The subject of civil government is, in all its aspects, of no little importance. It occupies a large share of men's thoughts in all enlivened countries, and awakens, just now, the liveliest concern.
This is not strange; for its influence is felt in every department of human action. It has to do with the peace, the order, the material prosperity of the commonwealth; with the rights and liberties of the citizens, and exercises no inconsiderable influence upon the interests of morals and religion.
In all these respects, in the last particularly, the institution of civil government is deserving the attention of the Christian and of the Christian minister.
Moreover, the inspired writers take occasion, not unfrequently, to state, sometimes summarily in the doctrinal form, and sometimes in narrative and in detail, leading principles by which the intelligent and faithful may be directed as to the part which they are to take in setting up, in administering, or in supporting political constitutions.
Hence, no apology is necessary in entering upon such an examination as that which is now proposed. The topic itself is of great moment, and the light and authority of God's Word are before us.
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