Empire and the New Exodus: Paul's Response in Romans 13:1–7 as a Paradigm of Deliverance

During an age marked by political polarization, injustice, and protests, Christians are faced with the challenge of discerning a faithful response without compromising their convictions. Responding to this challenge, Dr. Ovidiu Hanc provides a fresh perspective of Romans 13:1–7, read through the lens of the New Exodus which situates Paul’s reflections on civil authority within his theology of divine deliverance. By rooting Paul’s perspective in the Exodus narrative and the Isaiah vision, Hanc highlights that the apostle’s message was not a political manifesto or anti-imperial critique. Rather, it was a covenantal mandate that emphasized Christ’s Lordship as theological, not oppositional to Caesar. From this theology of divine liberation, an ethic of non-retaliation and submission emerges as a guide to modern Christians facing times of political and social upheaval. This rich and timely work provides readers with hope and clarity for living out Christ’s justice and peace in a world marked by division.