Avoiding rebellion

     I was reading scriptures while in the temple and found this great explanation of how we should view "authority". Paul was a very philosophical man which can probably be attributed to his deep study of the Jewish religion, his heavenly visit which had a dynamic affect on him, then his continued deep study with a greater awareness of the giver of laws. In his letter to the Romans(13th chapter) who were generally well-educated, he had this to say:
     Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power in the church but of God; the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are no a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain; for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.....Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.
     He lists lots of details about behaviors but this part specifies how to view "Church authority". Now, considering trouble that has been disclosed within the Catholic church due to the unquestioned authority of priests and other leaders, Paul's advice may come into question. However, as in every instance of every human's need to discern, our only real recourse is to ask God. Rather than simply follow and obey as a blind sheep OR rebel and refuse to follow someone we consider an imperfect man, we each need to:
*first, recognize the authority given to an imperfect person realizing that we are also sometimes given authority as responsible for a stewardship (even as simple as parenthood) and need others to be willing to do what they may be asked to do,
* then pray to know for ourselves that what we are asked to do is right. If we truly feel it is not right, then we can approach the authority personally and explain our viewpoint, not in a contentious, accusatory way, but in a sincere desire to assist them in their stewardship.
   As Paul states: Whosoever resisteth power, resisteth the ordinance of God. We must recognize when we are challenging a person and when we are challenging God. Whether it's about a general issue such as same sex marriage or a more personal issue like accepting a calling or assignment at church, God will have an opinion and we can go straight to the source and ASK!