Political differences
Now, there is much that we can and must do in these perilous times. We can give our opinions on the merits of the [political] situation as we see it, but never let us become a party to words or works of evil concerning our brothers and sisters in various nations on one side or the other. Political differences never justify hatred or ill will. I hope that the Lords people may be at peace one with another during times of trouble, regardless of what loyalties they may have to different governments or parties. President Gordon B. Hinckley, April 2003
First principles
58:2122. Let no man break the laws of the land, for he that keepeth the laws of God hath no need to break the laws of the land. Wherefore, be subject to the powers that be, until he reigns whose right it is to reign, and subdues all enemies under his feet.
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Civil law
As members of the Church and kingdom of God, what are our obligations as members of society living under civil authority? 98:47; 101:7680. The Lord on civil law and the Constitution.
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War
98:1316. The Lords law of war.
Just war. What kind of people make war? D&C 38:29; 45:69; 63:33; 76:2930. Offensive vs. defensive.
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Self-defense
134:11. All men are justified in defending themselves. What of military service?
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Fundamental rights
It is not the right of property which is protected, but the right to property. Property, per se, has no rights; but the individualthe manhas three great rights, equally sacred from arbitrary interference: the right to his life, the right to his liberty, and the right to his property. The three rights are so bound together as to be essentially one right. To give a man his life, but deny him his liberty, is to take from him all that makes life worth living. To give him liberty, but take from him the property which is the fruit and badge of his liberty, is to still leave him a slave. President David O. McKay, October 1962
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