The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates

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Air Date: November 21, 2013

Host: Jim Schneider

Guest: Matt Trewhella

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Matt Trewhella is the pastor of Mercy Seat Christian Church and founder of Missionaries to the Preborn. He is the author of ‘The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates’.

‘Magistrate’ is an old English word that is still used in some areas of the Eastern and Southern U.S. to refer to an official within political and civil government whether elected or appointed.

The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates states that when a higher ranking or superior authority creates unjust or immoral laws and policies, the lesser ranking civil authority has both the right and the duty before God to not only not obey but to actively resist such unjust laws.

This idea was formalized into a doctrine by Christian men in the year 1550 in Magdeburg, Germany, but was practiced long before that. The signing of the Magna Carta, for example, was the Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrate put into action. An excellent example from Scripture is the account of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego as each of these men had authority within the Babylonian government. Another example includes Patrick Henry’s efforts for American freedom during his time as a magistrate in Virginia.

As the rule of law continues to deteriorate in America, is it possible that there are instances where the Lesser Magistrate Doctrine should be executed? Matt believes there is, most notably in the fight for the preborn.

Join Jim and Matt as they analyze the historic roots and applications of this little known doctrine, the principle of interposition and more.

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To obtain a copy of Matt’s book, ‘The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates: A Proper Resistance to Tyranny and a Repudiation of Unlimited Obedience’ call 262-628-9169.

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