HOPE FOR THE HOME: When man’s laws contradict God’s laws

Husband/Father: Recently, two of our teenage sons were discussing public officials whose policies they believe threaten the American way of life by advancing socialist and communist ideas. Their question was: How far should we go in obeying new laws which conflict with or contradict God’s moral laws?

Jerry: This is a very deep and insightful question? Obeying the laws in government books is not always synonymous with obeying the laws in God’s book. The Apostle Paul addresses this question in the first ten verses of the thirteenth chapter of Romans. In verse one he sets the priority for governmental obedience, “Everyone must submit to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.” He sums up his counsel and gives this advice in verse 10, “Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore, love is the fulfillment of the law.” The word “submission” implies that submission to governing authorities does not take precedence over submission to God’s authority.      

Becky: Let me express gratitude for parents who are willing to engage their children in such fundamental issues. May I suggest you set aside regular times to talk with your sons about the deeper concerns and challenges they are likely to face. Share with them Acts 5:29 where Peter says, “We must obey God rather than men." Then share the various conditions which will require this commitment. It truly takes knowledge, understanding and wisdom to navigate the complexities of living in the world without becoming a part of this world. While obeying the laws of the land is important, obedience to God’s higher moral law must remain our first commitment.  

Jerry: Micah 6:8 is a tremendous instruction to share with your children, “He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” We are indeed living in turbulent times which requires Christians to know what they believe, why they believe it, and to stand firm in their beliefs regardless of the costs. God bless all parents who seek to instill in their children the Chirstian beliefs and practices which have shaped this great nation, the United States of America.

Jerry and his wife Becky are on American Family Radio weekdays at 4:20 PM (CT) and on Sundays at 5:35 PM (CT). You can subscribe to their podcast at Apple Podcast, Spotify, or directly at HopoefortheHome.org/podcast. Check out their resources for the family at HopefortheHome.org. Becky’s latest book, “The Bright Side of Blue” and Dr. Drace’s, “44 Ways to Strengthen Your Marriage” offer biblical principles and timely advice for dealing with the challenges and trials of life. You may order these and other resources by contacting them at: hopeforthehome@juno.com.