How should Christians navigate obedience to governmental authorities?

Jeffrey D. Johnson challenges the notion that Christians should follow any state directive unless it explicitly contradicts Scripture. He argues that believers are called to obey the state only within its legitimate sphere of authority. This principle is akin to the jurisdiction we have over our families, where we may offer advice to others, but lack the authority to impose it. Similarly, the state should not overreach its bounds, especially in areas where it lacks divine sanction.

Johnson warns against the state's tendency to assume a god-like role, demanding total allegiance and control over individuals' lives. This elevation of the state to a place of ultimate authority is akin to paganism, where the government becomes a false deity. While Christians are called to respect civil authorities, this does not extend to surrendering God-given rights over personal conscience and family protection. Believers must discern when state demands infringe upon these divinely ordained rights.

Acts 5:29 (NKJV): "But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: 'We ought to obey God rather than men.'"