Is it sinful to break laws that are not enforced?

The question of whether it is sinful to break laws that are not enforced is a nuanced one that requires careful consideration from a biblical perspective. As a non-denominational Christian pastor, it is essential to delve into the principles of Scripture, the teachings of Jesus, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit to provide a comprehensive answer.

Firstly, it is crucial to understand the biblical perspective on law and authority. The Bible emphasizes the importance of obeying the laws of the land and respecting those in authority. In Romans 13:1-2, the Apostle Paul writes, "Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." This passage underscores the belief that governmental authorities are established by God and that obeying the law is a form of submitting to God's ordained order.

However, the question at hand involves laws that are not enforced. Does the lack of enforcement change the moral obligation to obey such laws? To address this, we must consider the nature of law and its purpose. Laws are established to maintain order, protect citizens, and promote justice. The enforcement of laws ensures that these objectives are met. When laws are not enforced, it may create a perception that they are less important or that compliance is optional. Nevertheless, the intrinsic value of the law does not diminish simply because it is not actively enforced.

From a biblical standpoint, obedience to the law is not solely contingent on the presence of enforcement. Christians are called to live by a higher standard of righteousness that transcends legal enforcement. Jesus, in His Sermon on the Mount, emphasized the importance of internal righteousness over mere external conformity to the law. In Matthew 5:17-20, Jesus says, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven."

Jesus' teaching highlights that true righteousness involves a heart that seeks to honor God and His commandments, regardless of external enforcement. Therefore, the question of whether it is sinful to break unenforced laws must be considered in light of our commitment to living a life that reflects God's holiness and righteousness.

Moreover, breaking laws, even those that are not enforced, can have broader implications for society and one's witness as a Christian. Christians are called to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13-16), which means living in a way that exemplifies integrity, honesty, and respect for authority. When Christians choose to disregard laws, even unenforced ones, it can undermine their testimony and potentially lead others astray. The Apostle Peter writes in 1 Peter 2:13-17, "Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor."

Peter's exhortation emphasizes that submission to authority and obedience to the law are part of living a life that honors God and silences criticism from those who do not believe. Even if a law is not actively enforced, choosing to obey it demonstrates a commitment to upholding the principles of order and justice that God values.

It is also important to consider the concept of conscience in relation to obeying the law. The Apostle Paul addresses the role of conscience in Romans 14:22-23, where he writes, "So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who does not condemn himself by what he approves. But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, because their eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin." This passage suggests that acting against one's conscience is sinful, even if the action itself is not inherently wrong. If a Christian feels convicted that breaking an unenforced law is wrong, then doing so would be a violation of their conscience and, therefore, sinful.

Furthermore, the principle of loving one's neighbor, as taught by Jesus, is relevant to this discussion. In Matthew 22:37-40, Jesus summarizes the law with two great commandments: "‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." Breaking laws, even those not enforced, can have consequences that affect others. For example, traffic laws, health regulations, and safety codes are designed to protect the well-being of individuals and communities. Disregarding such laws, even if there is no immediate enforcement, can endanger others and fail to demonstrate love and consideration for our neighbors.

In conclusion, from a biblical perspective, it is not merely the enforcement of laws that determines whether breaking them is sinful. Christians are called to a higher standard of righteousness that honors God, respects authority, and demonstrates love for others. Obeying laws, even those that are not enforced, aligns with the biblical principles of submission to authority, integrity, and love. Acting against one's conscience and disregarding the potential impact on others can lead to sin. Therefore, it is essential for Christians to thoughtfully and prayerfully consider their actions in light of God's Word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, striving to live in a manner that reflects God's holiness and righteousness in all aspects of life.