(3) The Law of the Land.

As disciples of Christ we are taught to obey the law of the land in which we live. But the duties of our new life in Christ may make us want to do things for God and for others, which are above and beyond the requirements of any man-made law. Man's law may also require us to do things that the law of Christ forbids. Whenever possible the Christian obeys the law of the land, but there are times when he cannot and God comes first:

"Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." (Romans 13:1-2).

"But Peter and John replied, 'Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.'" (Acts 4:19-20).