mouth. Paul immediately responded, “God is going to strike you, you whitewashed wall! Do you sit to try me according to the Law, and in violation of the Law order me to be struck?” (Acts 23:3)

Someone near Paul said, “Do you revile God’s high priest.” Then Paul replied, “I was not aware, brethren, that he was high priest; for it is written, ‘You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.’” (This was undoubtedly a different man serving as high priest than the one Paul knew earlier.)

Of all people, the high priest of the Jews should have recognized the Messiah. The high priest should have realized that Jesus fit the description, that He was the Messiah. If not during the earthly ministry of Jesus, the high priest should have been one of the early converts to Christianity. Yet, rejecting Jesus the Messiah, the high priest ordered Paul to be struck for saying that he had followed Jesus in good conscience. It was completely upside down, circumstances that should never have developed. Even so, Paul recognized the position of the high priest when it was pointed out and he acknowledged that he had spoken wrongly against the high priest. Paul displayed honor in an upside down situation.

Jesus was on trial before King Herod and before Pilate, a Roman governor. How upside down was that?! God declared that Jesus of Nazareth was His only begotten Son. Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecy as the Messiah of God. That means that He was the prophesied ’king.’ Upon His ascension Jesus entered into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God, language describing His enthronement. King Herod should have bowed to honor Jesus. Pilate should have been on trial before Jesus. Caesar should have made his way to Judea to find Jesus and show honor to Him. Upside down!

In his earthly ministry Jesus acknowledged the authority of Caesar by paying His taxes and He taught others to do so as well. When on trial He did nothing and said nothing disrespectful toward the Jewish authorities, King Herod or Pilate. The One who would soon be enthroned as King of kings showed honor to human authorities in an upside down world.

We recognize that we are still living in an upside down world. Elected officials make ungodly decisions at the city, county, state, and federal levels of government. It should not be that way. They should know better. The inequities anger us. Peter instructed Christians to submit to governing authorities. The honor we show human authorities is rooted in our respect for God and His authority. 

“Honor the king” (even in an upside down world).

The Apostle Paul did. 

Jesus the Messiah did.

What about you??

Mark Stinnett

March 1, 2026

Honor in Challenging Circumstances

God desires for His people to be holy. Specific applications regarding holy behavior are found in 1 Peter. According to Peter’s instruction, God’s people are to submit to governing authorities including the king and governors. Peter wrote, “Honor the king” (2:17). That was a reference to the top ruling official in the land and applies to a president or prime minister or chairman (alternative titles of top leaders).

Many Americans give little or no thought to using harsh criticism, slanderous speech, and even hate speech against elected officials. They do so hiding behind ‘free speech.’ Unfortunately, some who claim to be Christians jump on the harsh speech bandwagon and in doing so intentionally dishonor the president. God does not guarantee free speech. He expects better.

The first recipients of Peter’s letter lived under the rule of the maniac emperor Caesar Nero. So, “honor the king” meant, “Honor Nero!”

What does it look like to honor a governing official who does not honor God? The Old Testament prophet Daniel provides a beautiful example.

King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, king of the first world empire, marched into Jerusalem and took many valuables, but also “some of the sons of Israel, including some of the royal family and of the nobles….” (1:3) Among those taken was Daniel. He, along with three other young men, was placed under the supervision of “the commander of the officials.” In general terms, this man governed over him.

Daniel and his friends were placed in a training program after which they would enter into the king’s personal service. They were appointed “a daily ration from the king’s choice food.” (1:5) However, Daniel believed the king’s food would make him unclean according to the Law of Moses. So, he determined not to defile himself. But, as a captive what could he do?

Daniel did not cross his arms in defiance and refuse to eat. He did not make a scene by vigorously protesting. He did not lash out or conspire with his friends by harshly criticizing their supervisor or the king. Rather, he asked permission to eat a different diet that he knew would not defile him.

Some time later, after having been placed in the king’s service, Daniel had the opportunity to interpret a dream that troubled King Nebuchadnezzar. God gave Daniel the interpretation of the dream, but it was not good news for the king. Nevertheless, Daniel delivered God’s message accurately and entirely. Surprising to some is the way Daniel prefaced the message: “My lord, if only the dream applied to those who hate you and its interpretation to your adversaries!” (4:8) Daniel had sincere respect for his pagan captor. Then, immediately after telling the king that God would bring him low and remove him from his throne, Daniel advised the king to turn from his sins by being righteous and by showing mercy to the poor.

Daniel’s examples teach us some things about submitting to authority:

• Daniel humbled himself and asked permission instead of protesting.
• Daniel told the truth, even though it was bad news.
• Daniel showed respect to his supervisor and to the king.
• Daniel displayed a genuine concern for the king and truly desired his welfare. He knew the king was a servant of God. (Cf. Romans 13:1-7.)

By honoring those in authority over him, Daniel drew attention to the God of heaven in a positive way. At all times he maintained his purity before God. By honoring the king he ultimately demonstrated honor toward God.

Honor those in authority. Your example and influence might save a soul.

Mark Stinnett

February 15, 2026

In 'My' Opinion

Does the Bible fit with your opinions?

Some people have a mixed up approach to the Bible. They start with their own set of beliefs. Then after reading a passage of Scripture they evaluate the text based on their opinions.

For example, think of an occasion when you were hurt by something a friend said about you. Even worse your friend didn’t seem to care; he/she never offered a simple apology.

What do you do when you read a verse of Scripture encouraging forgiveness? Do you accept the teaching and forgive or do you explain…

• “You really don’t understand how badly I was treated.” (In other words, the offense was so bad that it is really unforgivable.)
• “They don’t know how badly they hurt me.” (In other words, before forgiving the person, he should be required to feel similar pain so he will understand.)
• “They don’t even care that they hurt me.” (In other words, because he showed apathy, you are not obligated to forgive.)
• “They didn’t even repent.” (In other words, there was no show of remorse and promise of change. So, forgiveness is not required.)

If a person approaches Scripture with a predefined view of the requirements of forgiveness, he will either ignore biblical teaching or justify his point of view. The glaring flaw in that kind of thinking is in starting with human definitions and applying human reasoning. That is nothing less than evaluating God’s word by personal opinion or human standards.

As another example think about your anger.

• Do you believe that it is emotionally healthy to vent your anger? If so, how did you arrive at that conclusion?
• Do you believe that your anger is generally justified? In other words, your anger is reasonable and proper, a good thing. Or, said another way, you should be angry because of the circumstances. If so, how do you know that your anger is justified?

How are these questions to be answered?

These are only two examples in which human reason butts heads with biblical teaching. The difficulty comes when human reasoning is favored because it appears to be reasonable, and/or appears to be backed by human research.

Perhaps we should be asking...
   Do you want to be like God?
   Do you want to have fellowship with God?

When God revealed His divine character, He declared that He forgives iniquity, sin and transgression. In the same statement God declared that He was slow to anger. (See Exodus 34:6-7.) For us to be like God we must also be forgiving and we must control our anger.

Regardless of the issue, rationalization and self-justification come from immaturity and selfishness. If you recognize that you sometimes turn to human thinking to evaluate God’s word, what can you do?

First, recognize that you are not a piece of equipment that can be repaired with the right parts and the right tools. Rather, the problem is in the heart; a faith problem. You will need outside assistance. There is no switch to flip and no magical verse that will make everything better.

You must be serious about change. So, start on your knees in earnest prayer asking God for a change of heart. Rise up trusting that He will act. Then, commit yourself to listen eagerly to His word.

Mark Stinnett

January 29, 2023

God IS in Control

“It shows that God is in control.” 

That was a comment made in a Bible class on the Book of Daniel. The comment was in reference to the prophesied fall of a great kingdom.

In my last blog I showed from scripture that God…

• Is not a controller of human puppets;
• Does not orchestrate all matters;
• Does not assign destiny to every person.

The point was that God allows people to make choices, even when those choices go against Him and His divine will. Yet, when we look at the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, there is no question but that God orchestrated some things. It is clear that God has used His authority and power to accomplish His will. So, it makes sense to say, “God is in control.”

Of course, some people don’t like the idea of God being in control. Yet, as in a family with small children, it is always better when the parents are in charge. Here are a few ways that we benefit from God being in control.

Job and the Accuser: In the opening chapter of the Book of Job Satan accuses that Job is of good character and that he reveres God because God blessed him so much. Satan suggested that if his wealth, family and health were removed, Job would curse God. Because of his confidence in Job, God allowed Satan to bring calamity and pain into the life of Job. Yet, Satan could not proceed without God’s permission. Satan cannot make a move against you without God’s permission. Satan submits to God.

Temptation: Consider the following verse.

No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.

—1 Corinthians 10:13 (NASB95)

God knows your weakness and he will not allow a temptation in your life that you cannot overcome. God protects you.

Judgment: Consider the following:

Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.

—Romans 12:19 (NASB95)

Ultimately, God will bring justice to all people. He has the authority to do so. What a relief that we (humans) do not have to figure it all out!

Good for God’s People: 

(From Romans 8)

We know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. (v. 28)

If God is for us, who is against us? (v. 31)

Paul concluded by explaining emphatically that nothing in this world or the unseen world can separate us from the love of God. (vv. 38-39)

The End and the Beginning: The Apostle John recorded a lengthy vision from God. He saw a place of destruction at the end of time a place called the lake of fire. In it were cast death, Hades, the devil, and all evil. Yet, just as soon as John saw these things, he saw a new heaven and new earth and a new Jerusalem prepared for God’s holy people; a new beginning for God’s holy people. (Revelation 20-22)

God does these things because He has all authority and all power! God IS in control, and that’s good. As a result, we have hope!

Mark Stinnett

December 6, 2020

Overheard, Overwhelmed and Obstinate: Responding to a Pandemic

I have found it somewhat amusing when I run errands these days. Because of the Corona-virus pandemic we (in Illinois) are required to wear a mask over our mouth when going into grocery stores and other public places. I’ve been using a bright green bandanna for my mask. I have it tied around my neck so that I can easily pull it up over my mouth and nose before entering a store. I imagine myself looking like a bank robber from the old west. I just need a cowboy hat, horse and spurs to be complete. (grin)

I have not been adversely affected as many have, and I’ve not felt threatened. I have concern regarding the virus, but no fear for my family or me.

Information I’ve gathered from the Internet and news outlets ranges from gripping reports of how bad things are to side-splitting humor. Official sources have sometimes been contradictory, and I’m not sure that I know how to interpret the facts. And, of course, there is an abundance of misinformation; some of it for shock value, some for humor, some just silly.

I’ve laughed at many quips, sayings and videos that have been posted. Yet, some postings have caused concern. (And for the record, the folks at the local church where I preach are NOT the source of my concern.)

• “We s’posed to wear a mask in here too? They ain’t gonna make me wear a mask to the convenience store next week.”
• “They are NOT going to tell me which way to push my cart through the grocery store.”
• “Well, if I want to meet with friends and family, they can’t stop me.” (presumably a larger gathering)
• “It’s a conspiracy!” (President/Republicans/Democrats/China.)
• “It’s just a flu bug.”
• “Wow, did you hear how bad things are in ‘Large City’?” Then minutes later… “I don’t think there's anything to worry about.”
• “Let’s get things back to normal. People die all the time; don’t they know that!?”

I’ve been wearing my bandanna ‘mask’ and following all other restrictions and guidelines and posted instructions at stores. (And I smile really big at store workers because I know that a genuine smile can be seen in a person’s eyes; and they need a smile.) I’m not boasting; I just want to tell you my motivation for compliance:

Every person must be subject to the governing authorities, for no authority exists except by God’s permission. The existing authorities have been established by God, so that whoever resists the authorities opposes what God has established, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. 

--Romans 13:1–2 (ISV)

For the Lord’s sake submit yourselves to every human authority: whether to the king as supreme, or to governors who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to praise those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing right you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people.

--1 Peter 2:13–15 (ISV) 

Observations:

1. Peter gave rationale for submitting to governing authorities: “For the Lord’s sake.” Then he wrote: “For it is God’s will that by doing right you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people.” Prior to the passage above, he wrote, “Continue to live such upright lives among the gentiles that, when they slander you as practicers of evil, they may see your good actions and glorify God when he visits them.” So, one reason that God wants us to submit to governing authorities is because authority originates with Him. It is contradictory for His people to push against authority and boast an unsubmissive attitude. You actually make God look bad. Even outsiders (gentiles) can see that.

2. I don’t know what the ‘unmasked’ fellows at the convenience store thought about my 'mask,' whether they admired it or thought it was dumb. What I do know is that they had no basis for accusing me of anything. They could mock me, but not accuse me. The idea of accusing people always make me think of Job. You might remember how Satan came before God and accused Job. Yet, God defended Job. Do you think God would defend your attitude if Satan brought an accusation against you?

3. There are eyes watching that are very important to us: Our children and grandchildren. When Paul addressed fathers concerning their children, he wrote, “Bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” What kind of lesson are you presenting when your children hear you grumble about governing authorities? Will they learn to honor God and His instruction (Romans 13 and 1 Peter 2)? What will they learn when you announce that you will intentionally and blatantly ignore published and/or posted guidelines and restrictions? What kind of mixed message are you sending when you say about governing bodies or store management, “They can’t tell me what to do!”?

4. When a person makes broad, sweeping statements based on personal perception, it is speculative and opinionated...and that is nothing other than the voice of pride. The Psalmist compares such arrogance and ignorance to an impulsive, unthinking beast (Psalm 73). Peter was equally strong when he wrote: "God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble." (1 Peter 5:5)

Honestly, many of us do not know what to think or believe about the Coronavirus pandemic. We just don't know all the facts. But that’s ok. As Christians our response to God transcends what we know or believe about our current circumstances. Whether in a pandemic or not; whether the governing authorities are right or justified or not, our response is to be based on what we know and believe about God and His word; not what we think about the world around us.

It is your attitude that ultimately defines your speech and your actions, so...

• Your children and grandchildren are watching you; teach well.
• Outsiders are watching you; live for the Lord’s sake.
• Satan is watching and God is watching; leave no room for accusations.

Mark Stinnett,

May 18, 2020

Are Church Elders 'Rulers'?

If I were to answer the title question in a word, “Are church elders rulers?” I would have to say, “Yes," . . . and . . . "No.”

I would say, “Yes,” because some elders have positioned themselves as rulers over God’s church. Yet, I would answer, “No,” since that is not God’s expectation.

I am reflecting on statements from Hebrews 13 in which the author mentions church leaders three times (verses 7, 17, and 24). In most modern translations we read the word leader, but in a couple of translations the word ruler is used. The Hebrew writer instructs Christians...

Obey your leaders (rulers) and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. 
--Hebrews 13:17

The word ruler is a valid translation choice, but it can be misleading since it carries a wide range of meaning. In addition, there are several Greek terms that are translated ruler, the most common meaning: One who holds a position of authority to govern as well as to create and execute laws (rules). This word describes Jewish rulers in Luke 23:13; governing authorities in Romans 13:3; and rulers of this age in Romans 6:12.

A different word is used in Hebrews 13. Instead of emphasizing authority, it emphasizes leadership. So, again, the word ruler is accurate, but potentially misleading to today’s English reader.

In addition, the companion words obey and submit in Hebrews 13:17 both carry the idea of yielding to or giving in to. The overall picture is one of trust and cooperation. This combination of words reminds me of the Apostle Paul’s appeal to Philemon regarding his runaway slave, Onesimus.

Paul was sending Onesimus back to Philemon, but with a request that Philemon would voluntarily release Onesimus from slavery. 

But without your consent I did not want to do anything, so that your goodness would not be, in effect by compulsion but of your own free will. 
--Philemon 1:14

The Hebrew writer instructed his readers to “yield to” their leaders who “keep watch over your souls.” It is fitting that he continued:

Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you. 
--Hebrews 13:17

So, are church elders rulers?

Certainly NOT like kings or government officials. They do not even have the same level of authority as parents in the home. Rather, they rule as leaders, like shepherds. They might stand in front and ask the flock to follow where they go or ask the flock to follow their example. They might stand among the flock to encourage, settle disagreements, and calm fears; or they might stand behind the flock to motivate them to move forward.

Christians are to obey and submit, that is, to yield to their elders, not because elders hold a position of authority over them, but because elders are watching over their souls. Instead of a picture of an elder barking orders and enforcing rules, the Bible has elders pleading lovingly and Christians yielding to their appeals.

Authoritarian ruler-ship with the expectation of blind obedience can easily foster attitudes of resistance or even rebellion. Yet, even a strong appeal from a loving leader promotes cooperation and a heart willing to yield. Church elders rule, but only as shepherding leaders.

Mark Stinnett