HOW TO Make A Godly appeal to Authority
(to request a
change of direction)
NOTE: All authority is of
God
a. Romans
13:1-3 “Let every
soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority
except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore
whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who
resist will bring judgment on themselves. For
rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid
of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the
same. For he is God’s minister to you for good.
b. Levels
of Authority: Family, Civil and Spiritual
Galatians
6:1: “Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, [unwise or dangerous decision) you who are spiritual
restore [offer an alternative to] such a
one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be
tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so
fulfill the law of Christ.”
Options for requesting
change:
1. Prayer-Continual Intercession or ‘the move or remove prayer’ (prayer that God would change the persons mind, or remove the person from the situation
2. Written Letter/ email (this may
be best if when you have tried to talk to a person in the past, they have
continually interrupted or misunderstood your concern} It gives them time to
consider your request.
3. Personal (face to face)
A. Affirm the person in authority
has the right/ability to make the decision
B. Clarify you understand the decision (that
is being made or has been made)
C. Respectfully offer an
alternative option- one that you think still would accomplish the stated goal.
D. Share your alternative solution
E.
Lastly, ask " Would you consider this option and get aback to me
with your thoughts?” (don’t set a time limit
deadline)
Note: Normally,
you are not appealing something that is immoral, illegal, or
unethical. BUT if you are and the Authority refuses to change course; seek
godly counsel and in most cases, you will need to remove yourself from under
that Authority's care or jurisdiction.
