I am among those who know that masks are ineffective against the Corona virus. Unless you have a N95 or greater, mask... nothing will prevent or slow down the transmission of the virus. Even Fauci, WHO and CDC have waffled on the subject and their initial reactions were that masks were ineffective. Politics is winning the day.
Paul, the Apostle, lived in an era where his government was capricious and his government had very strict demands (comparison to the US). What was his approach?
This goes against the grain of my "American freedom." I have had to check myself on this topic. While we can debate whether the government has the right to require masks, that is not the level of our concern as Christians. Certainly, vote, take legal action that keeps government at bay. But, since we find ourselves under their rule... there is no equivocation by Paul that we are to "be submissive."
I believe this "mask" issue is just the beginning and our Christian attitudes will be challenged!
Of course, when the government comes into conflict with the Gospel... we are obligated to obey God rather than man.
Paul, the Apostle, lived in an era where his government was capricious and his government had very strict demands (comparison to the US). What was his approach?
Every soul is to be submissive to the governing authorities.1 For there is no authority except by God, and the existing authorities have been appointed by God. 2 So that the one who resists the authority is resisting the ordinance of God. And those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For the rulers are not a cause of fear to the good work but to the bad. Now do you want to avoid fear of the authority? Do good, and you will receive praise from him. 4 For he is God’s servant for you, for the good. But if you do what is bad, fear. For he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is God’s servant, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices what is bad. 5 Therefore it is necessary to be submissive, not only because of wrath but also because of conscience. 6 For also, because of this, you are paying taxes....
This goes against the grain of my "American freedom." I have had to check myself on this topic. While we can debate whether the government has the right to require masks, that is not the level of our concern as Christians. Certainly, vote, take legal action that keeps government at bay. But, since we find ourselves under their rule... there is no equivocation by Paul that we are to "be submissive."
I believe this "mask" issue is just the beginning and our Christian attitudes will be challenged!
Of course, when the government comes into conflict with the Gospel... we are obligated to obey God rather than man.