How do we navigate earthly authority while remaining faithful to God's commands?

Jeffrey D. Johnson emphasizes the importance of recognizing the authority God has given us by creating us in His image. As believers, we are called to protect and care for our families, ensuring their physical and spiritual well-being. This responsibility means we must carefully discern any actions or commands that could potentially harm our loved ones. Johnson points out that no one, not even governing authorities, has the right to compel us to act against our conscience when it comes to the health and safety of our families.

Our duty to love and protect our families aligns with the broader command to love God and our neighbor. This love sometimes requires resisting directives that contradict our understanding of God's will, especially when such directives could harm our children or ourselves. Johnson reminds us that true love does not submit to harm but rather seeks the good of others, even if it means standing against powerful earthly authorities. Our ultimate allegiance is to God's commands, which guide us in making decisions rooted in love and care.

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