Levels of Authority - Part 2 - Civil Government

Levels Of Authority

Civil Government - August 24, 2025

[Part 2]

key points

Message Summary

Every aspect of life has its own authority structures, including our homes, churches, schools, and society. When we fail to understand these levels of authority, we often end up frustrated, confused,andevenrebellious.Inparttwoof"LevelsofAuthority,"DuaneSheriffteachesGod's divine order of authority and emphasizes why this understanding is crucial for every individual,especiallyforouryoungpeople.God'sgovernmentstandsasthehighestauthority, with all other forms such as self-government, family, church, and civil authority flow from Him. When a lower authority attempts to overrule a higher one, corruption occurs, leading to widespreadconfusion.Understandingauthoritynotonlyoffersprotectionbutalsoempowers us to live in a culture that has become filled with confusion.

Key Points

• God’s authority is the highest, followed by self-government, family government, church government, and civil government

• Understanding these levels of authority is essential for a well-ordered life and society

• The home is where children should first learn about authority, obedience, and honor.

• Christians have a responsibility to engage with civil government while maintaining biblical principles.

• There’s often confusion and pushback regarding authority, especially concerning civil government and political issues.alt and light.

Scripture References

• Ephesians 6:1-3

• 2 Timothy 3:1-4

• 1 Peter 2:13-14

• Acts 4, 5

• Romans 13:1-7

• Romans 13

Levels Of Authority

Civil Government - August 24, 2025

[Part 2]

Discussion Questions

• In what ways might our perception of authority be skewed by cultural influences, and how can we align it more closely with biblical principles?

• How does understanding the different levels of of authority (God, self, family, church, civil) impact our daily lives and decision-making processes?

• How can we balance respecting civil authority while still prioritizing God's authority when the two seem to conflict?

• What are the challenges and benefits of teaching children to obey and honor their parents in today's cultural climate?

• How can Christians effectively engage in civil discourse and government without compromising their faith or becoming overly politicized?

• In what ways might the concept of self-government, as discussed in the sermon, challenge or affirm your current understanding of personal responsibility?

• How does the idea that 'it's not even submission till you disagree' challenge our typical views on obedience and submission?

• What are the potential consequences of the church disengaging from various aspects of society, including civil government?

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Levels of Authority - Part 2 - Civil Government

Published on Aug 25, 2025

duanesheriffministries

Every aspect of life has its own authority structures, including our homes, churches, schools, and society. When we fail to understand these levels of authority, we often end up frustrated, confused, and even rebellious. In part two of Levels of Authority, Duane Sheriff teaches God’s divine order of authority and emphasizes why this understanding is crucial for every individual, especially our young people. God’s government stands as the highest authority, and all other forms—self-government, family, church, and civil—flow from Him. When a lower authority attempts to overrule a higher one, corruption follows, leading to disorder and instability. Understanding authority not only provides protection but also empowers us to live with confidence and order in a culture filled with confusion.