Religious Obligation Cannot Be Legislated

Pacific Press Publishing Association · Mountain View, California · Feb 11, 1913

Religious Obligation Cannot Be Legislated

Man owes no duty or obligation in his relationship to God which demands legislation. God's commandment is itself an enabling act, and His grace and man's loyalty are sufficient to enforce the duty. But if loyalty or willingness is wanting on the part of man, no human law can create or enforce it. God wants willing hearts and willing service; naught else is acceptable; and He is abundantly able to care for His own. A law to enforce religious obligation is an insult to High Heaven.