Law is an ancient and influential field, shaping societies and seeking to promote justice across millennia. From the intricate codes of Hammurabi to the ever-evolving complexities of modern legal systems, law reflects humanity’s longing for order and fairness. For Christians, studying law offers unique opportunities to understand and reflect God’s justice, mercy, and truth in the world. How might a Christian perspective shape your view of legal studies? What purposes might God have in mind for you as you pursue a degree or career in law?
Working for the wellbeing of creation
At its core, law serves as a means to regulate human relationships and promote the common good. Its purpose mirrors God's command in Genesis 1:28 to "fill the earth and subdue it" and to exercise stewardship over creation. Lawyers, legislators, and judges contribute to the wellbeing of society by maintaining justice, protecting the vulnerable, and resolving disputes.
Studying law equips students with skills to influence culture for the better. By learning how legal systems operate, you’ll be prepared to work in areas like human rights, environmental law, family law, or community advocacy. These arenas allow Christians to promote fairness, peace, and care for creation.
Moreover, the law provides a framework for addressing brokenness in the world. In a fallen creation, injustices abound: corruption, exploitation, and inequality are pervasive. As legal professionals, Christians are uniquely positioned to challenge these wrongs and pursue restoration. For example, advocating for the oppressed or defending those wrongly accused echoes the biblical call to “seek justice, encourage the oppressed, defend the fatherless, [and] plead the case of the widow” (Isaiah 1:17).
Yet, the Christian lawyer must navigate these challenges with humility and integrity. In a world where power can easily corrupt, we are called to rule “in God’s image”—using the law as a tool for healing rather than harm. In doing so, we embody Christ’s mission to bring good news to the poor and freedom to the oppressed (Luke 4:18).
Christian voices are vital in this field because law is not just a technical process but also a deeply moral endeavour. Decisions in courtrooms and legislatures often raise profound ethical questions. From debates on religious freedom and bioethics to the pursuit of racial justice, Christians can provide a voice rooted in love, truth, and a vision of human flourishing grounded in the gospel.
Worshipping the God we work for
The study of law reveals much about God’s character. In the Bible, God is a lawgiver, whose statutes reflect his justice, mercy, and holiness. Engaging deeply with legal principles allows students to marvel at the wisdom and order of God’s creation and His passion for justice.
Take, for example, the notion of justice. God’s justice is perfect and impartial, yet it is always tempered by mercy. This divine balance, rooted in His holy and merciful character, challenges legal professionals to pursue fairness without losing sight of compassion. When you study principles like due process, equality before the law, or restorative justice, you can reflect on how they echo God’s own nature.
Moreover, grappling with human law can lead us to worship as we recognize its limitations. Human systems, no matter how well designed, are flawed because of sin. This contrast deepens our longing for God’s perfect justice and the ultimate restoration of all things. As law students, you may face frustrations with the bureaucracy or injustices within legal systems, but these experiences can lead you to prayer and dependence on God.
Legal studies can also cultivate gratitude and humility. The complexity of laws and their impact on society are a reminder of how much wisdom is required to govern well. Each insight into legal systems is an invitation to thank the Creator who designed humanity with the capacity for reason, morality, and justice.
In your academic journey, take moments to worship God for the order and fairness that underpin legal frameworks. Whether through studying case law, debating legal principles, or analysing statutes, your work can become an act of worship, pointing you back to the ultimate lawgiver.
Witnessing to the world
Law is an area where faith and culture frequently intersect, providing unique opportunities for evangelism. Legal studies naturally raise questions about morality, fairness, and the meaning of justice—topics that point to God’s nature and the gospel.
For instance, conversations about human rights can lead to discussions about the source of those rights. Why do we believe all humans deserve dignity and respect? The Christian worldview provides a compelling answer: every person is made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27).
Similarly, legal debates often wrestle with questions of guilt, punishment, and redemption. These themes resonate deeply with the gospel, where ultimate justice and mercy meet at the cross. Sharing how Christ paid the penalty for sin to reconcile humanity to God can be a natural extension of these discussions.
Christian law students and professionals can also witness through their conduct. In environments that can be highly competitive or even corrupt, a commitment to integrity, humility, and service sets believers apart. Your interactions with peers, professors, and clients can demonstrate the transforming power of Christ’s love.
Humanity's shared longing for justice and deliverance offer a profound opportunity for witness. The gospel speaks directly to the root causes of the brokenness and injustice that lawyers encounter daily, revealing how God addressed the problem of sin by sending Jesus to bear its penalty and reconcile humanity to Himself. As people seek healing in the face of suffering and hope in the midst of injustice, you can invite them to consider Jesus’ claims to offer true peace, forgiveness, and eternal life.
Whether through conversations about justice, acts of kindness, or an invitation to explore biblical principles, your studies in law can open doors to share the hope of the gospel.
Conclusion
Studying law as a Christian is both a profound privilege and a significant responsibility. It offers the chance to contribute to the flourishing of creation, honour and worship the God of justice, and bear witness in a world in need of restoration. While the journey may be challenging, it is also deeply rewarding. As you dedicate yourself to your studies, trust that God will work through your efforts to make a lasting impact for His kingdom.
Reflect and discuss
Think: Think back over what you have studied so far in your degree. Where have you seen God's fingerprints? Where have ideas presented to you challenged what you believed to be true?
Live: What do you think your coursemates would know about what is important to you from the way you live? Is there anything you want to change here?
Speak: Are there topics in your subject that are closer to talking about your outlook on life, God or the gospel? Pray for people on your course and for opportunities to share about Jesus with them this term.
Taking it further
- UCCF Law Network Resources
- A Biblical view of law and justice, David Mcllroy.
- The Lawyer's Calling: Christian Faith and Legal Practice, Joseph Allegretti.
