Every institution necessitates a body of rules. The government functions by employing a system of laws. Weak implementation of its laws denotes a weak administration. Society maintains order and harmony by enforcing rules. Picture the highways where road signs mean nothing and where motorists are free to zoom trashing speed limits and turning left and right. Recklessness and accidents are sure to sweep every thoroughfare. Even in school, regulations are printed on every student's handbook. The learning center would be in utter mess if the students were allowed to horse around and to do just as they please. Though they may be of varying degrees, moral standards and rules of conduct govern an individual. For the Christian, the Bible equips him with instruction and God's perfect law. Because they are necessary for orderly operation, rules, structures, and procedures are established in each institution. .
Man's sinful nature necessitates rules. When man is born, he is completely undisciplined. As a fully-grown man, he still has an innate tendency to oppose rules imposed upon him. Rebellion is one proof. Anarchy is another. Rebellion and anarchy are relatively of the same upbringing. Both come from defiance and refusal to be subject to law and order.
Rules are a safety line. They do not abolish freedom but make sure that every one enjoys his freedom without stepping on another man's freedom. Theodore Roosevelt wisely said, "The anarchist is everywhere not merely the enemy of system and of progress, but the deadly foe of liberty." A step out of that safety line spells danger. Examine the man who swerves and deviates from the line of restriction. Watch that man who crosses the safety line. Watch him fall! .
Permissiveness and leniency rule out the solidness of rules. To permit abortion and to resent capital punishment are absurd. Why kill the innocent and let the culprit live? Rules demarcate what is permitted and what is prohibited.
