Did St Paul ever stand up for his rights as a citizen? I think there is scriptural grounds to say that he did. But I also believe he wasn't doing so in an egoistic manner. He was using his citizenship to advance the Gospel. He appealed on one occasion to Caesar (the secular authority of those days). Of course one had to have a very good reason for making such an appeal. This is documented for us in the Book of Acts (Chapter 25). But can we apply the example of Paul's appeal more widely, or is it only relevant in circumstances surrounding Paul's ministry? I believe at that time God in His Providence was directing events in St Paul's life, and that he wanted Paul to explain himself and his conversion to further the advance of the Gospel.
How should we think about these things today? On what grounds scripturally and in what situations are christians permitted to stand up for themselves? Under what circumstances is one allowed to file a complaint for instance?
How should we act if we are ever wrongfully accused? How far should we go to have the matter set straight?
How do we avoid taking matters into our own hands and is one permitted to seek redress through compensation agencies - eg. if wrongfully dismissed?
My guess is the Holy Spirit must rule in each situation, and guide.
But are there any general scriptural principles for guidance in this area?
How should we think about these things today? On what grounds scripturally and in what situations are christians permitted to stand up for themselves? Under what circumstances is one allowed to file a complaint for instance?
How should we act if we are ever wrongfully accused? How far should we go to have the matter set straight?
How do we avoid taking matters into our own hands and is one permitted to seek redress through compensation agencies - eg. if wrongfully dismissed?
My guess is the Holy Spirit must rule in each situation, and guide.
But are there any general scriptural principles for guidance in this area?
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