The Doctrine Of Natural Law - 1203 Words

St. Paul opens what many hold to be his magnum opus with an apologetic. In Romans 1, Paul defends the omnipotence of God and His justice by claiming that all men, including those who would willingly reject God, know Him. Paul goes on to say that there is a natural order of things in this world. He speaks of the natural relations of mankind in such a way that moves beyond simply stating that these relations are the norm to say that they are the standard or rule against which actions can be judged. What Paul is talking about in the opening of Romans is the natural law. He makes a natural law argument not only for the morality of mankind, but also for the obviousness of God. The concept of natural law has been considered by philosophers and theologians alike throughout the ages. The Christians tradition of natural law can be primarily traced back to Thomas Aquinas. Even Augustine speaks of the overarching law of God which supersedes the derived and subordinate law of human rule. Despite its historical acceptance by theologians, the natural law is currently under attack from sources both within and without the church. The problem with abolishing the natural law, however, is not one of breaking with historical acceptance, without it there is no morality and no room for a Christian apologetic in any sphere. Natural law is the logical conclusion that there is some sort of inherent or built in rule that governs nature. Various categories fall under the general title of naturalShow MoreRelatedGeorgia Voluntary Payment Doctrine1501 Words   |  7 PagesGeorgia Voluntary Payment Doctrine The Georgia Voluntary Payment Doctrine is a policy that has been used in Georgia law since the 19th Century. It has been exercised so long that this policy has codified a statute. 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