~ A place to find answers to gnawing spiritual questions ~
Question: Does the Bible state that a Christian must obey the secular laws of man, like the Constitution, as long as they do not conflict with God's laws?Answer: Yes, the Bible is clear that Christians should be 'law abiding' citizens. There is a time when 'civil disobedience' is in order, but this is not the focus of your question, so I will deal with the obedience aspect of civil law.
Romans 13:1-7 is probably the most familiar passage amongst theologians when it comes to answering a question like yours. God has set 'governments' in this world to make laws and to enforce them to keep order in society. A Christian should be the most obedient of such man made laws (that don't conflict with the Word of God) so that they can be bright 'lights' in their community!
One commentator on these passages has written the following:
He (God) is the source of all authority, and he has appointed human governments for the welfare of man. The existing government over us is to be regarded as a divine arrangement. It follows that he who seeks to break down his government is fighting the ordinance of God, and shall be liable to punishment. This implies a loyal submission to the forms of government over us. It does not imply that we shall obey wicked magistrates when they command us to disobey God."
In my opinion, the Constitution of the United States is a 'masterpiece'! Too bad that it no longer has the influence it once had upon our lawmakers and judges and our country as a whole!
The Lord Bless you as you serve Him!
Additional Resources
- What Do We Owe the Government? (online booklet) by Kurt De Haan
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