Expert: Elder Greg Madden - 7/24/2008

Question
Does Scripture tell us that God tells us to "follow man's law"? If so, what Scripture is that?

Answer
Joyce,

Thank you for your question. Yes, the Scriptures do teach us to follow "man's laws", as long as they are not in contradiction to God's Word. For example, during world war two, many Christians died trying to hide and protect Jewish people who were being exterminated by the fascists. The so-called "man's law" at that time decalaired all Jew to be killed, and anyone protecting them was subject to death as well.

Here are some Scriptures that support this...

Acts 5:29
Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.

But in such cases where "man's law" does not contradict God's Word, it is therefore to be obeyed.

Mt. 22:2
They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.

Romans 13:1-6
1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:
4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.
5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.

Joyce, please let me know if this helps or if you have any further questions.

Elder Greg Madden
http://www.forministry.com/USOKPENTEMMM1