The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates
Print Book
15 In Stock
A Proper Resistance to Tyranny and a Repudiation of Unlimited Obedience to Civil Government
Written by Matthew J. Trewhella
The world has entered troubling times. The rule of law is crumbling. The massive expansion of government power with frequently destructive laws and policies is of grave concern to many Christians. But what can be done to quell the abuse of power by civil authority? Are unjust or immoral actions by governments simply to be accepted and their lawless commands obeyed? How do we know when the government has acted tyrannically? Which actions constitute proper and legitimate resistance?
The author in this book places in your hands a hopeful Biblical blueprint for freedom. Appealing to the Word of God, he attempts to answer these questions and shows how believers can successfully resist the government attempts which trample on rights written into constitutions, that assault liberties, and that impugn the law of God. The doctrine of the lesser magistrates declares that when the superior or higher civil authority makes an unjust/immoral law or decree, the lesser or lower ranking civil authority has both the right and duty to refuse obedience to that superior authority. If necessary, the lower authority may even actively resist the superior authority.
Historically, this doctrine was practiced before the time of Christ and Christianity. It were Christians, however, who formalized and embedded it into their political institutions throughout Western Civilization. The doctrine of the lesser magistrates is a historic tool that provides proven guidelines for proper and legitimate resistance to tyranny, often without causing any major upheaval in society. The doctrine teaches Christians how to rein in lawless acts by governments and restore justice in their nation.
“Use this sword against my enemies, if I give righteous commands; but if I give unrighteous commands, use it against me.”-Roman Emperor Trajan, speaking to one of his subordinates.
Paperback, 115 pages, notes, bibliography
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