How should a Christian view law enforcement? Does the Bible say anything about the police?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The Bible has much to say about law, justice, doing the right thing, and both exercising and submitting to authority. The Old Testament emphasizes God's heart for justice and care for the vulnerable, with roles like watchmen and judges enforcing laws to protect the weak (Deuteronomy 16:18–20; Psalm 82:3–4; Proverbs 31:9; Nehemiah 4:6–14; Ezekiel 33:2–6). Christians should view law enforcement as part of the governing authorities established by God to promote justice and maintain order (Romans 13:1–7). Police officers, when acting with integrity and fairness, engage in work that aligns with God’s desire for justice and righteousness. While we are called to respect and support law enforcement, we should also advocate for accountability and policies that reflect God's standard of justice and compassion. Ultimately, Christians should approach law enforcement with respect for their role and a Christ-like commitment that upholds both justice and love for all people.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• God is a God of justice (Deuteronomy 32:4), and He instructs His people to pursue justice (Deuteronomy 16:20).
• Psalm 82:3–4 is instructive regarding God’s desire for justice: "Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked."
• The civil and judicial laws God gave the nation of Israel reflect His justice. When people did not follow the laws, specific restitutions and punishments were called for. Much of Leviticus and Deuteronomy can be understood as practice and law books for the priests and judges who were to uphold and enact the Law.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• In Romans 13, we are instructed to honor those in governing authority over us. "For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, for he is God's servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God's wrath on the wrongdoer. Therefore one must be in subjection, not only to avoid God's wrath but also for the sake of conscience. For because of this you also pay taxes, for the authorities are ministers of God, attending to this very thing" (Romans 13:3–6). Police officers are agents of the governmental authorities. When police truly "protect and serve" they are employed in good and godly work. Police and other law enforcement officers serve the least among us and protect us from all kinds of evil. It is a noble vocation fraught with danger that equates with God’s desire for justice and righteousness.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

As Christians, we are called to respect law enforcement as part of the governing authorities established by God (Romans 13:1–7). While we recognize that no human system is perfect, we can appreciate the role of law enforcement in promoting justice, protecting the vulnerable, and maintaining order. We should pray for law enforcement officials, law makers, and the like. First Timothy 2:1–2 says, “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” We can also support police officers in their challenging work, demonstrate gratitude, and encourage them to act with integrity and fairness. At the same time, we are to hold law enforcement accountable to the high standard of justice and compassion God requires, advocating for policies that reflect God's heart and lead to true justice. Ultimately, our view of law enforcement should reflect both a commitment to justice and a Christ-like love for all involved.

UNDERSTAND

• Law enforcement is part of our governing authorities, which we are called to honor.
• We should support law enforcement while also holding them accountable to pursue justice, righteousness, and compassion for others.
• God established order in society, and police officers are called to serve the community by maintaining order and justice.

REFLECT

• How can you show respect for law enforcement in your daily life, recognizing their role in maintaining justice and order?
• How can you pray for police officers and support them in their challenging work?
• How do you personally view or participate in promoting policies that reflect God's heart for justice and compassion?

ENGAGE

• How do you think Christians can effectively balance respect for law enforcement with the need to hold them to high standards?
• How can we help others view God’s purpose for and call to those in law enforcement?
• How can the church support both law enforcement and those who may feel oppressed or mistreated by them?