What exactly was Paul referring to in Romans when he says "everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities?" Have you seen what the government leaders have said and done from time to time? Sure makes it difficult to be willing to submit to them. Tertullian, a Christian author from the 3^rd century writes that the Christian cannot but look up to the emperor because the Christian believes that the emperor "is called by our Lord to his office." He goes on to say that "Caesar is more ours than yours because our God appointed him." Another point to consider – no man can disassociate from the society in which he lives, is a part of. No one can opt out of a nation.