in hacknied expressions of
loyalty employed in reference to majesty, is due, the defence and
support of rulers in the due exercise of their power--a support even
extended to the making of every lawful sacrifice on behalf of the
interests of truth and righteousness, devolves on all placed under a
Christian government. And in order that such subjection be properly
maintained, a salutary fear, not merely of the wrath of man, but of the
wrath of God, and a conscientious regard to duty, must be cherished.
"Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for
conscience' sake."[275] When the fear of the sanction annexed to the
transgression of any law is the only motive to obedience, that obedience
cannot be genuine. Not merely the lower, but also the higher principles
of our nature, must lead to that course of conduct which is estimable in
the sight of men, and what is more important by far, acceptable to God.
The moral being whom the fear of punishment alone would deter from doing
evil, by threats would be equally hindered, and perhaps more so, from
doing good. And he whom a sense of duty would not urge to right conduct,
would not always be led to it by a view of the consequences resulting
from doing evil. They who love the law of God will obey it, because of
his holy will; and his authority will be recognised in the commands of
those who rule for him, according to its manifestation, not less than in
the express dictates of his word. All the institutions of God, and all
the means which he has appointed for the promotion of his own glory and
for the good of men, are dear to his people; and while they seek to
declare the glory of God, and endeavour to promote the best interests of
men, at once they will fear and hate to sin.

The people of God, however, have not always, nay have seldom, in His
providence, been privileged to live under civil governments, sanctioned
by His high authority. In their unfavourable circumstances how ought
they to conduct themselves towards those who rule over them? Ought they
to join themselves with the people of the lands wherein they dwell, in
supporting thrones of iniquity? or, are they to uphold the authority of
those who rule not for God? Since the enjoyment of outward
privileges--such as the protection of life and character, and property,
brings under obligations, which may be acknowledged, without the
recognition of any attribute of a government, nay even with a dissent
from i