Christians have been charged to fulfil their civic responsibilities to the country as their contribution to nation-building and obedience to God.
Reverend Francis Akey, the Minister-in-charge of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG) Redemption Congregation at Tema Community Nine, gave the charge when preaching on the topic “The Bible and Unity for Nation Building” during the Bible Sunday service, which is a day celebrated by Christians to celebrate the Bible and its central role in Christianity.
Rev. Akey noted that the Apostle Paul admonished Christians to actively commit to godly authority, recognising that all power originated from God and that resisting authority was resisting God’s ordained order.
“Therefore, we must live as responsible citizens, obeying laws and paying our taxes, not only to avoid punishments but also out of sincere conscience,” he stated.
According to him, every governing authority, regardless of its form, is established by God and deserves the people, including Christians, out of conviction that obeying the Lord comes with submission.
Rev. Akey stressed that “we all have a responsibility to pay our taxes and fulfil other civic responsibilities as responsible citizens. Respect for leaders must be upheld; treat those in opposition with respect even when disagreeing with their policies. Be law-abiding and live according to the laws of the land, even when inconvenient.”
He added that Christians must engage in peaceful engagements as peacemakers, noting that “if you disagree with government actions, seek change through lawful and constructive means; we must also pray for wisdom and discernment for those in power or authority.”
He, however, added that while submitting to authority was important, Christians were not obligated to obey laws that were directly contradictory to God’s command.
Rev. Akey further charged Christians to show compassion and help everyone in need, regardless of their background or belief, just as the biblical Good Samaritan did, stressing that Ghanaians must not allow tribal and class differences to prevent them from helping one another.
“The story criticised those who passed by the injured person, emphasising the importance of active assistance to those in need. We must be each other’s keeper, uniting to build the nation instead of going about gossiping and insulting leadership without contributing our part,” he said.
GNA
