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by Barbara Latta @barbaralatta
Some theologians have declared that American resistance to
British rule was unscriptural and that the founding fathers acted in
disobedience to the Bible by fighting. However, by doing so they are using
selective reasoning and taking Scripture out of context to support their views.
Over the centuries, the British monarchy became a
self-appointed god. James I introduced the Divine Right of Kings which states
that kings stand in the place of God, representing Him to the people. Complete Submission and Non-Resistance to
Authority states that kings have an allegedly divine position and are not to be
resisted ever for any reason. This principle was carried out to the point of
torture and murder of those who stood for biblical rights according to Scripture.
The Bible teaches us in many places to obey civil laws
except when those laws resist God’s Word. When the Israelites were under the
rule of heathen nations, God raised up judges and prophets such as Gideon,
Samson, and Deborah to fight against lawlessness and free his people so they
could worship Him again.
Peter and John were arrested for breaking the religious laws.
But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We
ought to obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29 NKJV)
Paul was imprisoned numerous times for preaching the gospel
despite the religious laws. God’s laws supersedes those of mankind.
Our forefathers followed these biblical examples to stand
against an abuse of power by a man who ruled as a god. Because of these brave
men (and women too), we now have the right to worship God. (Although some laws
passed in the last few years seek to inhibit that ability).
Soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, and coast guard personnel fight battles all over the
world while we rest safely in our homes.
Jesus suffered in ways we can’t comprehend to release us
from the debt of sin.
Freedom is not free for those who pay the price to release
others from bondage. But it is free for those who enjoy the benefits.
Our military paid the price for our political freedom. Jesus
paid the price for our spiritual freedom.
Christ gave us the right to use His authority and live in
His identity because He wiped away the debt of sin for us.
America is a free nation today because of the men who opposed
a king who ruled in the place of God. They stood on biblical principles and
founded our country with godly wisdom.
Happy Independence Day! God bless America and may she
continue to be a beacon of freedom and hope to the world.
Join the conversation and share your thoughts.
Well said! Barbara, your message is a timely reminder of the cost of our freedom--and the importance of our diligence and prayer to maintain it. Above all, it is most important to seek our Savior, to receive the freedom derived from His sacrifice of love for us. Wishing you a blessed Independence Day.
ReplyDeleteI never want to take for granted what someone has fought and died to give me. I sure don't want to take for granted what Jesus did for me. Thanks for sharing, Katherine. Blessings!
DeleteGood job, Barbara.
ReplyDeleteNeeded to be said for anyone who wonders.
Thanks!
Thank you for sharing. Blessings!
DeleteInstilling an appreciation of what our "freedom" means is important. I'm afraid that the younger generations take it for granted. Important
ReplyDeleteYes, Candyce, a lot of the younger generation does not realize the cost someone else paid for them to be able to play their video games, have food, and a place to live. This is why teaching true history is so important. Thanks for sharing. Blessings!
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