LEGAL PROTECTION

The three "uses of the law" refer to how moral law is used to restrain sinfulness, to convict sinners of sin, and to teach Christians how to live in a way pleasing to the Lord.

The political or civil use of the law refers to the law's function in restraining sin, especially among the unregenerate. For instance, God's laws against murder, adultery, and theft may encourage unregenerate individuals to avoid committing these sins.

Our current legal system parrots much of what God established in Ancient Israel. Creating laws is the legislation of morality and it is incumbent upon Christians to obey, adhere to, and enforce these moral laws; "Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people" (Titus 3:1–2).

However, as history has shown, immoral and oppressive laws are often enacted by secular and evil lawmakers (Isaiah 10:1-4). This makes Holy living by Christians difficult when the laws we are ordered to obey are in strict contradictions with the Laws of God. Peter and the Apostles gave us the answer the the Book of Acts: “We must obey God rather than men" (Acts 5:29 ESV).

This means doing whatever is necessary (and within the confines of the law) to protect ourselves, our family, and our estate.  Believers are exhorted to gird up the loins of their mind—to be prepared for action and in doing that to keep a sober or alert spirit (1 Peter 1:13). In these situations it is incumbent on Christians, Churches, and faith-based communities to use the legal system to fight against evil, oppression, and subjugation.