The Christian view of Law is based in the notion that Biblical or divine law is an expression of the very character of God who is loving and righteous and who created the universe. This God always and absolutely hates the perversion of justice.

Divine law is permanent and eternal and will be used to judge the world (Acts 17:31). Romans 2:12-15 tells us that natural and revealed law will both be the basis for this judgment, so all men are without excuse.

God's law is also manifested everywhere in His creation. Natural law gives order and design to a world that was once "tohu a vohu" (formless and void). The universe is held together by the Word of God, Colossians tells us. Even our bodies are a living manifestation of this order. God is the supreme legislator, judge and jury and well as chief executive of the universe.

God has instituted law for man's well being. Because of man's separation from God in the fall, man no longer operates before the face of God in full recognition of His holiness. The law was given as a teacher to convict of sin, righteousness and judgment. Instead of welcoming this great exhibition of grace, some have further rebelled and declared war on God for His trouble. Because of the fall, human history reflects man's futile attempts to abrogate that law and substitute manmade rules and plans in its place.

By Law is the knowledge of sin (Romans 3:20). God established human government and the rule of law (Lex Rex) primarily to keep man's sinful nature and passions in check. Christians realize that obedience to the law cannot save them from sin (Galatians 3:11).Human government's purview is not to establish a church or save men's souls but to protect individuals from harm.

Romans 13 provides us with one of the most important legal documents in the history of civilization. We learn the following precepts there: Men are called to obey magisterial authority. Governing authorities are ordained and regulated by God. The call here is to obey those in authority and power, not those who merely have power. Resistance to divinely appointed authority results in divinely appointed judgment. Government is a minister invested with authority in order that it promote justice. When a government fails to act in accordance with God's law it becomes unjust and abrogates its authority. The state is endowed by God with the power of capital punishment. God gives the power of the sword to the state in order to enforce justice. Obedience to civil authority is not optional for the Christian. By doing so we honor God Himself.

Must a Christian never disobey civil authorities? Of course not. Acts 5:29 informs us of this. If civil authority compels us to act in a manner that is in opposition to God's commands, we must obey God rather than man. Civil disobedience must never extend to resisting laws we simply don't like.

God's word is sufficient for mankind to establish a legal system that enforces human rights and protects human life itself. Out of the created order and special revelation and the incarnation of Christ flows a comprehensive system that includes justice, order, mercy, liberty, property rights, and the pursuit of happiness.

In the final analysis, the law of God is an expression of His grace. Love and compassion and concern for mankind led him to favor us with an expression of His character in preparation for the full expression of His nature in Christ. Thus it is said that Christ has fulfilled the law.