Amnesty International and the United Nations now recognize the inhumane treatment of protesters in Tahrir square. Protesters are met with tear gas at best, many have been shot and killed at worst. While the military leaders claim they are using non-lethal methods the blood in the streets says otherwise. For more official news reports see http://www.almasryalyoum.com/en/node/517749 or http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-15849285.
So, how does a Christian respond to the events of Tahrir Square (or any similar uprising)? Being people of the Bible we turn to I Peter chapter 2 and read in verses 13 and 14 that we, "submit to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right." This seems simple enough until you get to verse 16 which says, "Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God." How do the people of Egypt live free while submitting to the military rule? The responsibility lies with the protesters. Demonstrations need to be peaceful in nature giving no hint of wrong doing. Look at our verses again. Freedom cannot be used as a cover-up for evil. Exercising the right of free speech and demonstration should not be used as an excuse to create dissension and stir mobs.
What does this look like in action...refusing to participate in any type of violence demonstrating peacefully for the right to elect leaders even in the midst of tear gas and bullets. This is the ultimate example of turning the other cheek. I urge believers to pray for the courage and self-control required of these protesters to ensure peaceful resolution. Pray for freedom in Egypt and that sinful corruption and ego driven power grabs will not result in more violence. Finally, consider what application this has to your own life. How do you peacefully submit to authority even in the face of great personal loss?
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