Concerning Unlimited Submiſſion and Non-Reſiſtance to the
Higher Powers.
- Let every ſoul be ſubject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be, are ordained of God.
- Whoſoever therefore reſiſteth the power, reſiſteth the ordinance of God: and they that reſiſt, ſhall receive to themſelves damnation.
- For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou ſhalt have praiſe of the ſame:
- For he is the miniſter of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the ſword in vain: for he is the miniſter of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doth evil.
- Wherefore ye muſt needs be ſubject, not only for wrath, but alſo for conſcience ſake.
- For, for this cauſe pay you tribute alſo: for they are God's miniſters, attending continually upon this very thing.
- Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; cuſtom, to whom cuſtom; fear, to whom fear; honour, to whom honour.
IT is evident that the affair of civil government may properly fall under a moral and religious conſideration, at leaſt ſo far forth as it relates to the general nature and end of magiſtracy, and to the grounds and extent of that ſubmiſſion which perſons of a private character, ought to yield to thoſe who are veſted with
authority.
