I'd also add that the extreme anti-government sentiment is wholly unchristian. Where is this in the Bible? Where does God tell us this is what He wants from us? He doesn't. It's just people imposing their will and their views onto God so that they can keep their beliefs compatible instead of choosing one.
We've pretty much come to terms with our different interpretations already, but I came across this verse today and it directly addresses your question, so I'm sending it along:
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
That NIV version is more direct regarding "rulers" and "authorities" than the King James version, which uses "principalities" and "powers" but I think the meaning is identical.
I see the Bible coming down in favor of healthy, earned Authority that doesn't possess a mandate for INITIATING coercion, and opposing artificial "Authority" that perpetrates Evil by USE OF initiated coercion. (Coercion in defense against assault and other genuine crime is another matter, of course).
For naturally emerging leaders who have their people's best interest at heart and against tyranny; opposing Power as Tolkien described it.
We've pretty much come to terms with our different interpretations already, but I came across this verse today and it directly addresses your question, so I'm sending it along:
That NIV version is more direct regarding "rulers" and "authorities" than the King James version, which uses "principalities" and "powers" but I think the meaning is identical.
I see the Bible coming down in favor of healthy, earned Authority that doesn't possess a mandate for INITIATING coercion, and opposing artificial "Authority" that perpetrates Evil by USE OF initiated coercion. (Coercion in defense against assault and other genuine crime is another matter, of course).
For naturally emerging leaders who have their people's best interest at heart and against tyranny; opposing Power as Tolkien described it.
As always, just my opinion.