DOING THE RIGHT THING

John Locke (1632-1704), the English philosopher, had a profound influence on the nation's founding fathers, as well as the Restoration Movement (i.e., the restoring of the New Testament  Christianity and the New Testament church), which resulted in the churches of Christ today.  Natural Law, presently out of favor with the politically correct crowd, are those codes of conduct we instinctively know are right.  

The laws of nature is reflected in the response in a recent TV commercial, "It was the right thing to do."  It is echoed by children at play, when they cry, "That's not fair."  There are some things that are just right in and of themselves.  Paul argues (Romans 2:12-14 and context) that the gentiles living before the Gospel will be judged by Natural Law.  The Apostle to the Gentiles (Paul) had previously (Romans 1:24-32) enumerated a number of sins that violates nature's laws.

Today, like those in the first century who "did not like to retain God in their knowledge," (Romans 1:28), the godless media and Hollywood have turned their backs on the God of our founding fathers.  Their abandonment of nature's laws are reflected in Paul's list of sins against nature.   In God's list of sins against natural law  (Romans 1:24-32), we find homosexualism, fornication (two of Hollywood's favorite recreations), murder (abortion), back biters, haters of God, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, covenant breakers, without natural affection, and unmerciful.  Take special note of the last verse, "knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them."

Beyond Natural Law we have the Bible or Revealed Law.  God has revealed how He wants the creatures created in his image to conduct themselves in the Gospel.  In Romans one we find that "the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hinder the truth in unrighteousness" ( Romans 1:18 ASV).  The "righteousness of God revealed" in the Gospel or New Testament.  It, the New Testament, therefore becomes not only a handbook for God's church but a code book for godly living.  Following God's will is always the right thing to do! 

Dale I. Royal, Elk City OK