Free video lessons from Pastor Matt →
★ 150,000+ copies sold

Obey God rather than men.
Here's how.

4.8 out of 5 from 742 Amazon ratings

The Bible-based answer to the question every Christian is asking: what do we do when rulers command what God forbids?

Also on Kindle · Audible

133 pages. Read it in a weekend. Free lessons: When to Obey, When to Refuse
The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates by Matthew J. Trewhella
150K+Copies
sold
“I only gave it five stars because I couldn't give it more.”Taylor S. · Goodreads review
“Every American should read this book.”Kathleen M. · Verified Amazon review
742 ratings. 97% are 4 or 5 stars.

Here's what readers say.

Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn
Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn (Ret.)Former National Security Advisor
“A masterful blueprint showing Americans how to successfully resist tyranny when government attempts to trample our rights, our liberties, our Constitution, and worse, to impugn the law of God.”
Capt. Seth Keshel
Capt. Seth KeshelCaptain K's Corner
“Your orders are to procure a copy of The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates, by Matthew Trewhella, to read it, and to spread it to anyone who has eyes and ears.”
Pastor Dan Fisher
Pastor Dan FisherLiberty Pastors
“The Doctrine of Lesser Magistrates is a must read for everyone who loves liberty and hates tyranny.”
Ron W.Reviewed in Canada
Amazon
Most important book of our time

If you hate the Tyranny of the last two years get this book and get involved.

Verified Purchase · Sep 2022
BigPapiAudible listener
Audible
Very important book for now

Very important book to understand how to address the culture war against christians today. God's law is not changeable.

Oct 2022
SuzannahAuthor · Goodreads
Goodreads

Great, short, simple, clear primer on the doctrine of the lesser magistrates. ... The kind of book you want to have a few copies on hand for giving away.

Apr 2017
hohopes-bloomReviewed in United States
Amazon
Don't miss this one

This is simply a must read for any person of faith who, deep within, senses something is not right with prevalent theology of the role of the church as it relates to civil affairs and obedience... It told me everything I knew in my gut, but which I didn't have well formalized or have a solid grip on any historical basis for my thoughts.

Verified Purchase · Nov 2021
ChykchaAudible listener
Audible
A must read

Everyone should read this very important book. Our country is in a full blown crisis, at the brink of collapse. We need lesser magistrates to stand up now.

Aug 2022
Joshua J.Goodreads reader
Goodreads

An excellent primer on the subject. A paradigm shifter for those who have not heard of the doctrine. Much needed.

Dec 2020
Evelyn S.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
A Happy Customer

I highly recommend this book. It's especially helpful in a day when Tyrants want to rule and the people are left with few options...Interposition Ing is a very important tool in the box

Verified Purchase · May 2025
ChaseAudible listener
Audible
No sovereign but God, no king but Jesus.

Not very often do you find a book with information this valuable. A special thanks is due.

Apr 2024
JohnGoodreads reader
Goodreads

The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates is a largely unknown doctrine, rooted deeply in the Bible, natural law, and history. Matthew Trewhella's short book on the doctrine is a great introduction and argument for this doctrine.

Jan 2021
BKulbisReviewed in United States
Amazon
Enlightening

This is a must read in our current culture, and a must for every elected official to read and do.

Verified Purchase · Jun 2023
RobinAudible listener
Audible
Excellent lesson!

Restoring knowledge that has been forgotten, and not taught in modern day. Let us all stand strong and stand in the gap when magistrates and governments rule unrighteously. May God be with us.

Mar 2023
Zak G.Goodreads reader
Goodreads

An essential biblical framework for understanding the role of government, the magistrates that government is composed of, and the people.

Feb 2026
Bob S.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
This Book Should Be Read by All.

The principals taught in this book are essential to maintain freedom.

Verified Purchase · Dec 2022
Charles B.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
Excellent

An important and valuable read for those concerned about the current state of our nation. This topic has been important throughout all of civilized history.

Verified Purchase · Jun 2022
arleneReviewed in United States
Amazon
great information

people should read it so they will know how to defend themselves when attacked by legal lies

Verified Purchase · Oct 2021
Kevin W.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
Every pastor and liberty/morally minded government official should read/own

I won't say much other than this is arguably the most important work for our times (covid lockdowns and other infringements upon liberty). The Doctrine of Lesser Magistrates and the Magdeburg confession is arguably Lutheranism's greatest legacy to the US in which James Madison himself used to justify the War for Independence. ...

Verified Purchase · Jul 2021
Hal R.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
A Hidden Aspect of America's Origins That Needs Teaching

This study of the "Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates" is a mostly overlooked foundational idea underlying a critical element in our Constitution and the nation it created. Federalism is often mentioned, and to some degree explained - but the most important principle underlying federalism is, actually, this doctrine. Read it

Verified Purchase · Apr 2021
Amazon CustomerReviewed in United States
Amazon
Great book for our church leaders

Our church leaders are not leading or teaching us truth as it applies to politics, as if God is not God over this area of our lives!

Jan 2021
Taylor S.Goodreads reader
Goodreads

I only gave it five stars because I couldn't give it more. This is an excellent primer and category former of forgotten teachings of the Christian and local/national civic responsibility.

Jan 2021
ctjugglerReviewed in Canada
Amazon
Good introduction and case for the doctrine

Presents a strong and clear Biblical case for the doctrine of the lesser magistrate. Also gives historical context. ... Buy two, one for yourself and one for your local lesser magistrate!

Verified Purchase · Aug 2020
Rami T.Audible listener
Audible
You may want to get out a notebook.

This book is packed with info and you want a time line to keep things straight but the most amazing part is that it is pretty much spot on

Jun 2021
LanaGoodreads reader
Goodreads

This should be required reading for high school students and especially Christians. Trewhella gives a clear, easy to understand explanation of the right and duty of everyone in a position of authority to resist and disobey laws which are contrary to God's law.

Feb 2022
Lyle F.Reviewed in Canada
Amazon
Very good history and relevant today still

It was a very quick read but gave much detail. ... Very interesting stuff!

Verified Purchase · Dec 2020
Dawn B.Audible listener
Audible
A Must Read For Every Christian

The culture has infested the Church, causing her to be impotent and afraid of conflict. By abdicating its biblical role as a check and balance on the State, the Church has allowed wolves to abuse the sheep... The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrate is a biblical concept that promotes the respect for law.

Dec 2021
David L.Goodreads reader
Goodreads

Excellent. Summary and defense of the duty of lesser magistrates to oppose tyranny when the rule of law is subverted. Every American Christian should read this.

May 2026
JGReviewed in United States
Amazon
Solid Arguments

The author makes thoughtful arguments that should be part of anyone's survey of civics.

Verified Purchase · Nov 2024
JordanAudible listener
Audible
Must read for all Christians

Must read for all Christians. Common sense backed with scripture and application examples for modern day reality

Mar 2026
JerryGoodreads reader
Goodreads

It's not obedience to Romans 13 to obey a disobedient ruler. We need to be Christians and citizens, not subjects of capricious and tyrannical rulers. Contact the publisher for a bulk discount and pass these out.

Jul 2020
S. S.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
Every church must have a copy of this book.

This book is an eye opening for all those looking for an answer of why is that churches aren't doing anything to counter act the over reaching of the federal government on every aspect of our lives, throwing propaganda to diminish the good morals and values, family unity, value of human life, etc. ...

Verified Purchase · Jan 2023
Stephen M.Audible listener
Audible
All need to hear this!

This is a must read for all God fearing Americans. I opened a Bible to compare what was said in the book. Solid information.

Jan 2022
Joost N.Goodreads reader
Goodreads

This short book is really needed today, and the ignorance of this topic among leaders in whatever vocation is one major factor in why the culture is headed over the cliff at the speed of sound.

Jul 2021
Wayne R.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
Should be read by all!

Absolutely loved this book, I think every freedom loving person should take the time to read and digest this book! I can highly recommend this book!

Verified Purchase · Feb 2022
Frequent buyerReviewed in United States
Amazon
Excellent. Thank you!

Every believer needs to read this book, especially during these days of godless tyranny! Thank God for the Reformers, the Church of 1776, and leaders like MLK in the 1960’s. Let the people of God arise before it’s too late. Highly recommend this book!

Verified Purchase · Oct 2021
DanReviewed in United States
Amazon
A must read book

Thank you Matt for writing such a great book to be used as a teaching tool for our local magistrates! This is a must read for every citizen!

Jul 2021
Bobbie S.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
Very important read!

So far this is an excellent read. I wish this were a book that schools required to be read. I am telling many about this book. Certainly glad I heard about it and wrote down the title to do a search.

Verified Purchase · Apr 2021
DubReviewed in United States
Amazon
A must-read

This was convicting and encouraging. As a mom, I have often wondered how to raise free men and women as the rest of society rejoices in their bondage to sin and lasciviousness. This book was an excellent primer, deeply biblical, and I look forward to reading more of the resources in it. ...

Verified Purchase · Dec 2020
YupAudible listener
Audible
The hope of freedom!

Lord bless us all with strength & courage to use the tools you have provided us here. In Jesus name Amen

May 2024
Ed G.Goodreads reader
Goodreads

Excellent! A short read packed with great biblical and historical information. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

Dec 2020
Ken S.Reviewed in Canada
Amazon
Clears up misconceptions about Romans 13

An outstanding book... It clears up misconceptions about Romans 13, and makes clear through biblical and historical examples, our responsibility to resist tyrants.

Feb 2021
RobertAudible listener
Audible
On Point

This book is right on point. ... We must obey our Creator. We must turn from madness, seek goodness, and live.

Jan 2022
Orion M.Goodreads reader
Goodreads

This is a doctrine I will never forget, and I will share this with everyone I can.

Dec 2020
Gary G.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
A Patriots Guide

Excellent read for understanding how patriots can deal with [un]constitutional mandates of out of control authorities.

Verified Purchase · Nov 2025
NixRaineAudible listener
Audible
A must read for every true Constitutional Patriot

Rich in history and sound Biblical truth. A loud and much needed call to action.

Jan 2023
Adam T. CalvertAuthor · Goodreads
Goodreads

The subtitle says it all: “A Proper Resistance to Tyranny and a Repudiation of Unlimited Obedience to Civil Government.” ... The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates helps us figure that out.

Mar 2015
William T.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
This book is COMPLETELY relevant to major issues in American politics

The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates recognizes the hierarchical nature of all human organizations, from families to villages to states and nations. Knowing that human beings at the top of any given hierarchy are prone to make mistakes, this book argues that lower-level leaders have a responsibility to protect the people below them from mistakes made On High. ...

Verified Purchase · Oct 2023
Toby A.Audible listener
Audible
Excellent content that needs to be understood

This book clearly defines the boundary of authority the government has in the life of a Christian (and anyone with any authority), and also clearly identifies the responsibilities of a Christian to respond when government steps outside its God-given boundaries.

Jun 2022
RoniGoodreads reader
Goodreads

This book is an excellent overview of the Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates and recommended reading for all Christians.

May 2021
Jason O.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
A must for all Christians and people who love their country

A must for all Christians and people who love their country. This book will get your mind working and renew a passion for Christ and your country!

Verified Purchase · Dec 2022
AmazoniaReviewed in United States
Amazon
An exceptional look

This challenged my thinking and understanding! I found myself checking references and quoted passages and discussing key concepts with others throughout this read. A really excellent presentation on the topic.

Verified Purchase · Nov 2022
Randy B.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
A MUST KNOW BOOK

This book is the WHY the USA as a Republic has kept us as Individuals FREE. And for anyone that wants to GET INVOLVED AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE THIS IS THE BOOK!

Verified Purchase · Dec 2021
kfennReviewed in United States
Amazon
Excellent Book for our times

This book is a necessity for those who want a solid, biblical, and historical foundation for responding to tyranny. This is not about rebellion but how to respond to tyrants that oppose the law.

Verified Purchase · Sep 2021
Amazon CustomerReviewed in United States
Amazon
Wow. Very helpful and full of information!

Great read. Learned a ton in just the first chapter! He gives references to look into also. This kind of literature should be standard in American households.

Verified Purchase · Jun 2021
Amazon CustomerReviewed in United States
Amazon
Excellent book

A great Biblical and historical perspective on the doctrine of the lesser Magistrate. I do highly recommend it. Very good

Verified Purchase · Mar 2021
D. S.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
Very relevant

In a time where liberties are being stripped, this serves as a wake up call to those interested in preserving liberty.

Dec 2020
Kathleen M.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
How we can stop tyranny in California and other places

This is a great book that is so helpful. Trewhella outlines how this doctrine has been implemented many times in the Bible and in history, and how we can use it today. He reminds us that tyrants always depend on lower ranking magistrates to carry out their nefarious orders. If officials refuse to carry them out, they are stopped. ... Every American should read this book.

Verified Purchase · Oct 2023
AskMeAnythingAudible listener
Audible

This book does a great job explaining the Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrate.

Nov 2021
PhilGoodreads reader
Goodreads

Excellent! This is a book I wish was in the hands of every Christian, especially pastors, in 2020 when the state commanded us to shut down our economy and churches. ... I highly recommend it for pastors, magistrates, police officers, etc.

May 2026
ValentinaReviewed in Italy
Amazon
A must read.

A must read book for every Christian... Brilliant book. God bless the author.

Verified Purchase · Sep 2021
KAMAudible listener
Audible
Loved the consistent ties to scripture and history

An excellent summary tied with consistent arguments based from scripture and from history. Very convicting.

Apr 2026
StephanieGoodreads reader
Goodreads

A good, short and important read. After listening, I purchased the hard copy so I can put it in my morning basket to read to my kids!

Apr 2022
keithReviewed in United States
Amazon
good book a must read

I encourage all Christians should read this book on how to defend your God given civil rights.

Verified Purchase · Dec 2024
Audible listenerAudible listener
Audible
Biblical references

Excellent! I'll be referring this book to my friends. God bless you and your family.

Dec 2024
Blake I.Goodreads reader
Goodreads

Good introductory / overview to the topic. Digs into enough of the roots of these ideas within the Reformation to give you a next step for some deeper concepts and events.

Mar 2021
Amazon CustomerReviewed in United States
Amazon
Great book and very timely

This is a really good book to read and think about seriously. I don't know exactly where the line is to be drawn but I definitely agree that more local, lesser government officials should not just automatically obey their superiors. He presents a lot of really good biblical arguments and this is an easy read and easy to understand.

Verified Purchase · May 2023
Tim W.Audible listener
Audible
All Americans need to hear this!

This was full of excellent and really relevant information that is indisputable. Well done! I cannot recommend this more than I do.

May 2021
JoshGoodreads reader
Goodreads

An excellent introductory book the church is in dire need of.

May 2019
pjjReviewed in United States
Amazon
Absolute Hope

This book gave me so much hope. We have another choice! Until now, it seemed we had only two: submit to godless tyrants (in Christ's name) or take up revolutionary arms against the cheating overlords (also in Christ's name), neither of which is desired. ...

Verified Purchase · Aug 2022
TracyReviewed in United States
Amazon
Read this book!

Written for such times as we live. Everyone should read this but especially anyone holding office on any level in any govt.. Explains the role of the people and Magistrates needing to stand up to tyrants and those in authority who are abusing their power.

Verified Purchase · Dec 2021
AmazonKDLReviewed in United States
Amazon
Christians should read this book!

Pastor Matt Trewhella wrote a powerful book on the doctrine of Lesser magistrates. Highly recommend everyone read this book.

Verified Purchase · Aug 2021
JgunterReviewed in United States
Amazon
Must Read

Every Christian needs to read and digest this book. So many misquoted scriptures are used to teach mindless submission to government overarch. This doctrine needs to be heralded from pulpits far and wide.

Verified Purchase · May 2021
Carrie B.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
Thankful for God's providence in providing this book

I am a big fan of Matt Trewhella and all of the great work he does in fighting for the pre-born and standing against tyranny. I originally read it before the COVID "crisis" and loved it then, but had no idea how much it would be needed in 2020/2021. ...

Mar 2021
Tony M.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
Very engaging

Need to know information presented in an understandable format. If you are a christian and unsure about Romans 13 you should read this.

Verified Purchase · Oct 2020
Douglas WilsonAuthor · Goodreads
Goodreads

Very fine introduction to an essential doctrine. A lot of people need to get and read this book.

Dec 2014
Arie D.Reviewed in Canada
Amazon
Amazing book in how to resist a tyrannical government

Great book, easy to read, very informative. A must read for every Christian! Very educational on how to formulate a proper Christian response to a tyrannical government in our day and age.

Verified Purchase · Feb 2022
Sydney R.Audible listener
Audible
A must read!

Such an important book for our times! Happy to see it available in audio form. We have purchased and given away many of these books. :-) Our church has used it as a home group study book for our small groups.

Mar 2021
Peter J.Goodreads reader
Goodreads

This book is the best entry point for getting the broad contours of the doctrine from both Scripture and history. ... If you want to know what tyranny is and how it should be dealt with, this is a good place to begin. I am going to give it to my sons and may pass it out to family and friends as well.

Feb 2015
A. PartingtonReviewed in Australia
Amazon
great book

Well worth reading. Luther benefited from this doctrine. Had Prince Fredrick not protected Luther we would not have a Protestant church today

Verified Purchase · Aug 2024
Sara R.Audible listener
Audible
Share this book with everyone!!!

I share this book with everyone and tell them that we should live this out until Christ returns

Apr 2023
JulieGoodreads reader
Goodreads

We as citizens need to know when to submit, and when to stand up. One book that has made an impact on a biblical understanding of our role and responsibility as citizens is “The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates” by Matthew Trewhella.

Apr 2021
Diana C.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
Very good

This book is very good and gives great information regarding citizens and their true liberty. It is refreshing to have a pastor correctly give biblical truth for Christian citizenship. I highly recommend!

Verified Purchase · Sep 2024
AndyAudible listener
Audible
Fantastic message that everybody needs to hear!

Awesome book! Good narration. ... Overall I highly recommend it.

Jun 2021
Forsell G.Goodreads reader
Goodreads

This book re-introduces a way of thinking and acting that inspires people to turn back the tide of tyranny and godlessness. The author is a student of history.

Mar 2018
AllanReviewed in United States
Amazon
An absolute must read!

An absolute must read for all. A key to remaining free and understanding freedom.

Verified Purchase · Jan 2023
Robert C.Audible listener
Audible
Excellent exegesis; well read!

This is a must listen for every Christian confused about our obligations to the State, and where we must disobey.

May 2025
Jason A.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
Only way to stop oppressive government

Great break down of a historical and biblical way to free man from tyrannical government

Verified Purchase · Jul 2022
Robert N.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
We are living in the days this book was written for.

Easy to read, convicting and full of wisdom and history. Pastor Trewella doesn't just teach the principles of activism against tyranny, he is committed to it. Some repetition in the book, but not overall, a great read.

Verified Purchase · Oct 2021
Don in Fort Smith, ARReviewed in United States
Amazon
A new perspective

A new “to me” perspective on the role of local civil authorities.

Verified Purchase · Aug 2021
Robert M.Reviewed in United States
Amazon
Outstanding summary of an important doctrine

Sadly, most Christians have never heard of this doctrine, which was important in a number of Bible incidents and critical to the American Revolution. We need to recapture this doctrine in our day. Trewhella summarizes the doctrine well, providing solid Scriptural basis, its history in Reformed theology, as well as current applications. ...

Verified Purchase · Apr 2021
real health hope bloggerReviewed in United States
Amazon
This book is fascinating and practical

Do not be put off by the title. Once the doctrine is simply stated there’s a release of so much practical wisdom that any reader can actually see their role and needed action in making life right. None quite like this subject

Verified Purchase · Mar 2021
RonjayReviewed in United States
Amazon
AMERICA MUST TAKE A STAND, THIS BOOK GIVES ABUNDANT UNDERSTANDING.

For evil to triumph requires that good people do NOTHING. Learn the spirit of this wonderful book, and do something.

Verified Purchase · Sep 2020
Why this book

You were taught to obey no matter what.

Many Christians were told this is what Romans 13 means.
Then 2020 came.

What Scripture and history teach

All authority comes from God and is limited by God. When a ruler commands what God forbids, lower officials have the duty to refuse.

  1. Romans 13What it really says, and where obedience ends.
  2. The doctrineDefined so plainly you can explain it to anyone.
  3. The historyFrom the Magna Carta to Magdeburg, 1550.
  4. Local officialsWhat a sheriff or county board can do.
  5. Your partHow ordinary believers can stand with them.
Pastor Matthew TrewhellaPastor Matthew Trewhella

The pastor who brought this doctrine back into print.

Founded Mercy Seat Christian Church in the Milwaukee area in 1988. Husband to Clara and father of eleven. He wrote this book so the next time a ruler overreaches, the people of God will know what to do.

400years
The first book written solely on this doctrine in over 400 years.

The last ones came from pastors in the 1500s who faced rulers turning on the church. Then the teaching went quiet, and few Christians today have ever heard it. This book puts it back in your hands.

The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates

Get the book. Get the bonuses free.

  • The bookPaperback, Kindle or audiobook. 12 short chapters.
  • When to Obey, When to RefuseVideo lessons on the Introduction and Chapters 1 and 2, taught by Pastor Matt
    Free
  • Illustrated companion notesKey points of each chapter, ready to print
    Free
  • The 5-minute filmThe easiest way to explain the doctrine to someone else
    Free
Choose your format

Outside the US: Amazon Canada, UK, Australia.

Get the free video lessons →

Buy two. One for you, one for your sheriff.

Many readers hand extra copies to their pastor, sheriff and county board.

Questions.

Does it call for riots or revolution?

No. It is about lower officials lawfully refusing unjust orders to protect the people under their care.

Is it only for Americans?

No. The doctrine comes from Scripture. Readers in Canada, Australia and Italy have left five-star reviews.

The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates

Over 150,000 copies sold. Get yours.

Read it before you need it.

4.8 out of 5 from 742 Amazon ratings

Also on Kindle · Audible

Pastor Matthew TrewhellaNot ready to buy?

Start free: When to Obey, When to Refuse

Pastor Matt teaches the Introduction and Chapters 1 and 2 on video.

You will also get Pastor Matt's weekly newsletter. Unsubscribe anytime.

4.8 ★ on Amazon150,000+ sold
Get the Book →