The Ancient Witnesses

Chapter 7: The Last Times • 255

subject to the authorities, by which I mean those people who are recognized administrators of human affairs.” “Like when we pay taxes?” asked Cesar. “If anyone thinks that because he is a Christian he does not have to pay taxes or tribute,” replied Augustine, “nor show the proper respect to the authorities who take care of these things, he is in very great error. The balance which the Lord himself prescribed is to be maintained: render unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s but unto God the things which are God’s.” 55 “But what if the authorities are corrupt?” asked Cesar. “We are called into a kingdom where the present world has no authority, that’s true enough,” said Augustine. “Yet, while we are on the way there and until we have reached that state where every principality and power will be destroyed, we must put up with our condition for the sake of human affairs, doing nothing falsely and in this very thing obeying God, who commands us to do it, rather than men.” 56 “You’re saying that when we obey corrupt authorities we’re really obeying God,” concluded Cesar, “but didn’t Peter say We must obey God rather than men ?” 57 “Sorry to interrupt,” said Joseph, “but you’re taking that verse out of context—the Apostles were being commanded not to preach in the name of Jesus.” “Alright,” said Cesar, “but aren’t we Christians called to fight injustice?”

55 Matt. 22:21.

56 Same as previous note.

57 Acts 5:29.