Here is an unpopular truth: God commands, “Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors…For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men” (1 Peter 2:13-15).
Did you see the word “every”? This would include laws that some people consider trivial, such as wearing a seatbelt, obeying the speed limit, or obeying copyright laws. The exception would be a law that requires one to break God’s Law. In that case, “…We ought to obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29).
God also said that those who rebel against civil law without repenting and getting forgiveness “shall receive to themselves damnation” (Romans 13:2).
Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake” (Romans 13:1-5).
Good article. Thank you.